HTC was one of the first manufacturers to introduce a 5G router at MWC 2019, which was launched in the second quarter of 2019. It uses the new 5G mobile communication standard for fast data transmission and is primarily suitable for home use, but can also be used on the go. One of the main features on the front of the device is a large display. In addition, the HTC 5G hub will later support a cloud VR mode, in which a local player can be omitted.
HTC 5G Hub Specs and Features |
|
| Manufacturer and device name | HTC 5G hub |
| Supported mobile standards | 4G, 5G |
| 5G network modes | Non standalone(NSA) |
| chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Octa-Core with Snapdragon X50 5G modem |
| Maximum 5G data rate | 2.63Gbps Down & 287Mbps Up |
| LTE frequencies | Bands 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 25, 26, 66, 71 |
| mmWave frequencies | between 26 and 28 GHz |
| Sub 6 GHz frequencies | Yes, 5G bands n41, n78 |
| 5G external antenna can be connected | No |
Network Feature (LAN & WiFi) |
|
| WLAN standards | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax |
| Maximum gross data rate with WLAN | HTC did not provide any information |
| Supported WLAN bands | 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 60 GHz |
| WLAN guest access can be installed | ? |
| WLAN encryption standards | WPA, WPA2, WPS |
| Gigabit LAN | yes, 1 port Gigabit Ethernet |
| WAN port | No |
Telephone |
|
| Telephone function | No |
Display |
|
| Size & resolution | 5 inches, HD (720 x 1280 pixels) |
| Touch capable | Yes |
Other features |
|
| IPv6 support; Dual stack | ?? |
| suitable for IPTV | Yes |
| Can be used as a media server | yes (microSD up to 512 GB) |
| USB ports on the back | No |
| Battery for self-sufficient operation | yes (7,660 mAh) |
| Dimension and weight | 129mm x 100mm x 43mm at 340g |
More information |
|
| Datasheet for download (PDF) | " not yet available |
| Manual for download (PDF) | » Available at HTC official site |
| Available at | » https://www.4gltemall.com/ |
Inside the HTC 5G Hub is a Snapdragon 855 Octa-core chipset, a CPU with Octa-core, which is installed in the latest 5G smartphones like the ZTE Axon 10 PRO 5G phone. With the Snapdragon X50 5G modem, the HTC 5G router supports maximum data transfer rates of 2.63 Gbps in the download and up to 287 Mbps in the upload. If no 5G connection prevails, the device can also switch to and work on 4G network. A fallback to older technology such as 3G or 2G can’t be done in the HTC 5G Hub.
Nevertheless, a mobile application is possible. In addition to power from a power outlet, the HTC 5G router also has a built-in battery. The capacity of 7,260 mAh should provide enough energy for a whole day. The battery is charged either with the enclosed power supply, via USB Power Delivery on the 9 Volt rail or with Quick Charge 3.0 via USB.
If the HTC 5G Hub has established a connection to the 5G network, it distributes the signal via WLAN in its environment. Not only the usual IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards are used, but also 802.11ax (WiFi 6). This means that the HTC 5G Hub can span not only the familiar 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies but also a 60 GHz WLAN. However, only a few devices support this new standard so far. Wifi at 60 GHz has very high data transfer rates between the 5G WLAN router and the terminal, provided that there are no obstacles such as walls in the way.
However, the number of maximum connector users is limited. A maximum of 20 clients can connect to the HTC 5G Hub via Wi-Fi. There are four high-speed connections via 802.11ax. This limit can be quickly exceeded today in a household with various technical devices. Other Wifi access points usually support more connections, ie 32 to 64.
Visually, the HTC 5G Hub is more like a Google smart home hub rather than a traditional router. This is mainly due to the integrated touchscreen on the front of the device. This measures 5 inches and displays the contents in HD resolution with 720 x 1,280 pixels. In addition, two speakers for stereo sound and a microphone that pays constant attention to voice commands, are integrated.
The HTC 5G Hub is in the dimensions of 12.9 x 10 x 4.3 cm and weights 340 g and provides 4 GB of RAM and 32 GB of memory. If the internal memory space is insufficient, it can be expanded via microSD card. What exciting are the possibilities that the HTC 5G Hub can stream content to other devices such as a TV and the use of Cloud VR is also planned. A local player can then be omitted in the presentation of VR content. Instead, the data is streamed via cloud computing. This is made possible by the potentially low latencies of 5G. This requires a compatible 5G network that allows mobile edge computing.
