5G expands to more-affordable phones as chip prices fall

In all, 42% of smartphones shipped to retailers around the world in 2021 were 5G-capable, according to Counterpoint. — AFP

5G is increasingly available in cheaper phones, making faster mobile service affordable to more lower-income consumers around the world, market researchers say.

The key to this broader access to 5G service is the falling price of the specialised semiconductors needed for 5G phones, a trend that analysts expect to continue over the next two years. The lower price makes it economically feasible to put the chips in a wider range of phones.