What is 5G
5G Explained
5G is the newest mobile network technology and has the potential to make our lives smarter, safer, and more efficient.
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What is 5G?
5th generation of mobile network technology
2G brought us SMS and picture messaging.
3G was all about mobile internet.
4G made streaming and sharing part of everyday life.
5G stands for fifth generation and is the next leap forward in mobile network technology.
Downloads that take seconds, not minutes. Seamless streaming. Real-time gaming. A future where devices are interconnected, and immersive experiences are the norm.
The latest evolution of 5G is here
We’re continuing to evolve our 5G network in the form of millimetre-wave technology, otherwise known as mmWave.
mmWave takes 5G to a whole new level. With around 10 times the capacity of existing 5G, it delivers fast speeds even in the most crowded places.
We’ve rolled out sites across selected areas of all capital cities and more than 400 cities and towns across Australia with more sites with more sites planned over the next few years.
Enjoy the best 5G has to offer with selected mmWave enabled devices on Australia’s best 5G network.
What do I need to get 5G?
You’ll need a 5G device and a 5G-ready mobile or data plan to connect to Telstra 5G. You’ll also need to be in an area that has 5G coverage.
5G coverage
5G is now rolling out in selected areas. In non-5G coverage areas, you'll automatically switch to our 4G or 3G. Check our coverage map to find out more.
A 5G-ready phone or device
If you’re ready to try 5G, take a look at our range of 5G-ready phones and devices.
Benefits of 5G
Right now, Telstra 4G delivers a faster data experience in more places than any other mobile network. 5G builds on the foundation of 4G with innovative new technologies, base station upgrades, and greater access to spectrum bandwidth.
Downloading is faster with 5G
You can download movies, music, audiobooks and apps faster than ever before on Telstra 5G. Even when you’re on the go. Uploads are more efficient on 5G too – get your files and posts where they need to be, fast.
5G has more capacity. What does that mean?
Smartphones and the booming Internet of Things mean that data traffic on Telstra’s network is growing around 30% each year.
The network is like a busy traffic-filled freeway. 5G relieves the congestion by adding lanes in the form of spectrum bandwidth. This increased capacity leads to faster data speeds and better performance – especially in crowded areas.
Low latency. Leave the lag behind
Latency is all about response times. It’s the delay between transmitting and processing instructions on network devices. Low latency equals better performance with closer to real time response – great news for gamers, driverless cars and mission-critical industrial automation.
Your 5G questions answered
Where is 5G available?
We have rolled out more than 4900 5G sites across the country. Right now, we’re in selected areas of more than 400 cities and regional towns across Australia – more than any other network.
How will 5G be different from 4G?
4G made it possible for us to stream and download on the go.
5G builds on this capability and takes it further. But 5G will do more than just improve our mobile phone experience.
The increased capacity and lower latency of 5G has the potential to revolutionise the way we live – enabling technologies like smart cities and self-driving cars.
Is 5G safe?
We've done extensive EME testing on our 5G and have found the EME levels to be similar to 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi.
The EME levels measured were found to be well below the safety limits, and in many cases, over a thousand times lower. We continually monitor our network and the ACMA conduct EME compliance audits. Independent health authorities require us to meet their safety standard so that you can use this technology safely
What happens to 3G and 4G?
Don't panic. 3G and 4G are not disappearing anytime soon. If you don't have a 5G phone, that's fine. You can still access super-fast and extensive 4G coverage on the Telstra network until you’re ready for a new 5G device.
The 3G network will be decommissioned in 2024.
Explore the latest 5G phones
See all 5G phonesReady to try 5G? Check out our range of top selling 5G devices
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Galaxy S23 FE
Elevate your shots to epic. Capture your memories and elevate your shots with 50MP rear camera.
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Pixel 8 Pro
Introducing Pixel 8 Pro, the all-pro phone engineered by Google. It's sleek and sophisticated, with powerful performance, a super dependable battery and the best Pixel Camera yet.
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Pixel 8
Meet Pixel 8. The helpful phone engineered by Google, with an amazing camera, powerful security and a super dependable battery.
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Galaxy Z Flip5
The powerful new full-sized phone that folds into your pocket. Shoot hands free from all kinds of angles with Flex Mode.
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Galaxy Z Fold5
Samsung’s lightest Fold yet. Unfold your screen for an immersive 7.6-inch display that fits in the palm of your hands.
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Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The all-new Galaxy S23 Ultra lets you capture ultra-fine detail with the 200MP camera, play hard with next-level performance and create with the Mighty S Pen.
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Samsung Galaxy S23+
The new Galaxy S23+ with 50MP camera, plus-sized display and epic gaming performance lets you create epic, shareable moments.
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Samsung Galaxy S23
The new Galaxy S23 is your access pass to an epic camera, epic performance and epic display.
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Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
With a triple-lens floating camera design, Octa-core chipset and powerful battery, the Galaxy A54 5G is the definition of awesome.
Frequently Asked Questions
5G and Wi-Fi are different technologies. They will complement each other as new features and improvements are included.
No, the volumes of data on fixed networks exceed those on mobile by more than 50 times, and while 5G will create a number of options for customers who choose to go wireless, it won’t be for everyone
5G stands for fifth generation and is the next major wave of mobile network technology.