5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology and promises to bring faster internet speeds, lower latency, and improved connectivity. However, there are also concerns about the potential negative effects of 5G on health and the environment.

The rollout of 5G networks is ongoing in various parts of the world, and the technology is still in the early stages of adoption. This provides an opportunity to explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of 5G and what it means for consumers.

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  • The State of 5G in May 2019
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On one hand, 5G has the potential to bring significant benefits to consumers. Some of these benefits include faster download and upload speeds, lower latency, and improved overall connectivity . This could lead to improved streaming experiences, more reliable connections, and better support for technologies such as virtual and augmented reality .

In addition, 5G is expected to enable new applications and services in areas such as health, transportation, and education. On the other hand, there are concerns about the potential negative effects of 5G on health and the environment.

The higher frequency of 5G signals compared to previous generations of wireless technology means that more energy is absorbed by human bodies and the environment. There are also concerns about the security of 5G networks, particularly in the context of the increasing importance of and dependence on technology in our daily lives and the potential for malicious and bad actors to exploit vulnerabilities in these networks.

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Given these considerations, the rollout of 5G networks and the adoption of 5G technology by consumers is an ongoing and evolving process. As 5G technology becomes more widely available, it will be important for consumers to be informed about its benefits and drawbacks, and to make informed decisions about whether and how to use it.

5G and its impact on Consumers’ Health

The impact of 5G technology on health and the environment is a topic of ongoing debate and research.

On the health front, some concerns have been raised about the potential health effects of 5G technology, particularly with regard to the non-ionizing radiofrequency (RF) radiation that is emitted by 5G towers and devices.

Some studies have suggested that exposure to this type of radiation may be associated with an increased risk of cancer, reproductive problems, and other health issues . It is important to note that the evidence for these effects is still limited and inconclusive.

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5G And the Environment

In terms of the environment, there are concerns about the energy consumption and carbon footprint of 5G networks. 5G networks require more infrastructure and equipment than previous generations of wireless technology. This can and will increase energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, the production of 5G devices and equipment is energy-intensive and can contribute to the depletion of natural resources and the creation of electronic waste.

It is important to note that the impact of 5G technology on health and the environment is still an active area of research, and many questions remain unanswered. Some experts believe that the benefits of 5G, such as improved communication and increased efficiency, will ultimately outweigh any negative impacts, while others believe that more research and regulatory action is needed to ensure that 5G is deployed in a safe and sustainable manner.

Overall, the impact of 5G technology on health and the environment is a complex and multi-faceted issue, and it will be important to continue to carefully monitor and evaluate the effects of 5G as the technology continues to evolve and be deployed on a wider scale.

5G in Africa

The situation regarding 5G in Africa is still in its early stages. The deployment of 5G technology on the continent is currently limited, with only a few countries have begun to roll out 5G networks. We have since seen MTN , Vodacom , and Safaricom among other top players in the continent rolling out their 5G networks.

  • List of African Countries Testing 5G Technology
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  • Safaricom 5G Network Is Officially Live In Kenya: All You Need to Know

However, there is significant interest in technology, and many African countries are exploring the potential benefits of 5G for their citizens and businesses.

One challenge for 5G in Africa is the lack of infrastructure and investment in the telecommunications sector. Building out 5G networks requires significant investment in infrastructure, and many African countries are facing challenges in securing the funding needed to deploy 5G.

Additionally, there are concerns about the availability of affordable 5G-enabled devices for consumers, particularly in less developed regions of the continent. That is changing however with players like Infinix, TECNO, Vivo, and even Xiaomi slowly but steadily building their 5G device portfolio.

  • Infinix Zero 5G Unveiled in Nigeria: Specs, Price and Availability
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Despite these challenges, there is significant potential for 5G to bring benefits to Africa. The technology has the potential to improve connectivity, support the development of new applications and services, and drive economic growth. As the rollout of 5G continues, it will be important to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of the technology and to ensure that it is deployed in a way that benefits the people and businesses of Africa.

Recently, we got word that Starlink is set to launch in Kenya and a bunch of other African markets this year. That still attracts a pretty penny and with the 5G rollout costing an arm and a leg as well, it’ll be interesting to see how both ventures fair on.

  • How to get Starlink in Nigeria
  • Starlink’s Availability in Africa: List of Countries We Can Expect a Launch in 2023
  • How to Sign up to Receive Starlink Availability in Your Country

Oh, the 5G Promises!

5G technology is expected to play a major role in the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) . IoT refers to the growing network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances, and other items embedded with electronics, software, and connectivity, allowing them to collect and exchange data.

5G’s higher speed, lower latency, and increased capacity compared to previous generations of wireless technology make it well-suited for supporting the growth of IoT. The technology is expected to enable the connection of billions of devices and objects, creating new opportunities for automation, data collection and analysis, and the creation of new products and services.

In addition to IoT, 5G is expected to bring benefits to a range of other industries and applications, including:

  1. Virtual and Augmented Reality: 5G ‘s low latency and high speed make it ideal for supporting virtual and augmented reality applications, allowing users to experience these technologies with greater realism and interactivity.
  2. Healthcare : 5G has the potential to support telemedicine and remote patient monitoring, enabling healthcare professionals to provide care and treatment from a distance.
  3. Transportation : 5G has the potential to support the development of self-driving cars, connected vehicles, and smart transportation systems, enabling safer, more efficient, and more sustainable mobility.
  4. Industrial automation : 5G has the potential to support the development of Industry 4.0, enabling the automation of factories and other industrial processes, and increasing productivity and efficiency.
  5. Gaming : 5G has the potential to support cloud gaming, enabling users to play high-quality games on mobile devices without the need for a console or high-end computer.

These are just a few examples of the many potential applications and benefits of 5G technology, which is expected to bring significant changes and improvements to a range of industries and areas of our lives.

So what does that Promise look like in 2023?

Today, the promise of 5G technology is starting to become a reality. A growing number of countries and regions around the world have made significant strides toward the deployment of 5G networks, and more and more 5G-enabled devices are becoming available for consumers. However, the rollout of 5G technology is still in its early stages, and many challenges and limitations remain.

In terms of the benefits of 5G, some early adopters of the technology are already reporting improvements in speed, capacity, and latency compared to previous generations of wireless technology . For example, 5G is enabling faster download and upload speeds, making it possible to stream video and use other bandwidth-intensive applications with greater ease. Additionally, the increased capacity of 5G networks is making it possible to connect more devices and objects to the network, supporting the growth of the Internet of Things.

Overall, while the promise of 5G technology is becoming a reality in some ways, there is still much work to be done to fully realize the potential of 5G. As the rollout of 5G continues, it will be important to carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of the technology and to ensure that it is deployed in a way that benefits society as a whole.

I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.

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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.

This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.

This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.

READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda

“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”

Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”

The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:

  • SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
  • Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
  • Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
  • Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.

Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.

The key launches included:

  • CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
  • MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
  • MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
  • TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.

Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”

“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”

Laury Bai, TECNO CMO

Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”

James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek

CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography

TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.

Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer

The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”

Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud

The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.

TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability

To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”

Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK

Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.

MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers

The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.

World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14

Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.

TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.

Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm

In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.

The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series

TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.

TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future

Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.

Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.

With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.

Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]

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