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Understanding the Confusion Behind “5GE”
Mobile users often wonder: what is 5GE? Despite its name, 5GE is not actually 5G. The term was introduced to describe a level of advanced 4G LTE technology, often marketed as “5G Evolution.”
In reality, when you see “5GE” on your phone, you’re still connected to LTE just an enhanced version that offers faster speeds than standard 4G, but not the true performance and capabilities of 5G networks.
Explore the Truth Behind 5G Technology
Before upgrading your network, make sure you understand what you’re getting. Learn the real difference between 5G and 5GE and how it impacts your IoT performance.
What is 5GE Really Mean?
The “5GE” label indicates that a phone is using advanced LTE features such as carrier aggregation, 4×4 MIMO, and 256-QAM modulation. These upgrades make LTE connections faster and more efficient, often delivering speeds comparable to entry-level 5G.
However, this does not mean that the device is connected to a genuine 5G network. Instead, 5GE means it’s still 4G LTE, just optimised for higher performance.
For businesses depending on reliable global coverage, solutions like our IoT coverage services provide consistent connectivity without the confusion of misleading network terms.
5GE vs. 5G: Key Differences
Although 5GE may actually be faster than true 5G service in some limited cases (depending on network conditions), there are important differences:
5GE (Advanced LTE)
Built on existing 4G LTE infrastructure
Enhanced speeds with advanced LTE features
Not officially part of the 5G standard
5G
New infrastructure with ultra-low latency
Supports massive IoT deployments and faster data rates
Designed for next-generation applications such as smart cities and autonomous vehicles
If your operations rely on machine-to-machine communication, deploying secure M2M SIM card ensures devices remain connected reliably, regardless of whether the underlying network is LTE or 5G.
The Impact of 5G on the Internet of Things
5G is transforming the IoT ecosystem with faster speeds, lower latency, and stronger device connectivity. It enables real-time communication between sensors, machines, and systems making technologies like autonomous vehicles and smart factories more efficient.
By supporting massive device connections and reliable data exchange, 5G unlocks new IoT use cases across industries. But not all “5G” labels deliver the same performance.
Why the Confusion Matters
For consumers, the confusion around 5GE might simply mean misunderstanding network icons. But for businesses planning IoT and enterprise connectivity, clarity matters. Deploying the right technology ensures devices operate seamlessly, securely, and at the required performance level.
Making Sense of Connectivity for Business
While “5GE” is more of a branding term than a new technology, it highlights the importance of understanding the difference between LTE, enhanced LTE, and true 5G.
For organisations seeking reliable connections for IoT, fleet management, or automation, the priority should always be secure, scalable solutions that go beyond marketing labels.
Discover how we can help build future-ready IoT networks by exploring our full portfolio of connectivity solutions for business and enterprise.
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