Global leap to 4G and 5G would cut off phone access for millions of vulnerable people.

  • Telecom companies aim to profit from the 2G-to-5G transition as governments worldwide face pressure to free up mobile spectrum.
  • Vietnam is the latest country to shut down 2G by offering free 4G phones to the poor.
  • India and South Africa have expressed concern that the strategy would cut off phone access for millions of vulnerable people.
    • Noel_Skum@sh.itjust.works
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      2 days ago

      The “g” stands for generation. So it’s the 5th iteration of the technology versus the 2nd iteration. Whilst there are many improvements (speed, capacity, security etc) there are some negatives. (I believe mainly to do with signal penetration - i.e. getting a signal in basements, stone wall houses, being behind objects etc.)

      Where I’m currently staying I have: 2G, edge, 4G and 5G signals available.

    • Allero@lemmy.today
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      2 days ago

      Obviously Internet speed and call quality, plus there are many good technical changes under the hood, such as proper isolation of calls etc.

      • Excigma@lemmy.world
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        1 day ago

        I think it handles congestion better and saves energy for the cell tower. It’s a good choice for crowded city centres, near university campuses and train stations where many people frequent

        • WhyJiffie@sh.itjust.works
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          1 day ago

          Already unable to make use of 4G’s capabilities, virtually nobody feels the speed of 5G. and I’m not an average user, I’m making use of my uncapped home internet!

          • Revan343@lemmy.ca
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            1 day ago

            I would probably notice the difference if I had cellular home internet, so I could see the use there. Oh my phone, yeah, the only way I can tell is by watching for the icon to change