Machine Learning Could Save 5G

Unlike the previous wireless networks – 3G, 4G, and LTE – that have all successfully launched and done their part in creating faster, more reliable cellular connections, 5G networks that wireless companies are trying their hardest to roll out to customers are having a bit more trouble. The radio access networks that 5G connections work off of rely on two emerging technologies that haven't worked out all the kinks yet. One of these technologies, referred to as millimeter waves, which are spectrums that broadcast at frequencies between 30 and 300 gigahertz, compared to the bands below 6 GHz that were used for mobile devices in the past. Their name comes from their size, which is much smaller (about 1-10 mm) than the current radio waves that cater to smartphones that measure tens of centimeters in length. The other new tech that 5G networks need to work to their potential is known as massive MIMO.