5G Set to Boost Streaming Speeds in Pakistan by Up to Five Times

The rollout of 5G technology in Pakistan is expected to significantly enhance internet performance, with streaming speeds projected to increase by three to five times. This was highlighted by Umar Siddique Raja, Director of Marketing Segments at Zong, during a recent media briefing in Karachi.

According to industry insights, the introduction of 5G will mark a major leap in mobile connectivity, enabling faster downloads, smoother video streaming, and improved overall user experience. However, experts emphasize that actual speeds will vary depending on how much spectrum and bandwidth telecom operators allocate to 5G services.

Limited 5G Devices but Wider Impact Expected

Despite the promising outlook, adoption remains at an early stage. Out of nearly 200 million mobile connections in Pakistan, only around 5 million users currently own 5G-enabled smartphones. This indicates that a large portion of the population is yet to benefit directly from the next-generation network.

However, the impact of 5G is expected to extend beyond just these users. As additional spectrum is introduced, network congestion on existing 4G infrastructure will likely decrease. This means even users without 5G devices could experience better speeds and more stable connections.

Driving Demand for Affordable 5G Smartphones

The expansion of 5G services is also expected to influence the smartphone market. As demand for high-speed connectivity grows, manufacturers may introduce more budget-friendly 5G devices to cater to the Pakistani market.

Currently, the high cost of 5G-enabled smartphones remains a barrier to mass adoption. However, industry experts believe that increased competition and local demand will gradually bring prices down, making the technology more accessible to average consumers.

Bridging the Internet Infrastructure Gap

One of the most significant advantages of 5G lies in its ability to address Pakistan’s internet infrastructure challenges. At present, only about 5 million households have access to fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) connections, with many relying on informal or undocumented service providers.

Through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), 5G can deliver high-speed internet using wireless routers, reducing the need for extensive fibre-optic networks. This could be particularly beneficial in underserved and remote areas where laying fibre infrastructure is costly and time-consuming.

Rising Data Consumption Trends

The need for faster internet is becoming increasingly urgent as data consumption continues to surge across the country. Average daily screen time has reportedly doubled from around three hours to over six hours within the past year, reflecting a growing reliance on digital platforms for entertainment, communication, and work.

With streaming services, online gaming, and social media usage on the rise, 5G is expected to play a crucial role in supporting this digital transformation.

Boost for IT Exports and Freelance Economy

Pakistan’s expanding IT and freelance sectors stand to gain significantly from improved connectivity. Slow internet speeds and high latency have long been challenges for freelancers working with international clients.

With 5G offering faster speeds and lower latency, professionals will be able to engage in real-time collaboration more efficiently. This includes smoother video conferencing, faster file transfers, and improved access to cloud-based tools—key factors for competing in the global digital economy.

Enabling Smart Homes and Smart Cities

Beyond individual users, 5G is expected to drive innovation in smart technologies. The growing use of CCTV systems across Pakistan provides a foundation for advanced smart home solutions, including motion sensors, automated security systems, and connected appliances.

In the long term, 5G could also support the development of smart cities, enabling efficient traffic management, energy optimization, and enhanced public safety systems.

Outlook

As Pakistan moves closer to adopting 5G on a larger scale, the technology promises to transform multiple sectors—from entertainment and communication to business and infrastructure. While challenges such as device affordability and network rollout remain, the potential benefits position 5G as a key driver of the country’s digital future.