The consumer-facing 5G value proposition today is fairly straightforward: faster speeds, lower latency, better reliability, enhanced security. But, as it stands, 5G isn’t being sold to consumers. Consumers are buying compatible handsets and getting 5G where it’s available. On balance, operators may be realizing operational benefits because 5G is a more efficient way to deliver bits of data over RF spectrum, but that gain is a drop in the bucket compared to the billions spent annually building the networks. While there’s talk of more nuanced consumer-facing service plans that could command a premium—a tier for mobile gamers is often mentioned but by no means in-market—consumers aren’t going to be the path to 5G ROI.
