What Is 5G: Everything You Need To Know About 5G - Telstra

Publisher: Telstra Name: What is 5G? Discover Everything You Need to Know About 5G Technology - Telstra Copyrighted By: Telstra Family Friendly: Yes Language: English Skip to main content Telstra Personal Home Page Search Telstra Telstra

• Search Telstra

Telstra

• Search Telstra

Telstra

• Personal
• Business
• Enterprise

Search Telstra

• Language
• Sign in

Telstra

You are entering quote mode

Any items currently in your cart will be cleared when you enter quote mode.

Cancel Enter quote mode

You are leaving quote mode

Any items currently in your cart will be cleared when you leave quote mode.

Cancel Exit quote mode

1. Telstra personal
2. Coverage & Networks

Payment method not available

This item can’t be purchased outright. However, it can be purchased on an HRO. OK

Payment option selected not available

This item is not available on an HRO. Please purchase it outright to continue. OK

Payment option selected not available

OK

Not eligible for upfront plans

The customer can’t purchase an upfront plan. OK

Not eligible for bundle plans

The customer can’t purchase a bundle plan. OK OK

Your service is not eligible

This service is not eligible for the action you’ve requested. OK

Can’t add to cart

You can’t sell this product or service via an outbound sale right now. Tell the customer they can visit telstra.com, call us or visit a store to make this purchase. Ok

You can’t sell this product or service

You can view this page, but you can’t sell this product or service via an outbound sale right now. Tell the customer they can visit telstra.com, call us or visit a store to make this purchase Cancel Ok

Cart limit reached

You can have a maximum of [maxLimitMessage] in one order. You already have [existingCartMessage].You can add [addMoreMessage] now. If you'd like to add more, start a new order after you check out. Close Press Escape to close this dialog.

Looks like this offer isn’t available

This offer has expired or is currently unavailable.

OK Press Escape to close this dialog. 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. Check your address

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.

See 5G coverage map

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.

See 5G phones and devices

An eligible Telstra plan

Choose a plan that includes access to the 5G network.

See mobile plans

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.

See coverage maps

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

Read more on 5G and EME

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 phones

Ready to try 5G? Check out our range of top selling 5G devices

See all 5G phones

• 

  iPhone 17e

  iPhone 17e features a beautiful 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display, the fast and capable A19 chip, all-day battery life and 256GB starting storage.

  Shop iPhone 17e
• Launch deal

  

  Galaxy S26 Ultra Launch deal

  Experience advanced performance with intelligent Galaxy AI, a 6.9-inch QHD+ screen with Privacy Display, a fast-charging battery, 200MP Wide camera and upgraded ProVisual Engine.

  Shop Galaxy S26 Ultra
• Launch deal

  

  Galaxy S26+ Launch deal

  Seize the day with intuitive Galaxy AI. Elevate gaming and multitasking with a 6.7-inch display, plus ProScaler for vivid graphics. Unleash creativity with a bright 50MP Wide camera Enjoy fast performance with an updated processor and self-optimising battery.

  Shop Galaxy S26+
• Launch deal

  

  Galaxy S26 Launch deal

  Make everyday moments effortless with Galaxy AI. Immerse yourself in a 6.3-inch FHD+ display, with ProScaler for high-quality graphics. Unleash creativity with a vivid 50MP Wide camera. Enjoy fast performance with an updated processor and self-optimising battery.

  Shop Galaxy S26
• Launch deal

  

  Google Pixel 10a Launch deal

  Meet Google Pixel 10a. Brilliant photography, helpful AI and a durable design. It’s got all the essentials, plus features you’ll love.

  Shop Google Pixel 10a

• 

  iPhone 17 Pro Max

  Features a 6.9-inch display, aluminium unibody design, dual sided ceramic shield, A19 Pro chip, all 48MP rear cameras and up to 37 hours video playback. 

  Shop iPhone 17 Pro Max

• 

  iPhone 17 Pro

  Features a 6.3-inch display, aluminium unibody design, dual-sided ceramic shield, A19 Pro chip, 48MP rear cameras and up to 31 hours video playback. 

