In-vehicle digital technology is becoming more and more prevalent, especially connected features that utilize onboard broadband cellular networks. Now, Ford is beginning to migrate to a 5G network, so what’s GM doing?
2023 Ford Super Duty
For those readers who may be unaware, Ford just unveiled the all-new 2023 Ford Super Duty, debuting a fresh rival for the Chevy Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD. Among the many updates and features on offer is embedded 5G Wi-Fi for upwards of 10 devices, making the 2023 Ford Super Duty the first pickup in the U.S. to feature embedded 5G capability.
So, what’s the difference? Well, 5G is a fifth-generation data technology that promises higher speeds than the previous fourth-generation 4G technology, which is important as more and more in-vehicle features rely on a broadband connection to function properly, such as navigation and mapping as well as over-the-air updates. Add in greater data usage from various passenger devices, such as smartphones and tablets, and the need for an ultra-fast cellular connection becomes even more important.
With all that in mind, it becomes obvious why Ford is now migrating to 5G. Which begs the question – what’s GM doing about its cellular networks?
For now, GM has yet to offer embedded 5G in its vehicles, but we do know that The General plans to migrate to a 5G network by the end of 2023.
Notably, GM was the first to market with in-vehicle 4G network integration and embedded Wi-Fi hotspots, partnering with AT&T to equip 2015 model-year Buick, Cadillac, Chevy, and GMC models in the U.S. and Canada with embedded 4G LTE mobile broadband capabilities.
In 2016, OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi usage increased 200 percent among Chevy owners, prompting the Bow Tie brand to lift the data cap for customers and announce an unlimited OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi data plan. The plan originally cost $20 per month.
We’ll keep an eye on the latest developments when it comes to GM’s network tech, so make sure to subscribe to GM Authority for more GM technology news and around-the-clock GM news coverage.
Comments
I hope, for people like myself the 5G modem hardware is in the Android Automotive w/ GAS system in the 22+ trucks and a software update will enable the feature.
That would be quite the kick to the peanuts if we get shafted.
From the FCC docs, the new Gen 12 modems are LTE only, and limited at that: Qualcomm Snapdragon 415M, 150 Mbps LTE. That modem would be equivalent to an iPhone 6.
However, note that the latest telematics modules are placed in very easy to access locations, the previous gen truck modems can be removed completely without tools. The main thing with upgradeability would be the ability of antennas to support the bands that the carriers are going to use down the road.
I doubt a software update can add 5g channels.
How about making a vehicle that transports people? I don’t love the idea of Zuckerberg knowing my every location, how fast I drive or when I need an oil change.
Don’t most people just use their phone for data? I know a vehicle can do a better antenna, but is it worth the cost of a second data plan? I’ve never had a data plan for my vehicles. I never got minutes either back in the day. Phone has always been cheaper for both minutes and data.
You probably don’t have kids. The main use of in-vehicle Wi-Fi is keeping the kids quiet and not fighting with stuff on tablets. With the new Google Automotive, you have to have it for features like built-in Google Maps.
It’s not that much anymore, it’s $20/month for full Wi-Fi, $15/month apps only.
Maybe that’s our society’s problem. Unplug those kids and teach them trip songs
I just use it for live traffic and speed limit data honestly. If I had kids they can look out the window like I did.
Or? Hand them books to read.
Did Joe cure car sickness?
Give the kids tablets to shut them up. Or, be parents and actually interact with your own children. Or is not asking too much?
Who cares? Hopefully GM is focused on fixing their current problems!
Its a shame that GM will not offer reto fitted onstar , it would be so easy to swap out boxes instead of forcing customers into new cars when the old 3G network were shut down
Have worked in that industry, 5G is not that available and if you do cross into 5G, expect a very short 5G experience. 5G is not like 3G/4G signaling when it comes to distance from modem to radio tower.
Gotta love marketing… People will buy anything in a commercial and love it. First to market is never a sound product…
Good luck Ford with connectivity as you leave the city.
5G is backwards compatible to 4G LTE and most 5G is just LTE on steroids. True 5G is years away still except in large cities.
For a vehicle 5G versus 4G doesn’t really matter than much. Unless you’re in the city you’ll only get 4G anyways. 5G signals don’t travel far.
I had over 1500 OnStar minutes that were expiring in our 2018 Tahoe and they would not let me purchase more minutes and offered nothing for them. Not at all impressed with GM or OnStar. I would at least expect a discount to apply to my ongoing monthly OnStar subscription.
5g has been out for how long now?
OEMs sure are slow adopters.