As we slowly edge closer to the full commercial launch of 5G, companies are speeding up tests for 5G implementation as well.
This time Verizon has made the headlines for completing the first 5G data transmission on a smartphone. They used a Moto Z3 for the test and tested several things including web browsing and video calls.
The test was conducted in partnership with Samsung Electronics America and Qualcomm Technologies Inc and was done on a 3GPP 5G New Radio (NR) network.
The Moto Z3 in question had a special 5G Moto mod attached, which will be made available to everyone sometime in 2019.
Verizon tested the connection on its own 28 GHz spectrum, with a Samsung built 5G New Radio solution and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X50 modem for the data transfer. QTM052 mmWave antenna modules were used for the test.
Not The First?
You might recall Oppo and Xiaomi making similar announcements in the past, however, all they’ve tested is the 5G connection, they haven’t actually sent or received mobile data through the Find X and Mi Mix 3 respectively.
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They didn’t share anything other than a screenshot showing the phone running 5G. Verizon, on the other hand, tested it out with a Moto Z3 in real life applications, making video calls, browsing the internet and more.
Company Statements
Shakil Barkat, VC Global Product Development Motorola said,
This test is also one step closer to getting upgraded speed and connectivity that will affect all aspects of our daily lives. 5G will be a transformational leap in wireless, and we are excited to be a part of it.
Bill Stone, VC Technology Development and Planning at Verizon made some bold claims while commenting on the 5G test saying,
In the past two years, we have consistently lead the world in 5G, including launching the world’s first commercial 5G service last month. We will be the first to offer a 5G upgradeable smartphone on our network in 2019.
In any case, 2019 will be a major year for 5G development and implementation, with Verizon shaping up to be a major contender in the race to be the first to commercially launch 5G.
