The tech world is abuzz with the new 5G standard, which seems to be taking its time. As I recall, 4G was hot on the tail of 3G. The 5G standard must be something super special if it’s taken so long to implement, but is 5G really going to knock your socks off?

My guess: Probably.

As I understand it, not only is the 5G standard faster than 4G, but it involves some super-duper technology that caches data on the cell tower. The effect is that information is sent and and received must faster than 4G, or so I’ve been lead to believe.

Some concern has been raised about the 5G signal, which I’ve read has a potential to be dangerous. And I’ve also read that the signal is safe. I don’t recall whether any alarms were raised about cell phone signals back in the day, but it seems someone is always concerned. If people in the 5G testing areas start having children with three heads, then yes, I’d be concerned.

To use the 5G signal, you must have a smartphone with a 5G radio. I know Samsung has a 5G version of its flagship Galaxy S10 phone available now, though I don’t see the point in buying the device simply for 5G access. If 5G is available in your area, go for it. Otherwise, you may find yourself investing in a device that looks for a 5G signal and won’t find one over its lifespan.

Remember that a cell phone is good for about 2 years (hence the standard contract length). If 5G isn’t coming to your area in the next 2 years, don’t bother paying for the technology.

In a few years, I predict 5G will be everywhere. Everyone’s phone will have it. We’ll all be giddy about the speeds. That is, until 6G comes out. Supposedly, its speeds will be so fast the data is sent to your phone before you even request it — or so I’ve read.