The HTC 5G Hub is available for many network providers over the world. Together with the Tariff, you may get cheaper price. If you only get the single HTC 5G Hub, the price would be much higher.
Two months ago, Vodafone released its first wireless router that is compatible with the new mobile communications standard 5G. The new 5G wireless router converts the mobile Internet access into a WLAN hotspot, so that several smartphones, tablets and notebooks can connect with an Internet access. Like the predecessors Vodafone GigaCube and Gigacube Cat19, the manufacturer of the 5G router is also Huawei. The model is officially called Huawei 5G CPE Pro but for Vodafone under the name Vodafone GigaCube 5G.
According to Vodafone official sayings, data transmission rates of up to 2Gbps could be achieved in the 5G mobile network. This concerns the LTE access, over which most customers will initially be predominantly online, especially as 5G availability is still severely limited. The network operator does not reveal how fast users can surf via 5G. A footnote simply states that you can "surf faster" in the first 5G radio cells. Within the home network scores the bolide by using the WiFi-6 technology. This achieves data transfer rates of up to 4.8 GBit/s.
At the heart of the Vodafone GigaCube 5G is the Balong 5000 chipset, which is also used in the Huawei Mate 20 X 5G as a multi-mode modem. If the 5G network is not available, customers can also use the LTE, UMTS and GSM network for Internet access with the Vodafone 5G router.
Vodafone offers the 5G router along with the well-known GigaCube tariffs. “With speeds reaching up to 1Gbps,” said Vodafone at launch, “customers are able to access super-fast speeds and reliable Wi-Fi quickly. GigaCube is ideal for those waiting for their home or business broadband, who need a connection for a second home or who have a home office.”
It added: “The GigaCube can connect up to 64 devices at any one time and has a wifi range of 90 meters. Thanks to the low latency of 5G, this solution is perfect for small businesses who have multiple employees streaming or downloading at the same time. It is also particularly useful for businesses that don’t have a fixed location, or students and house shares.”
Here you can see the general Vodafone 5G GigaCube Specs:
You can also check the Vodafone GigaCube 5G Router Review here: https://www.4gltemall.com/blog/vodafone-gigacube-5g-router-h112-370-review/
The Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi, bring his new 5G smartphones to the customer: Mi 9 Pro 5G. Comparing with the predecessor Xiaomi Mi 9, the new smartphone supports the new 5G mobile communications standard and also brings some interesting functions with it.
New 5G smartphone
The Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro 5G is not the first 5G cell phone from Xiaomi. The first 5G cell phone is Xiaomi Mix 3 5G. Of course, the device also works in older mobile standards such as LTE and 3G. As introduced, Xiaomi Mi 9 Pro 5G is to sport 30W Super Fast Wireless Charging technology. The device has already received TENAA certification which revealed some key specifications. The Mi Pro 5G cell phone will have a 6.39-inch display while running on Snapdragon 855 Plus SoC. The phone will feature up to 12GB RAM with up to 512GB internal storage along with a 4,000mAh battery.
Super Charge 30W Wireless Technology
Especially interesting is the charging function. The new Xiaomi 5G phone is the first smartphone that can be charged with 30 watts. The highlight of this event was Xiaomi’s Mi Charge Turbo technology, of course. Xiaomi claims that Mi Charge Turbo is the world’s first 30W wireless charging solution. With this, users can wirelessly charge a 4,000mAh battery phone from 0% to 50% in just 25 minutes, and up to 100% in just 70 minutes. This pitches the wireless charging solution to be higher than a lot of current generation wired charging solutions. The specifics of the working of this technology are not very clear at this stage since the presentation and source are in Chinese. Thus, the device is expected to be one of the fastest charged smartphones in the market despite large 4,000 mAh battery. In addition to wirelessly charging the smartphone, it can also charge other devices.
So far, it was only possible to buy the smartphones and other devices of the bustling manufacturer on gray imports or Chinese online shops. But the company wants to change that soon. Because it has announced that it intends to distribute its smartphones on many other markets officially.
Mi 9 Pro 5G Availability and Price
Xiaomi has not shared any launch and available details about the Mi Pro 5G. But a recent leak indicates that the company is pretty close to launching the smartphone. And the Xiaomi Mi 9 pro 5G price is not yet known, but considering Xiaomi style, it’s expected to be better than Huawei 5G smartphone Mate 20 X 5G and ZTE Axon 10 Pro 5G.
