Apple 'will launch first 5G-enabled iPhone in 2020' that can download a 4k movie in seconds in partnership with Intel

Fifth generation mobile internet promises speeds 10 to 20 times faster than now
First wave of 5G phones will debut in February at the Mobile World Congress
Apple will wait one year after some companies launch for technology to mature
Source familiar with the matter says that their current prototype overheats

Published: 06:12 EST, 6 November 2018 | Updated: 06:12 EST, 6 November 2018

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Apple has plans to release their first 5G iPhone in 2020 with the help of Intel, according to a source with knowledge of the plans.

While some Android manufacturers are choosing to release their first set of devices next year, the tech giant is said to be waiting until the technology matures.

Superfast 'fifth generation' (5G) mobile internet promises download and browsing speeds 10 to 20 times faster than we have now.

The first 5G devices, which should arrive in 2019, promise significantly quicker download speeds than current 3G and 4G networks.

That includes 4K films downloading to smartphones in seconds, better gaming quality, faster browsing and better video quality.

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According to a source that is familiar with Apple's plans, the first 5G-enabled iPhone will be launched in 2020. The tech company is working in partnership with Intel

Apple plans to use Intel's modem chip to increase speed and efficiency but the source says that Apple has been unhappy with Intel.

The firm's prototype modem has been overheating due to the strain put on the modem chips, which also affects battery life and device performance.

In spite of this, the source believes that Apple is unlikely to go back to old partner Qualcomm as they are confident that Intel will have enough time to perfect the device before it is released.

The first wave of 5G phones are expected to debut next February at the Mobile World Congress show.

Android phones from such manufacturers as Oppo, Huawei, and Xiaomi will contain 5G modem chips, all made by Qualcomm.

5G can operate at a number of different frequencies. Higher frequencies known as 'millimetre waves' may offer faster data rates of about 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) or more - but they cover much narrower ranges and are far more easily blocked by buildings, windows, and even people walking in front of them.

While some Android manufacturers are choosing to release their first set of devices next year, the tech giant are said to be waiting until the technology matures

Industry expert Ben Wood, of CCS Insight, said that the story is 'very consistent' with his own predictions.

'Apple's decision to use Intel as a partner for the chips that connect to the mobile networks means that it is unlikely to have a 5G iPhone until 2020,' Wood told The Sun.

'Apple is fortunate that the strength of its brand and the exceptional levels of customer loyalty it commands probably mean this won't be an issue, but operators trying to kick start 5G will be frustrated – particularly in markets such as the US and China.'

Major network operators such as AT&T and T-Mobile have been buying up technologies and bits of the radio spectrum to allow for small-scale 5G roll-outs.

For example, AT&T have recently announced that a dozen cities in the US would get 5G coverage next year but as Webb points out they have provided no information on what frequency bands or how base stations will be arranged to provide the signal.

Mail Online has contacted Apple for comment.

WHAT WILL 5G LET YOU DO?

Advances in mobile data networks in the next decade could bring a number of benefits, according to the White House.

Mobile phones and tablets could download full length HD movies in less than 5 seconds, 100 times faster than 4G (six minutes) and 25,000 times faster than 3G (26 hours).

Emergency response crews and hospital based doctors could get live, real-time video and sensor data from police vehicles, ambulances, and drones, along with patient vitals and medical records—all before the patient arrives at the hospital door.

Semi- or fully-autonomous vehicles could communicate with the outside world and with each other to improve travel efficiency and safety.

Factories could be equipped with always-connected smart manufacturing equipment that self-diagnose and repair themselves before they break.

Gigabit-speed wireless broadband could become available in businesses, public transportation stations, stadiums, campuses, schools, malls, parks, and other public spaces.

Virtual reality training environments and simulators could allow entry-level workers to develop and demonstrate skills in high-demand fields like solar energy installation—anytime, from anywhere.