Switch to Malta #1 Fastest Mobile Network
Ookla, renowned for internet testing and analysis worldwide, has acknowledged Epic’s dedication to providing an outstanding network experience. Stephen Bye, President and CEO of Ookla, stated, “Following a thorough examination of Speedtest results from consumers, Epic has earned the distinction of being named Malta’s Fastest Mobile Network in Ookla’s Speedtest Awards. This recognition is granted to mobile network operators exhibiting exceptional speed and performance compared to other prominent networks in the Q3-Q4 2023 market.”
What is 5G?
5G is the next generation of mobile technology. A 5G network offers higher speeds and has a higher capacity, meaning it can accommodate more network traffic as well as transmit data with super low delay which supports applications requiring a real-time connection. This results in a better user experience when it comes to streaming high-definition video and playing online games requiring low latency (delay). We are excited about 5G because it will facilitate better ways of life by allowing many more devices simultaneously connected to the network than previous technologies. With 5G we’re enabling new applications to support smart urban planning and buildings, entertainment, transport, health services, too.
E-Health
The health sector will see significant improvements in technology and services. New remote healthcare services mean patients can be treated or monitored directly without leaving their homes, particularly for chronic illnesses.
Entertainment
We can enjoy smooth streaming of TV shows or movies and play games on the go, on our mobile phone or tablet, in Ultra High Definition. 5G will bring other high-quality immersive and interactive experiences such as augmented reality and virtual reality.
Smart Buildings
With devices connected directly to sensors and meters, we can optimise energy management use in buildings. This will much better protect our environment by improved monitoring of weather conditions as well as natural disasters, such as fires, floods and so on.
Safety
With 5G technology, we can check out destinations before we travel, for example. First responders will soon be able to report back information about their condition while in the field.
5G and health safety
Fully aware of the concerns that consumers have about wireless communications and their possible health implications, 5G has been designed so that there is no cause for concern.
Official studies carried out by the World Health Organization (WHO) assessing the potential health risks mobile phones pose, have concluded that “no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use.” For more information click here.
This is also supported by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP), an international body recognised by the MCA that has developed guidelines around electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions and frequencies. You can read more here.
The MCA continually regulates and audits the EMF emissions to ensure Epic is compliant with these EMF threshold levels. Through these audits, we know that the absolute majority of EMF measurements taken in Malta are well below 1% of the ICNIRP limits. For more information click here.
FAQs
What is 5G?
5G is the new mobile network technology that operates at incredibly fast speeds which can reach up to 1.5Gbps! It supports multiple devices without affecting the stability of your connection in the slightest. With almost zero response delay, everything is done instantly and smoothly via 5G in real-time.
With 5G, the average download speed is expected to be 10 times faster at 1.5Gbps, with peak throughputs reaching 2Gbps.
Epic 5G network makes use of intelligent antennas intended to transmit in the direction of the devices connecting to them so as there is less radio wave dispersion. This does not only reduce energy consumption but also improves the network capacity.
Are there any additional charges when using 5G?
There is no additional charge to use the Epic 5G network. You will need to be on one of our selected pay monthly plans, in an area covered by 5G and using a 5G compatible device.
What do I need to access the Epic 5G network?
The Epic 5G network will be available to Epic Pay Monthly on selected plans and phone models.
What you will need is to:
- Be on an Epic pay monthly plan that supports 5G.
- Own a 5G enabled device.
- Have the latest software installed on your phone.
- For Android OS devices, 5G is listed as a preferred network automatically. For other 5G devices, “5G” must be selected in the preferred network list.
When and where will 5G be available to Customers?
We first launched 5G in the Sliema area as of the 26th November 2021, and gradually opening up to the rest of the Maltese islands. Customers on selected plans that have 5G capable devices will be able to experience 5G speeds, however if you are on a different plan, have a 5G capable device and interested in experiencing 5G speeds, please reach out to our team here and you will be guided accordingly.
Which Epic Pay Monthly plans support 5G?
| Consumer | Business |
|
Epic Standard Epic Extra Epic Premium |
Epic Business Essential Epic Business Premium Epic Business Pro Epic Business Access Epic Business Extreme |
Which phone models are certified with the Epic 5G network?
At launch, Xiaomi and OnePlus 5G devices are supported and we’re working with other device manufacturers to extend the portfolio further as soon as possible.
How do I activate 5G on an iPhone?
Go to Settings > Mobile Service > Choose epic sim > Voice & Data > Select 5G Auto.
How do I activate 5G on an Android?
Activation of 5G on Xiaomi & OnePlus Android devices is done automatically and does not require any action. We are working with other device manufacturers to extend the portfolio further as soon as possible.
Can I use 5G abroad?
Yes, 5G is available while roaming abroad. For the full list of countries kindly check here.
Can I deactivate 5G if I don’t want to use it?
If you are using a compatible device and do not want access to the 5G network, you have the option of deactivating your access through your device menu (Network Settings).
Can you share some more technical details about 5G?
5G uses makes use of radio waves to send and receive information between devices, similar to those used for 4G and Wi-Fi. The average download speed on a 4G network varies between 30Mbit/s and 100Mbit/s with peak throughputs of 225Mbps. This strongly depends on several factors, such as:
- the number of users connected to the same radio base station site,
- distance from the radio base station site
- mobile phone capabilities.
With 5G, the average download speed is expected to be 10 times faster with peak throughputs reaching 2Gbps.
Epic 5G network makes use of intelligent antennas intended to transmit in the direction of the devices connecting to them so as there is less radio wave dispersion. This does not only reduce energy consumption but also improves the network capacity.
We’ll release more news on 5G developments as they happen. Give us a follow on social media to stay updated.
Is 5G safe for our health?
Mobile phones communicate by transmitting radio waves to a network of fixed antennas called base stations. Radiofrequency waves are electromagnetic fields that do not break chemical bonds or cause ionization in the human body, unlike X-rays or gamma rays. The World Health Organisation confirms that over the last 20 years, “a large number of studies have been performed to assess whether mobile phones pose a potential health risk. To date, no adverse health effects have been established as being caused by mobile phone use.”
Epic is working closely with the Malta Communications Authority and other regulators to ensure that everything is up to standard and that all WHO guidelines are followed for everyone’s safety.
For more information click here. (Electromagnetic fields and public health: mobile phones (who.int))
What exposure levels of electromagnetic fields are considered safe?
The exposure limits of radiofrequency for mobile phone users are given in terms of Specific Absorption Rate (known as SAR), which is the rate of radiofrequency energy absorbed by the body when using mobile phones. You can contact your phone’s manufacturer or refer to its user manual to learn more about the SAR value of your mobile phone.