With the rapid advancement of 5G technology, China's network infrastructure has entered the "fast lane". As of June 2022, the number of 5G base stations in China has surpassed 1.854 million, and the number of 5G mobile users has skyrocketed to 450 million. This not only highlights China's leading position in the global 5G sector but also means that 5G networks have deeply penetrated cities, towns, and even vast rural areas, greatly transforming our online experience.
However, behind the impressive rise of 5G, many consumers have complained that 4G speeds seem to be getting slower. Particularly in crowded places like office buildings, shopping malls, and train stations, the 4G network struggles to support smooth video streaming. Is this a deliberate move by carriers to promote 5G by throttling 4G speeds?
China Mobile has officially responded, explaining that the slowdown of 4G speeds is not due to a single cause but a combination of multiple factors.
Here are some key reasons:
Perceived Speed Difference: After experiencing the ultra-high speeds of 5G, switching back to 4G often results in a noticeable difference. This psychological contrast is not due to the degradation of 4G itself but because our brains are highly sensitive to speed differences.
Increased Network Load: As more people use 4G networks, the number of 4G base stations has not increased proportionally, leading to overloaded base stations. This is especially problematic in densely populated areas, reducing the bandwidth available per device and impacting speeds.
Aging SIM Cards: Many users still use the same SIM cards from their 3G to 4G upgrade. Over time, these cards may become oxidized or aged, leading to poor signal quality and slower speeds. Replacing old SIM cards with new ones can improve signal quality and speed.
Data Throttling: To encourage users to purchase higher-speed plans, some carriers throttle speeds for data usage exceeding the plan's limit. While this strategy can drive users to upgrade, it also causes frustration.
Other factors, such as network congestion and signal interference, can also affect 4G speeds.
Solutions and the Path Forward
Investigate and Address Causes: Users can investigate the potential causes mentioned above and take appropriate actions to resolve them.
Upgrading to 5G is not just about faster speeds but also about embracing a transformative change in lifestyle.
4G speed issues are multifaceted, but by addressing these factors and considering a 5G upgrade, we can all enjoy a better online experience. Operators, phone manufacturers, and users must work together to drive progress in communication technology.
