According to Ericsson’s June 2026 report*, 5G technology is expanding rapidly and is expected to account for two-thirds of total mobile subscriptions by the end of 2031. The same report reveals that the global number of 5G subscriptions exceeded 3.1 billion in the first quarter of 2026, with 162 million new subscriptions added in that quarter alone. In Türkiye, the number of 5G subscribers reached 44.5 million within four months of the service’s launch on April 1, 2026.**
At a time when the average smartphone lifespan is three to four years, 5G infrastructure is expected to become standard nationwide over the next two to three years. In this landscape, 4G devices risk losing value on the second-hand market before reaching the end of their physical lifespan. By contrast, next-generation 5G-enabled models offer users long-term savings through theoretically 10 to 100 times higher data speeds than 4G and improved energy efficiency. Emphasizing that 5G means more than just faster internet and opens the door to a new digital era, İlkay Cihaner, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board at General Mobile, addressed common misconceptions about 5G devices.
The market share of 5G continues to grow. By the end of 2031, global 5G subscriptions are projected to reach 6.4 billion, representing two-thirds of all mobile subscriptions.* According to figures shared by Türkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, on August 6, 2026, the number of 5G subscribers in Türkiye rose from 21 million on the first day of service to 44.5 million within four months, bringing the share of the population subscribed to 5G to more than half.** However, taking advantage of the speeds offered by a subscription depends on whether the user's device supports 5G.
As the transition to 5G continues, the shutdown of older-generation networks (2G and 3G) is also underway worldwide. Although no shutdown schedule has been announced for these networks in Türkiye, operators’ new investments and next-generation services are increasingly focused on 5G.
4G Devices Are Rapidly Losing Value
Rapid changes in mobile communications technology make it essential for consumers to consider not only today’s needs but also the network infrastructure requirements of the coming years when purchasing a smartphone. One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing a new device is its ability to adapt to evolving network standards throughout its lifespan.
With 5G services now active in Türkiye, consumers who purchase a 4G-enabled device cannot benefit from 5G speeds, even if their mobile plans include 5G access. While 4G models face the risk of losing value more quickly in the second-hand market and being unable to take advantage of next-generation services offering high speeds and low latency, investing in a future-ready 5G device provides users with a longer-term usage horizon.
It Is Possible to Use Both 4G and 5G on a Single Device
Investing in a 5G-enabled device does not require users to abandon their current usage habits. Through the network settings menu available on all smartphones, users can switch their preferred connection type to 4G within seconds.
Consumers can purchase a 5G-enabled device and continue using it on a 4G network whenever they choose, maintaining their current battery performance and usage habits. When they are in areas with 5G coverage, they can switch to the next-generation network with a single tap, without incurring the additional cost of purchasing another device.
5G Technology Can Deliver Up to 100 Times Faster Download Speeds
Network connectivity standards are just as important as processing power and battery capacity when upgrading a smartphone. İlkay Cihaner, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board at General Mobile, explained:
“Users who choose 5G-enabled devices can access theoretically 10 to 100 times faster download speeds than 4G in areas with coverage. As the infrastructure expands, uninterrupted connectivity will be possible even in crowded venues such as stadiums and concert halls. From live streaming to online gaming, millisecond-level low latency will enable a much smoother user experience across a wide range of applications.”
Next-Generation Processors Extend Battery Life
Cihaner emphasized that the assumption that 5G devices consume excessive amounts of battery power and data is incorrect.
“When a smartphone is set to 4G mode, its built-in 5G modem components become inactive. Consequently, battery consumption and data usage remain at exactly the same level as those of a standard 4G device. In addition, next-generation 5G processors consume significantly less energy and generate less heat during general use than older-generation processors. Therefore, we can say that 5G devices deliver both efficiency and speed,” he continued.
“We Are Working to Make 5G Accessible to Everyone”
Highlighting that 5G means more than faster internet and opens the door to a new digital era alongside artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and cloud technologies, İlkay Cihaner said:
“5G will drive transformation across numerous sectors, from healthcare and education to manufacturing and finance, presenting significant opportunities for Türkiye as well. Thanks to its low latency and high data capacity, 5G creates a broad range of applications, from remote healthcare services and smart city solutions to industrial automation and educational technologies.
“At General Mobile, we aim to become one of the key players in the 5G transformation through the products and technologies we develop. We will continue our efforts with the vision of making 5G accessible to everyone by combining our domestic manufacturing capabilities with global experience.”
General Mobile continues to expand its product portfolio with the goal of making 5G-enabled smartphones available at accessible price points.
Launched on August 25, 2026, the company’s GM 26 One 5G is available at prices starting from TRY 12,000. Its key features include a 5G-enabled processor, a 6.75-inch 120Hz display, a 6,000mAh battery, and the Android 16 operating system.
Banner Inside Article - 728x90
