The evolution of mobile technology
Mobile technologies then services have evolved steadily over the historical three periods and continue to do so. Ireland’s first ‘2G’ moveable network was launch in 1993. Back then, users were limited to voice calls, but they could also send and receive text messages for a few years later. The first 3G networks appeared in the early 2000s, the first mobile Internet services. They were followed in the early 2010s by 4G networks that offered faster mobile internet services.
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What is 5G?
5G is the next cohort of cellular technology.
Over the next decade, 5G networks should roll out across Europe and most of the world. 5G will work with other technologies to offer faster data speeds and connectivity. 5G is also a technology that would enable connectivity between wireless devices. This should support the expected enormous growth in wireless devices, such as B. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, other technologies may also be suitable depending on the application. These advances are expect to improve existing consumer services and lead to innovative new services such as intelligent healthcare and connected cars.
Cellular technologies and radio frequencies are becoming increasingly standardized around the world. Because of this, we can travel almost anywhere from Ireland and still use our Irish mobile phones – locations change, but the devices and radio frequencies used to deliver mobile services remain essentially the same.
The European Commission has published Often Asked Questions (FAQs) about 5G on its website at ec.Europa. EU
What are technology and service-neutral licenses?
If possible, radio frequencies are allocate in a technology and service-neutral manner, a principle of European law. This means licensees are free to use the radio spectrum as they see fit, provided they comply with the applicable harmonized standards. This gives operators the freedom to continue providing services on existing technologies (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G) and the flexibility to deliver new services on new technologies (e.g., 5G) when they are ready.
What role does ComReg play in 5G?
Radio spectrum is a national resource manage by ComReg following EU law. Certain radio frequency bands are particularly well suit to cellular networks. These bands are usually in high demand, so they are typically award bas on competitive award processes, including auctions.
In Europe, three “pioneer bands” radio frequency bands are marked for future 5G networks – 700 MHz, 3.6 GHz, and 26 GHz.
In June 2017, ComReg awarded new 3.6 GHz licenses to five operators after a spectrum auction. ComReg is also currently discussing a multi-band spectrum allocation to accommodate new appointments in the 700 MHz band and proposes to release new licenses in the 26 GHz band through separate future funding. For more information, see the following ComReg websites: 3.6 GHz Band Spectrum Allocation; 3.6GHz band transition; Proposal for the allocation of multi-band frequencies; and Ireland’s national roadmap for the use of the 700 MHz frequency band.
As part of the management of the national high-frequency resources, ComReg also ensures compliance with the conditions of the licenses and the general permit regarding non-ionizing radiation (NIR).
In addition, ComReg facilitates testing and experimentation with new technologies and services through the use of ComReg’s trial and trial license program.
Roles of other government agencies concerning 5G and non-ionizing radiation
ComReg plays no role concerning non-ionizing radiation (NIR) health effects, occupational exposure to NIR, or planning issues and makes no decisions about the location or installation of telecom towers. Other public bodies handle these matters.