Vodafone is the first operator in Germany to provide 5G service. To help users enjoy 5G service, Vodafone also presented the 5G data tariff with a compatible 5G router, which is named "Gigacube 5G". We show what the super router can do, what advantages and weaknesses there are in this blog. Of course there is also a comparison to the previous model (Huawei B818 = Vodafone GigaCube Cat19) and saving tips for interested parties.
| Vodafone Gigacube 5G Specs and Features | |
| Manufacturer and device name | Huawei CPE 5G Pro (H112-370) = Gigacube 5G |
| Supported mobile standards | 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G |
| 5G network modes | Non standalone & stand alone |
| chipset | Huawei Balong 5000 |
| Maximum 5G data rate | 2.8 GBit/s Down & 150 MBit/s Up according to Vodafone |
| 5G frequencies | 5G band n78 |
| mmWave frequencies | no, only the H112-372 still supported n41 / n77 / n79(more about difference between Huawei H112-370 and H112-372) |
| LTE frequencies | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100, 2600, 3500 MHz |
| External 5G antenna can be connected | yes, 2 x TS9 ports(Buy Vodafone Gigacube 5G External Antenna) |
| WLAN Features (LAN & WiFi) | |
| WLAN standards | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and ax(up to Wifi 6) |
| Maximum gross data rate with WLAN | 5100 Mbps |
| Supported WLAN bands | 2.4 and 5 GHz, 6 Wifi antennas |
| WLAN guest access can be installed | Yes |
| WLAN encryption standards | WPA, WPA2, WPS |
| Gigabit LAN | yes, 2 ports |
| WAN port | No |
| Telephone | |
| Telephone Support | No |
| Other features | |
| IPv6 support; Dual stack | Yes / Yes |
| NAS capable | No |
| SIM form factor | Nano SIM |
| Power consumption approx. | <24 watts |
| Suitable for IPTV | Yes |
| Can be used as a media server | no, no USB |
| USB ports on the back | No |
| Battery for self-sufficient operation | No |
| Dimension and weight | 99 mm x 107 mm x 215 mm and 765 grams |
| Files to download | |
| Datasheet for download (PDF) | not yet available online |
| Manual for download (PDF) | not yet available online |
| Available | »https://www.4gltemall.com/ |
First 5G router in Germany
The Gigacube 5G was the first 5G Router widely available in Germany, although shortly before another network provider in Germany Telekom presented a 5G gateway named HTC 5G Hub.
From a purely visual point of view, it looks similar to the predecessor model called "Gigacube CAT19" at first glance. Instead of the Vodafone logo emblazoned on the front now, the Huawei logo, which is actually atypical for the routers from Vodafone. In addition, the striking big "5G" was stamped on the top. Also, the number of LEDs in the front has been greatly reduced from 8 to 3 pieces.
Data rate, models and 5G SoC
The Vodafone 5G Router is actually the "H112-370" model from Huawei. There is, of course, another version called "H112-372", which differs in terms of Wifi and 5G/LTE equipment. At the heart of the Gigacube 5G is the Balong 5000 chipset, which was introduced in January 2019, The SoC in itself dominated some features, such as 5G in the mmwave area, but which were obviously disabled in part in the firmware. There are also various specifications for the maximum possible data rate. While Huawei speaks of a 5G transmission rate of 2.33 GBit/s in the download and 1.25 GBit/s in the upload, Vodafone gives 2.8 GBit/s (down) and 150 MBit/s (up). Frequencies for 4G & 5G The newest version controls all nationally and internationally relevant bands. Vodafone GigaCube 5G supports LTE FDD Band 700/800/900/1500/1800/2100 and 2600 MHz. In addition, the TDD band 3500 MHz is supported. At 5G, unfortunately, only one band is supported, the so-called n78 band which includes frequencies from 3.3 to 3.8 GHz. So it could be problematic if other bands are released in the future. If you want to use the 5G router supporting more 5G frequency bands, you may check the Huawei CPE 5G PRO H112-372 which supports additional 5G at n41, n77 and n79.
Connections & WLAN
On the back there are two Gigabit LAN ports, as well as a telephone connection. It describes how to connect a telephone anyway. It is also negative that the 5G model no longer has a USB port. The use as a media server is therefore not possible. The Wifi module, on the other hand, is state of the art and comes with Wifi 6. This refers to the standard 802.11ax, which again promises significantly more data rate than the best ever ac standard. This means a maximum gross data rate of 11 GBit/s. In total, up to 32 users can be supplied with WLAN.
