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.
Introducing Home internet at 5G speeds
Super-fast, super simple. 5G Home Internet.
Try 5G Home Internet with a great value no lock-in plan. Plus, our latest Telstra 5G Internet Modem 2 included for use.
For new services. Select areas and eligible customers only. Limited number of services available per postcode. If you leave within 24 months, return your modem or pay a $400 non-return fee.
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. 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 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 4G?
Don't panic. 4G is 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.
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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Special offers
Galaxy S25 Edge
Ultra slim with a 6.7-inch screen, 200MP camera, and the same powerful processor as the S25 Ultra.
Eligibility criteria apply.
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Special offers
Google Pixel 9a
Meet Pixel 9a with Gemini, your AI assistant. Plus an incredible camera, all-day bettery, durable design and 7 years of updates from launch so it keeps feeling new.
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Galaxy A36 5G
Capture epic shots with the 12MP front camera, utilise AI for convenience with everyday tasks, and experience a long-lasting battery for powerful performance.
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Galaxy A56 5G
Capture photos and videos day or night with the 50MP wide-angle rear camera that can identify the sky, skin, face, hair and grass and enhance the image quality.
Results may vary depending on shooting conditions. including multiple subjects, being out of focus or moving subjects.
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iPhone 16e
Featuring a 6.1-inch screen with Ceramic Shield front, two in one camera system with 48MP Fusion camera, up to 26 hours playback and safety features.
Battery life varies by use and configuration.
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Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung's most innovative smartphone yet with a huge 200MP camera, lighter frame, and 6.9-inch Quad HD display.
Fees may apply to certain AI features at the end of 2025.
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Galaxy S25+
Discover epic gaming and entertainment on the 6.7-inch Quad HD display with long-lasting performance.
Fees may apply to certain AI features at the end of 2025.
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Galaxy S25
Make life simple with Galaxy AI. Enjoy a 50MP camera and stunning visuals on the 6.2-inch full HD display.
Fees may apply to certain AI features at the end of 2025.
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Galaxy A16 5G
Immersive viewing. Multiple camerasThe expansive 6.7-inch screen with minimised bezels brings every moment to life. Capture memories vividly with a 50MP main camera, and take clear selfies with a 13MP front camera.
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Special offers
Galaxy S24 FE
Create on the goExperience epic features for amazing value with the new Galaxy S24 FE, a smartphone that’s made for you to create and play while you’re on the go.
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Special offer
Google Pixel 9
A phone full of firstsMeet Pixel 9 with Gemini. Engineered by Google, Pixel gets the best of Google's AI first. So that you can take amazing photos and get things done even easier.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
All pro. Pure magicMeet Pixel 9 Pro XL with Gemini. It's the most powerful Pixel yet, with a pro-level camera. And it's engineered by Google, so it gets the best of Googl's AI first.
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Google Pixel 9 Pro
Pixel 9 Pro with Gemini.Engineered by Google and designed for AI, it’s the most powerful Pixel yet. Take pro-level photos and videos with the triple camera system camera and make expert edits.
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Pixel 9 Pro Fold
An epic displayMeet Pixel 9 Pro Fold with Gemini. It has a display of epic proportions and brings you the best of Google's AI first. So you can do more, effortlessly.
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Galaxy Z Fold6
Enjoy a new age of productivity with a tablet-sized dual screen and powerful new features. Elegant floating glass with a dual rail hinge makes for a tough design.
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.
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