Fast 5G beckons, but it is still far off for most mobile users

Unlike previous generations, 5G is expected to offer faster, more stable connections for cars, homes, factories and offices

The telecom world is gearing up for 5G, the next generation wireless technology that promises to go beyond phones and link up everything from vehicles to household devices, or anything else with an internet connection at far greater speeds.

Yet most consumers will wait years to experience the benefits. While the first commercial 5G projects will launch in the United States in 2018, many users in emerging markets are still awaiting 4G and are likely to have to grapple with ropey 3G connections for years more.

Among industry insiders, the debate is about whether 5G will deliver on all the promises that