Infographic on Survey Results of 5G-Exclusive Smartphones Customers Want

5G is characterized by network speeds approximately 20 times faster than existing networks. 74% of respondents expressed expectations for 5G services. In particular, 70% of respondents answered that they are looking forward to a 5G-dedicated smartphone capable of ‘multimedia usability’ that allows seamless viewing of high-definition video and live broadcasts, ▲excellent picture quality and sound, and ▲ ‘multi-party conferencing,’ ‘telemedicine,’ and ‘remote driving’ based on connectivity.

Meanwhile, 5G smartphones are met with concerns about first-generation products as much as with expectations. 65% were worried about increased battery consumption when using 5G services, and 45% were concerned about overheating. Concerns regarding durability (30%) and design (19%) also accounted for a significant proportion.

This is evidence that the key to future 5G-only smartphones lies in securing system stability based on superior batteries and heat dissipation devices compared to existing ones. The challenge for the design is to maintain a slim and lightweight form factor while incorporating various components that enable 5G services.

In a survey released late last year, market research firm Strategy Analytics predicted that while the global smartphone market is experiencing negative growth, the market will return to growth in 2023 as 5G-only devices become available primarily in the premium market starting this year.

Summary of Key Research Results

LG Electronics plans to begin supplying 5G-exclusive smartphones this year, starting with markets with high premium demand such as Korea, the U.S., and Europe.

"Based on solid fundamentals and stability, we will lead the 5G smartphone market by introducing high-quality products that customers want," said Ma Chang-min, Executive Vice President and Head of the MC Product Strategy Group at LG Electronics' MC Business Division.