How long until 5G is available everywhere?

With spectrum auctions expected within the year, Airtel, Vodafone Idea, and Reliance Jio are likely to launch their 5G services in major metros and Tier I cities by the end of the year. According to Ericcson’s Mobility Report published in June 2021, 22 percent smartphone users in India already own 5G-ready handsets.

AT&T said it will start deploying 5G service in the midband C-band spectrum by the end of 2021 . “AT&T plans to deploy the first 40 MHz of the 80 MHz C-band spectrum acquired from the last auction by the end of 2021,” AT&T spokeswoman Tiffany Heikkila said.

5G officially arrived in the UK at the end of May 2019, though only two networks – EE and Vodafone – initially offered 5G plans. But since then, all four major networks now offer 5G in selected areas , although coverage is not widespread just yet.