Although 3G and 5G use different technologies to send and receive data, they operate at some of the same frequencies. But according to AT&T, they can’t coexist on those frequencies — the airwaves assigned to 3G customers cannot also be used for 5G customers .
Read moreDoes 5G work on all phones?
As a result, if you want to take advantage of 5G speeds, you will need to invest in a 5G phone. Android has a large selection of phones compatible with the 5G network including the Samsung Galaxy series, LG has a 5G phone, Moto Z4, Z3 and Z2 have 5G Moto Mod and there are a few others.
Read moreDo I need a new phone for 5G?
The growth of 5G networks doesn’t mean 4G is going away. Mobile carriers will use existing 4G LTE networks to provide their customers’ cell service well into the next decade. 5G networks will work with 4G — not outright replace it. The upshot is that 5G-capable cell phones will still use 4G technology .
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