Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission.Learn more.
T-Mobile rolls out the first standalone 5G network
June 20, 2025
T-Mobile remains determined toclaim an edge in 5G serviceover rival US carriers, and that now includes networks dedicated to the new wireless technology.
The provider haslaunchedwhat it says is the “world’s first” standalone 5G network. Instead of piggybacking on existing LTE networks, T-Mobile is now using exclusively 5G systems that, in theory, aren’t held back by legacy components. The carrier is promising numerous improvements, although it may take a while to see the benefits.
To start, the move lets600MHz (low-band) 5Greach “beyond” the mid-band signal, allowing a single cell tower to cover “hundreds” of square miles and reach deeper into buildings. The switch immediately expands the overall 5G footprint by 30%, T-Mobile claimed. You may get 5G service in new areas, and this could improve speeds in areas where signal strength held it back.
The company also touted lower latency, with up to a 40% reduction in lag in tests. Real-world experiences will vary, of course, but this bodes well if you rely on 5G for online gaming, video chats, connected cars, or anything else that depends on instantaneous responses.
You may need a software update to unlock the full potential of standalone 5G networks, but T-Mobile is promising improvements from OnePlus, Qualcomm, and Samsung.
T-Mobile won’t overtake the best performance ofAT&TandVerizon(disclaimer: this author also writes for Verizon-ownedEngadget). Those companies offer millimeter wave 5G that, at its best, delivers gigabit-class download speeds. Standalone 5G should close some of the gap, however, and T-Mobile’s network now has an even larger advantage in terms of sheer coverage. If you’re more interested in simply connecting to 5G than getting the fastest data possible, this is welcome news.
Want to get your hands on a5G T-Mobile smartphone? Here are the best ones available right now.
Is the T-Mobile plan above not right for you? Here are some other carrier deals you should check out.
Thank you for being part of our community. Read ourComment Policybefore posting.
