When we think back to our pre-pandemic lives, the focus is probably on family gatherings, live concerts, and busy restaurants, not 5G networks. But in the months before COVID-19 forced lockdowns and disruptions around the world, 5G was a hot subject of conversation in digital marketing circles and beyond. The burgeoning technology promised to revolutionize the way users accessed the internet.

Between late 2019 and early 2021, 5G capabilities quietly expanded in the United States. Roughly 16 million Americans subscribed to 5G mobile services in 2020, a number that is expected to rise astronomically over the next four years, according to eMarketer projections. By 2024, more than half of Americans (167.9 million users) are expected to be on 5G.

Canadians in major metropolitan areas also gained access to 5G’s faster downloads, lower latency and better performance through Bell, Rogers, and Telus in 2020. This year, at least three more mobile carriers – Fido, Koodoo, and Virgin – are expected to launch 5G, as well.

What all of this means from a digital marketing perspective is that mobile experiences are about to become more important than ever. Faster mobile internet means consumers will be spending more time on their phones. They will also be increasingly unwilling to stomach sluggish load times. This has major implications for SEO – Google’s upcoming Page Experience Update will home in on page speed even further – and every form of PPC marketing, where mobile ad units will continue to gain priority over desktop.

As a Google Premier Partner digital marketing agency with unique insights on Google’s preferred practices, GrowthEngine Media is equipped to help your business prepare and adjust to the ongoing 5G revolution. Contact us today to discuss mobile-first web design, mobile-friendly user experiences, page speed updates, and more.

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