Heavier than the previous models
Conspicuously, the newest router has again increased significantly in weight. While the first model of 2017 still came with a slim 366 grams, the Gigacube CAT19 from the beginning of 2019 already weighed 620 grams. The Gigacube 5G brings it now to stately 765 grams on the scales and has thus more than doubled to the first version.
Antenna connections for better reception
Fortunately, Huawei has continued to build two TS-9 ports in the router 5G Huawei, which can be connected to two antennas to improve reception if required for both LTE and 5G reception optimization. Although the internal antennas already do excellent work, but especially in remote regions or in difficult conditions, additional antennas are often absolutely necessary.
Other features and innovations
By the way, the 5G router only holds Nano-SIM cards. The predecessors were all still designed for micro SIMs. By the way, Vodafone has by default disabled the PIN on SIM cards. Optionally, this can be set on the router again. The Gigacube 5G also supports Huawei VPN tunnel/VPN penetration, IP penetration, IPv6 and IPv6 dual stack and multi-APN.
Differences to the predecessor Huawei B818
The following table summarizes again the most important differences to the predecessor model Vodafone GigaCube Cat19.
| Router comparison | Gigacube 5G | GigaCube CAT19 (2019) |
| Factory Model | Huawei H112-370 | Huawei B818-260 |
| 5G support | Yes | no, defies "5G ready" label |
| Download Speed | 2.8 GBit/s | 1.6 GBit/s |
| Upload Speed | 150 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| LTE Category | not spec. but at least CAT19 | cat19 |
| Supported LTE Bands | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100 and 2600MHz; 3500 TDD MHz | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100, 2600, 3500 MHz |
| supported bands 5G | n78 | none |
| External antenna connectors | yes, TS-9 | yes, TS-9 |
| Telephone | no (only via VOIP) | no (only via VOIP) |
| LAN ports | 2 x GBit | 2 x GBit |
| Wireless Internet Access | to WLAN ax (Wifi 6) | to WLAN ac (Wifi 5) |
| Battery pack | No | No |
| Price in USD | 1299.00 | 799.00 |
Vodafone is the first operator in Germany to provide 5G service. To help users enjoy 5G service, Vodafone also presented the 5G data tariff with a compatible 5G router, which is named "Gigacube 5G". We show what the super router can do, what advantages and weaknesses there are in this blog. Of course there is also a comparison to the previous model (Huawei B818 = Vodafone GigaCube Cat19) and saving tips for interested parties.
| Vodafone Gigacube 5G Specs and Features | |
| Manufacturer and device name | Huawei CPE 5G Pro (H112-370) = Gigacube 5G |
| Supported mobile standards | 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G |
| 5G network modes | Non standalone & stand alone |
| chipset | Huawei Balong 5000 |
| Maximum 5G data rate | 2.8 GBit/s Down & 150 MBit/s Up according to Vodafone |
| 5G frequencies | 5G band n78 |
| mmWave frequencies | no, only the H112-372 still supported n41 / n77 / n79(more about difference between Huawei H112-370 and H112-372) |
| LTE frequencies | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100, 2600, 3500 MHz |
| External 5G antenna can be connected | yes, 2 x TS9 ports(Buy Vodafone Gigacube 5G External Antenna) |
| WLAN Features (LAN & WiFi) | |
| WLAN standards | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac and ax(up to Wifi 6) |
| Maximum gross data rate with WLAN | 5100 Mbps |
| Supported WLAN bands | 2.4 and 5 GHz, 6 Wifi antennas |
| WLAN guest access can be installed | Yes |
| WLAN encryption standards | WPA, WPA2, WPS |
| Gigabit LAN | yes, 2 ports |
| WAN port | No |
| Telephone | |
| Telephone Support | No |
| Other features | |
| IPv6 support; Dual stack | Yes / Yes |
| NAS capable | No |
| SIM form factor | Nano SIM |
| Power consumption approx. | <24 watts |
| Suitable for IPTV | Yes |
| Can be used as a media server | no, no USB |
| USB ports on the back | No |
| Battery for self-sufficient operation | No |
| Dimension and weight | 99 mm x 107 mm x 215 mm and 765 grams |
| Files to download | |
| Datasheet for download (PDF) | not yet available online |
| Manual for download (PDF) | not yet available online |
| Available | »https://www.4gltemall.com/ |
First 5G router in Germany
The Gigacube 5G was the first 5G Router widely available in Germany, although shortly before another network provider in Germany Telekom presented a 5G gateway named HTC 5G Hub.
