When wireless carriers begin rolling out their 5G networks, Apple will be ready. A new experimental license granted to Apple by the FCC suggests the Cupertino company is already testing 5G wireless technology.
Known as “millimeter wave,” the new technology promises to introduce faster data transfer speeds to mobile devices. In all likelihood, Apple will ensure its future iPhones will support the technology, which will allow users to access networks with improved bandwidth and throughput up to 10Gb/s.
Here is what the license reads, in part:
Apple Inc. seeks to assess cellular link performance in direct path and multipath environments between base station transmitters and receivers using this spectrum. These assessments will provide engineering data relevant to the operation of devices on wireless carriers’ future 5G networks.
Apple reportedly plans on testing 5G technology at two locations: Milpitas, California and in Cupertino, California. The company isn’t expected to test the technology for longer than 12 months.
Devices like the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8 Plus are already coming with built-in support for Gigabit LTE, which is the next step toward 5G. With two major companies like Samsung and Apple preparing for the next-generation of wireless technology, adoption will hopefully be smooth once networks make the transition.
Considering Apple has beef with Qualcomm right now, the company appears to be doing its due diligence so its future phones will support 5G. Carriers such as T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T are all testing 5G networks in preparation for a launch in the next few years.
