5G pioneers expect more innovation

To gauge consumer expectations for 5G, the Ericsson ConsumerLab conducted a survey of more than 30,000 smartphone users in 26 countries, of which more than 4,000 had an active 5G plan. Based on the responses obtained, the study estimates that 300 million consumers could switch to 5G in 2021, with France showing a lower level of interest than other countries. For users who have already experienced 5G, the level of satisfaction depends heavily on indoor coverage, ahead of speed and battery life. An aspect linked to the fact that many experienced 5G for the first time during periods of confinement, according to the authors of the study.

The study also observed certain changes in practices among the first users of 5G. They spend an average of two more hours on cloud gaming apps, and one hour more on virtual reality apps and streaming services than 4G plan holders. In addition, at 20%, access to this network resulted in a drop in Wi-Fi connections. A majority (70%) of these pioneer users deplore the lack of innovative services. They say they are ready to spend 20 to 30% more to access such services, even though two-thirds of the use cases deemed interesting by consumers are not yet available on the market (out of the 27 identified in the ‘study). Among these services, considered attractive, but still in the R&D phase or in the prototype stage, include various uses of 5G in cars, the use of 3D holograms as well as the use of virtual reality in the city. , in games or for shopping.