Saf Malik April 1, 2021 COVID has delayed 5G uptake in usually crowded areas, but Apple’s entry may help to drive the market 2020 was originally predicted to be the year that 5G went mainstream, but its progress has slowed significantly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While consumer interest in the new technology certainly grew with the release of a range of new 5G devices, the impact of the virus has had a drag on 5G because people haven’t been able to enjoy the benefits of the technology while being stuck at home according to CCS Insight chief analyst Ben Wood.