Reliance Jio is India’s biggest telecom operator. Recently, they have rolled out a 5.5G network. OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R are India’s first phones to support 5.5G network services. If a question like this – “what is 5.5G?” pops into your mind, you’ve come to the right place. This article will discuss everything you need to know about 5.5G. So, without further ado, let’s deep dive into it.
The 5.5G network is not new. It has already been deployed in China and is also available in Europe and the Middle East. You’ve heard a lot about 5G services, but if you’ve heard about 5.5G services for the first time, don’t worry! You’re not alone. Many people are still unaware of it.
So, let’s first understand what 5.5G is.
Also read: Jio 5.5G Vs 5G: How It’s Going To Benefit Users?
What is 5.5G?
5.5G is also known as 5G-advanced or 5GA, which is the upgraded version of the 5G network. It acts as the bridge between 5G and 6G, just like how 4G LTE (4.5G) was introduced prior to the launch of 5G. Devices which are 5.5G compatible will display a 5GA icon on the notification bar. This network comes with 3CC – Component Carrier Aggregation – 3CC. 5.5G is built on advanced technology, which is the 3GPP Release 18 Standard.
The 5.5G network is impressive because it offers up to 10Gbps download speed and 1Gbps upload speed. On the flip side, the 5.5G network offers 1Gbps download speed. Therefore, it provides improved online gaming and 4K streaming.
The low latency and congestion problems we face in the 5G network are resolved in 5.5G as it introduces the new frequency bands. Due to the non-terrestrial network, this network offers more steady performance through satellite and expands coverage in areas with low network coverage.
Generally, the shift from 5G to 5.5G is automatic. It does not need manual configuration.
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Impressive Features of 5.5G
Here are some key features that the 5.5G network offers.
Faster Speed
As we have discussed above, 5G gives you a 1Gbps download speed, whereas 5.5G offers up to 10Gbps download speed. It means you can download the full movie in a few seconds. It can even stream 8K videos without buffering.
Improved Coverage
Due to non-terrestrial network integration, it offers better connectivity in rural and dense areas where consistent connectivity is a major task.
Reduced Latency
Latency = the total time data takes to travel back and forth from a server to your device. 5.5G network cuts this lag, so online gaming and live streaming experience will be better.
Energy Efficiency
This network depends on 0 Bit O Watt cutting-edge technology. This technology lets the network shut down whenever traffic is low. Therefore, it will consume low power.
More Device Connection
5.5G offers improved speed, so it can connect to more devices without internet speed compromise. Therefore, the 5.5G network is better for organizations, cities, and homes.
Advanced Al/ML
The network supports AI/ML for network optimization, better resource management, and maintenance.
Improved Network Slicing
It offers better network slicing than 5G. Network slicing means the network will be sliced into the sub-networks for various tasks and needs.
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5.5G Vs. 5G – Comparision
| Key Feature | 5G | 5.5G |
| Upload Speed | Up to 1Gbps | Up to 1Gbps (improved) |
| Download Speed | Up to 1Gbps | Up to 10Gbps |
| Latency | Low | Lower for smoother performance |
| Coverage | Limited (in low network area) | Better because of satellite integration |
| Device Connections | Multiple device connection | More devices without lag |
| Technology | 3GPP Release 15-17 standards | 3GPP Release 18 standards |
| Gaming Performance | Smooth cloud gaming | Improved. Minimal lag |
| Transition | Manual device upgrade | Automatic for compatible devices |
| Streaming | 4K | 8K without buffering |
| Energy Efficiency | More power consumption | Reduced power consumption because of 0 Bit 0 Watt technology |
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Smartphones Supporting 5.5G Network
Currently, not so many smartphones support the 5.5G network. However, here we have listed a few smartphones that support it.
- OPPO Find X7 (Only in China)
- OnePlus 13
- VIVO X Fold 3
- OnePlus 13R
- iQOO 12
- HONOR Magic 6 Series (Only in China)
- OPPO Find X7 Ultra (Only in China)
5.5G Supported Devices in India: Will Your Phone Work?
This is the most crucial question for consumers. Unfortunately, most current 5G phones will not be able to harness the full potential of 5.5G.
5.5G requires new hardware, specifically a modem that is compliant with 3GPP Release 18 standards.
- Chipsets are Key: The new wave of 5.5G-ready devices will be powered by next-generation chipsets. For example, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X75 Modem-RF System and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300 are among the first to be marketed as “5G-Advanced-ready.”
- When to Expect Devices: The first smartphones and connected devices featuring these chips are expected to launch globally and in India starting in late 2024 and becoming more common throughout 2025.
- How to Check: When buying a new phone in the future, look for branding like “5G-Advanced Ready” or “5.5G Compatible” in the specifications.
When Can We Expect 5.5G in India?
Based on global timelines and the progress of Indian telcos, here is a realistic projection:
- 2024: Extensive trials and network preparation by Jio and Airtel.
- 2025-2026: A phased commercial rollout is likely, starting in major metropolitan cities. Initially, it might be focused on enterprise and industrial use cases.
- 2027 onwards: Wider availability for consumers as the device ecosystem grows and network coverage expands.
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Concluding Remarks
In summary, slowly, people are becoming aware of the this new network. However, its extensive adoption will take time as it has its own challenges. Noteworthy equipment upgrades are required if you want to upgrade from 5G to 5.5G. Network carriers must also deal with security, energy efficiency, and spectrum availability issues. You will also need a seasoned and skilled workforce to upgrade from 5G to 5.5G. Of course, by preparing yourself for how to deal with this issue, you can be ready for the 6G entry.
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Hopefully, by reading the above discussion, you understood what is 5.5G, its key features, and how it differs from 5G. If you still have any queries, write to us in the comment section below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is 5.5G the same as 6G?
No. 5.5G (5G-Advanced) is an enhancement of 5G. 6G is the next full generation of wireless technology, expected around 2030, which will bring even more revolutionary changes.
Q2: Will I need a new SIM card for 5.5G?
It’s highly unlikely. Just as you could use your 4G SIM for 5G, your existing 5G-ready SIM card should work with 5.5G networks. The compatibility lies within your device and the network itself.
Q3: What is the main benefit of 5.5G for a regular user?
For the average user, the most noticeable benefits will be incredibly stable and fast connectivity for buffer-free 8K streaming, lag-free competitive online gaming, and the seamless functioning of future applications like mainstream augmented reality (AR) glasses.
Q4: Will 5.5G replace 5G?
Not immediately. 5.5G will be built on top of the existing 5G infrastructure. For many years, both technologies will coexist, with your device automatically connecting to the best available network
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