From a purely visual point of view, it looks similar to the predecessor model called "Gigacube CAT19" at first glance. Instead of the Vodafone logo emblazoned on the front now, the Huawei logo, which is actually atypical for the routers from Vodafone. In addition, the striking big "5G" was stamped on the top. Also, the number of LEDs in the front has been greatly reduced from 8 to 3 pieces.
Data rate, models and 5G SoC
The Vodafone 5G Router is actually the "H112-370" model from Huawei. There is, of course, another version called "H112-372", which differs in terms of Wifi and 5G/LTE equipment. At the heart of the Gigacube 5G is the Balong 5000 chipset, which was introduced in January 2019, The SoC in itself dominated some features, such as 5G in the mmwave area, but which were obviously disabled in part in the firmware. There are also various specifications for the maximum possible data rate. While Huawei speaks of a 5G transmission rate of 2.33 GBit/s in the download and 1.25 GBit/s in the upload, Vodafone gives 2.8 GBit/s (down) and 150 MBit/s (up). Frequencies for 4G & 5G The newest version controls all nationally and internationally relevant bands. Vodafone GigaCube 5G supports LTE FDD Band 700/800/900/1500/1800/2100 and 2600 MHz. In addition, the TDD band 3500 MHz is supported. At 5G, unfortunately, only one band is supported, the so-called n78 band which includes frequencies from 3.3 to 3.8 GHz. So it could be problematic if other bands are released in the future. If you want to use the 5G router supporting more 5G frequency bands, you may check the Huawei CPE 5G PRO H112-372 which supports additional 5G at n41, n77 and n79.
Connections & WLAN
On the back there are two Gigabit LAN ports, as well as a telephone connection. It describes how to connect a telephone anyway. It is also negative that the 5G model no longer has a USB port. The use as a media server is therefore not possible. The Wifi module, on the other hand, is state of the art and comes with Wifi 6. This refers to the standard 802.11ax, which again promises significantly more data rate than the best ever ac standard. This means a maximum gross data rate of 11 GBit/s. In total, up to 32 users can be supplied with WLAN.
Heavier than the previous models
Conspicuously, the newest router has again increased significantly in weight. While the first model of 2017 still came with a slim 366 grams, the Gigacube CAT19 from the beginning of 2019 already weighed 620 grams. The Gigacube 5G brings it now to stately 765 grams on the scales and has thus more than doubled to the first version.
Antenna connections for better reception
Fortunately, Huawei has continued to build two TS-9 ports in the router 5G Huawei, which can be connected to two antennas to improve reception if required for both LTE and 5G reception optimization. Although the internal antennas already do excellent work, but especially in remote regions or in difficult conditions, additional antennas are often absolutely necessary.
Other features and innovations
By the way, the 5G router only holds Nano-SIM cards. The predecessors were all still designed for micro SIMs. By the way, Vodafone has by default disabled the PIN on SIM cards. Optionally, this can be set on the router again. The Gigacube 5G also supports Huawei VPN tunnel/VPN penetration, IP penetration, IPv6 and IPv6 dual stack and multi-APN.
Differences to the predecessor Huawei B818
The following table summarizes again the most important differences to the predecessor model Vodafone GigaCube Cat19.
| Router comparison | Gigacube 5G | GigaCube CAT19 (2019) |
| Factory Model | Huawei H112-370 | Huawei B818-260 |
| 5G support | Yes | no, defies "5G ready" label |
| Download Speed | 2.8 GBit/s | 1.6 GBit/s |
| Upload Speed | 150 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| LTE Category | not spec. but at least CAT19 | cat19 |
| Supported LTE Bands | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100 and 2600MHz; 3500 TDD MHz | 700, 800, 900, 1500, 1800, 2100, 2600, 3500 MHz |
| supported bands 5G | n78 | none |
| External antenna connectors | yes, TS-9 | yes, TS-9 |
| Telephone | no (only via VOIP) | no (only via VOIP) |
| LAN ports | 2 x GBit | 2 x GBit |
| Wireless Internet Access | to WLAN ax (Wifi 6) | to WLAN ac (Wifi 5) |
| Battery pack | No | No |
| Price in USD | 1299.00 | 799.00 |