This year 2021, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is set to auction off the spectrum in the 26GHz band. Specifically, the 24.25GHz to 27.5GHz frequency range is to be used for 5G purposes. This will expand the spectrum that can be used by various telcos in the market. 

Currently, the band leveraged by Telstra and Optus are based on the 3.6GHz band. Even Vodafone is preparing to launch its service in the same band. 

Limit Set

The allocated limit that is set for the 5G spectrum in the 26GHz band is 1GHz. This proves to be sufficient in deploying millimetre wave (mmWave) 5G networks. This also proves to be enough to support other modern telecommunications services. 

Impact to Telcos

The limit set by ACMA is put in place to ensure that the 26GHz band spectrum will not be monopolised by a single carrier. Rather, multiple carriers will be able to deliver competitive 5G services because they will have the opportunity to acquire enough spectrum. Because of this, consumers can expect excellent 5G services regardless of their provider.

5G vs NBN

There is a great chance that you are already connected to the National Broadband Network (NBN). If not, then perhaps this is the best time for you to consider getting an NBN plan, as long as it is already available in your area. Currently, there are already over eight million households connected to the NBN, enjoying internet connectivity in varying speed tiers. 

You can find and compare the best NBN plans by entering your postcode into our comparison tool.

NBN is already providing a fast internet connection to several of its subscribers. However, with the introduction of 5G technology looming over the horizon, expect that internet speeds will further be improved. As a result, you will have the capability to do more online activities seamlessly without any disruptions. 

Just keep in mind that this doesn’t mean the end of the NBN. Rather, 5G services are meant to complement broadband. Thus, this is still a good time for you to consider subscribing to an NBN plan or even upgrading your existing one.

A Closer Look at the Generations of Wireless Technology

To better understand 5G, it is worthwhile to take a look at the wireless technologies that came before it. 1G or the first generation includes the first analog cellular phones that were released. When the second generation of wireless technology or 2G came around, new features such as SMS and voicemail were already made available in mobile handsets. 

With the third generation, wireless technology came with a higher data transfer rate. As a result of this, mobile web browsing, image sharing, as well as GPS location tracking became possible. From there, the 4G emerged, along with high-speed wireless broadband plans,  which allowed you to enjoy the features that you are using on your phone.

5G is expected to be the fastest and most robust technology when it comes to internet connectivity. As a consumer, this means extremely fast downloads, as well as a much lower lag in connection. This can pave the way for the world to be revolutionized, bringing forth connected cars, smart communities, industrial Internet of Things (IoT), as well as immersive education.

The Bottom Line

The availability of the 5G spectrum paves the way for more and more users to enjoy more stable and robust internet connectivity. Duly allocated frequencies that mitigates a single carrier from monopolising the delivery of 5G services just paves the way for better services for consumers. Rest assured that NBN plans will continue to thrive for a few more years since 5G services are established primarily to provide more options to consumers, not to replace broadband entirely.

If you have further questions or thinking about switching to a better internet plan, you can contact Compare Broadband at 1300 106 571. We are always ready to help you!