5G vs. 6G: What’s Next for Mobile Networks?
We’re living in an age where being connected on the go is no longer a luxury - it’s essential. From seamless video calls and streaming services to real-time data transfer and smart cities, mobile networks have become the invisible backbone of our daily lives.
With 5G now being rolled out across the globe, many are already asking: what comes next? Enter 6G, the next frontier in wireless technology, promising even more transformative capabilities than its predecessor.
In this blog, we’ll break down how far 5G has come, what to expect from 6G, and how you can gain the skills to work with the evolving world of mobile networks through Upskilled’s industry-aligned IT courses.
A Quick Refresher: What is 5G?
5G, the fifth generation of wireless technology, was introduced to meet the rising demands of mobile users and the expanding Internet of Things (IoT). Launched commercially in 2019, 5G delivers:
Speeds of up to 10 Gbps
Ultra-low latency (as low as 1 millisecond)
Massive device connectivity
Greater bandwidth and energy efficiency
These improvements enable smoother 4K video streaming, cloud gaming, autonomous vehicles, and real-time remote surgeries. According to recent forecasts, 5G adoption is expected to reach over 5 billion users by 2030, revolutionising industries from manufacturing to healthcare.
How Has 5G Progressed?
Since its rollout, 5G has significantly expanded in coverage and capability:
Global Rollout
Australia has embraced 5G rapidly, with providers like Telstra and Optus launching widespread coverage across capital cities and regional centres.
Enhanced Experiences
5G has improved mobile gaming, streaming, and video conferencing — especially in urban environments with heavy data demands.
Enterprise Use
5G is powering smart factories, connected vehicles, and remote monitoring systems in industries like logistics, construction, and energy.
But as impressive as 5G is, the tech world is already looking ahead…
Enter 6G: The Next Leap in Mobile Connectivity
6G is still in the research and development stage, with commercial rollouts expected around 2030. However, early insights suggest that 6G won’t just be “faster 5G” - it will introduce entirely new dimensions of connectivity.
Here’s what 6G might bring:
Terahertz Frequency Bands
6G will operate in the Terahertz (THz) spectrum, far above the millimetre wave frequencies used in 5G. This enables data rates up to 1 Tbps (terabit per second) - a hundred times faster than 5G.
Real-Time Intelligence
With AI and machine learning embedded into the network itself, 6G will offer dynamic optimisation and predictive analytics in real time — supporting more autonomous decision-making at the edge.
Ultra-Low Latency and High Reliability
Expect sub-millisecond latency and near-instant data response — a game-changer for industries like autonomous transport and critical infrastructure.
Advanced Applications
6G is being designed with futuristic applications in mind:
Holographic communication
Digital twins
Remote surgeries with tactile feedback
Fully immersive AR/VR experiences
What This Means for Australia
With Australia already investing in 6G research via CSIRO and major universities, the next decade will be marked by rapid innovation in telecommunications and data science.
Professionals with networking, cybersecurity, and cloud infrastructure skills will be highly sought after - not just to implement 5G, but to build and manage the systems that will enable 6G.
Want to Work in Mobile Networks? Start Upskilling Now
If you want to be part of the digital wave that’s transforming how we connect and communicate, Upskilled offers flexible, online training that prepares you for real-world IT roles. Explore some of our top picks:
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
Get a solid foundation in networking protocols, wireless technology, and cloud connectivity - perfect for support and technician roles that work with 5G infrastructure.
Diploma of Information Technology - Focus on Advanced Networking
Designed for those who want to take the lead in network architecture, cyber resilience, and complex networking environments. Ideal for aspiring network engineers and architects.
AWS Cloud Architect Bootcamp
As 5G and 6G rely heavily on edge and cloud computing, this course prepares you for designing scalable cloud infrastructure in telecommunications and beyond.
Future-Proofing Your IT Career
The shift from 5G to 6G isn’t just a technical upgrade - it’s a paradigm shift that’s shaping how humans interact with machines, environments, and each other. To stay relevant in this new era, IT professionals must adapt quickly and embrace continuous learning.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialise, Upskilled gives you the flexibility to study on your terms while gaining qualifications that meet industry demand.
The future of mobile networks is unfolding rapidly. While 5G continues to transform industries and daily life, 6G is being built to support even more immersive, intelligent, and high-speed communication.
Now’s the time to start preparing - because tomorrow’s connected world will need professionals who understand both the technology and the strategy behind it.
Explore IT courses at Upskilled and build the skills to lead in the next generation of wireless technology: View all Information Technology Courses
)
)
