What if 5G reveals its true face. Launched less than three years ago in France, the latest standard for mobile networks did not produce the expected wow effect. Because it caused no real performance differences with 4G, 5G disappointed more than one user. However, the fifth generation of mobile phone technology will have a second chance with the arrival of the second phase of its development.
Standalone 5G, or 5G SA, is so called because it works “standalone” without using existing 4G infrastructure. Relying on a 100% 5G core network, it can finally deliver on the promises mentioned during the commercial launch, namely theoretical throughput multiplied by ten and latency times on the order of a millisecond.
5G SA also offers better spectral efficiency and additional capacity to connect a large number of terminals simultaneously. It also enables separation of network functions. With the principle of “network slicing”, the operator can create virtual networks with service levels adapted to each use case. A key element for critical applications such as emergency communications.
Free forests kindly to your rivals
While 5G SA was expected to take off in 2023 intervenes later, the four operators position themselves on the subject. As usual, Free boasts that it is “ The first operator to offer 5G SA nationwide.”
Iliad’s subsidiary has deployed standalone 5G on 3.5 GHz frequencies on its public network, i.e. 6,950 mobile sites out of more than 20,000 5G sites in service it owns. Free subscribers in covered areas can now take advantage of 5G SA, provided they have a compatible smartphone. To find out, the operator lists online compatible models.
Free takes advantage of 5G SA to launch VoNR (Voice over New Radio). Following VoLTE (Voice over LTE), this new technology improves the voice quality of communications, reduces latency and call setup time, and improves phone battery life.
Orange: start October 10
Apparently surprised by Free’s press release, Orange announced the same day that it would launch its 5G SA solution on October 10. The incumbent operator renamed this offer “5G+ Home”, using the terminology used in the transition from 4G to 4G, its enhanced version.
Orange, which provided 5G SA to its broadcast customers during the Olympics, can now draw on this experience to make the technology available to its individual subscribers. “The 5G+ Home offer will make the Internet experience at home smoother and more efficient, whether to share, simultaneously, the connection with the whole family, watch TV or play online.” advances the operator.
Without waiting for October 10, business customers can now test 5G+ and its advantages – better access to the network, preserved speeds, prioritization of mobile flows. Taclant Free, Orange recalls that it has the largest 5G network at 3.5 GHz in France with 10,401 operational sites.
SFR and Bouygues Telecom are on alert
After Free and Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom should soon communicate on the subject. In December, SFR prided itself on being “ the first operator to provide a 5G SA slicing service for business and in real-world conditions”. A l’occasion d’ football match subsidiary of Altice has demonstrated its ability to implement the future of 5G.
For its part, Bouygues Telecom has reserved 5G SA for the BtoB market for now. To democratize access to private 5G, Bouygues Telecom Entreprises launched in February, the so-called hybrid network proposal allowing you to take advantage of the benefits of a private infrastructure (guaranteed speed, low latency, increased security) while optimizing installation and operational costs. An offering that builds on its core 5G SA network developed with equipment manufacturer Ericsson.