5G on airplanes could mean the end of Airplane Mode

Airplane mode on Android phone stock photo 2

Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority
  • The EU is deciding whether to let airplane passengers use data and make calls while in the air.
  • The ruling would allow airlines to provide 5G connectivity instead of requiring passengers to pay for slow Wi-Fi.
  • If agreed upon, members of the EU would need to make 5G on airplanes ready by June 30, 2023.

EU regulators are saying enough is enough with the slow-as-a-turtle Wi-Fi you get on flights. If a new measure goes into affect, airline passengers in the EU could be allowed to ditch Airplane Mode and use 5G to stream content, access apps, and even make phone calls.

According to Gizmodo, the European Commission is currently debating a decision that could make Airplane Mode a relic of the past. The proposal would reportedly allow airlines to provide 5G technology instead of requiring passengers to pay for Wi-Fi or data. This means flyers would be free to use their devices how they want.

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