5G is the latest networking technology for connected devices, promising speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, and 10 times faster than home broadband.  

It's not all about speed, though: a more ubiquitous and responsive (between 1ms and 10ms, compared to 4G's 40-60ms) network are also planned, enabling connected devices like autonomous vehicles, drones and even artificial limbs.

That network will be enabled by new infrastructure, which will need to be installed across the country over the next few years. This technology will operate at a higher frequency than existing networks, enabling the speed and bandwidth of 5G but limiting its range - requiring many more base stations to cover the same area as a single 3G or 4G mast.  

5G phones won't be launched until next year, and the infrastructure isn't expected to be in place before 2020 at the earliest, although there are plenty of trials taking place, as well as a spectrum bidding war.