  Shop iPhone 17 Pro

• 

  iPhone Air

  New to the range. The Air is the thinnest iPhone ever. eSIM only. Features a 6.5-inch screen, ultra-light titanium frame, an A19 Pro chip and up to 27 hours video playback. 

  Shop iPhone Air

• 

  iPhone 17

  Features a 6.3-inch screen with ceramic shield 2, 48MP rear cameras and a centre stage front camera, an A19 chip, up to 27 hours video playback and comes in five colours.

  Shop iPhone 17

• 

  Galaxy S25 FE

  All the best features without the big price. Enjoy a pro-grade 50MP camera, long-lasting battery with Super Fast Charging, and a slim yet strong design.  

  Shop Galaxy S25 FE

• 

  Galaxy A17 5G

  Enjoy a tough and immersive 6.7-inch display screen, Gemini Live features like Circle to Search, 50MP main camera and a slimmer, distinctive design.

  Shop Galaxy A17 5G

• 

  Pixel 10

  Escape the ordinary with Google Pixel 10. It has Pixel’s most powerful chip, an incredible camera, and Gemini built in to help supercharge your productivity and creativity.

  Shop Pixel 10

• 

  Pixel 10 Pro

  Pixel 10 Pro is the ultimate Pixel experience, featuring advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality, impeccable design and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip.

  Shop Pixel 10 Pro

• 

  Pixel 10 Pro XL

  Pixel 10 Pro XL is the ultimate Pixel experience with a powerful battery, advanced AI with Gemini, unbelievable camera quality and the next-gen Google Tensor G5 chip.

  Shop Pixel 10 Pro XL
• Special deals

  

  Galaxy Z Fold7 Special deals

  A pocket-friendly powerhouse that folds open to full size. The Galaxy Z Fold7 is the thinnest and lightest Fold ever, boasts the Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 cover screen and is the latest model to feature Samsung’s Galaxy AI technology.

  Shop Galaxy Z Fold7
• Special deals

  

  Galaxy Z Flip7 Special deals

  A pocket-friendly powerhouse that flips open to full size. The Galaxy Z Flip7 is slimmer than the previous model yet has a bigger screen. The Flip7 is the latest model to feature Samsung’s Galaxy AI technology.

  Shop Galaxy Z Flip7

• 

  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.

  Shop Galaxy S25 Edge

All battery claims depend on network configuration and many other factors; actual results will vary. Battery has limited recharge cycles and may eventually need to be replaced. Battery life and charge cycles vary by use and settings. Visit Apple’s battery information page and Apple's iPhone-specific battery page for more information.

Got an ABN?

Get 5G for your business Get mobiles on a plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Will 5G replace Wi-Fi?

5G and Wi-Fi are different technologies. They will complement each other as new features and improvements are included.

Will 5G replace the nbn network?

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

What does 5G stand for?

5G stands for fifth generation and is the next major wave of mobile network technology. 

Close dialog

Register your interest in the latest Apple news for the chance to win 1 million Telstra Plus points. 

Eligible Telstra customers who are Telstra Plus members can redeem points at the Rewards Store on the latest devices, gadgets and more.

First name Last name Email Mobile phone

Existing Telstra customer?

Yes No

Are you interested in personal or business use?

Personal Business

Register your interest by 15 October 2020. Full Terms and Conditions can be found here.

Close mmWave enabled devices dialog

mmWave enabled devices

mmWave technology is currently available with the Google Pixel 6 Pro and Google Pixel 7 Pro on a 5G-ready mobile plan and the Telstra 5G Wi-Fi Pro mobile broadband device on a 5G-ready data plan. Stay tuned as more devices start to support this technology in the future.

Get mmWave on Google Pixel 6 Pro Get mmWave on Telstra 5G Wi-Fi Pro

Rather get in touch? Let's get you connected

Online help & support

Find answers to your frequently asked questions.

Get help

Get help in My Telstra

View your services, pay your bill, troubleshoot tech issues, contact us via chat and much more.

My Telstra

Reach out to us

We're here to answer your questions.

Contact us

At Telstra we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original, and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands, waterways, and sky country across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.