Why a MacBook Pro Should Not Have a Built-in 5G Connection

The primary reason why a MacBook Pro does not typically come with a built-in 5G connection is the convenience and functionality of using Wi-Fi hotspots from smartphones or dedicated Wi-Fi hotspots. These alternatives offer flexibility, ease of use, and increased security when compared to integrating a cellular modem directly into the laptop.

Wi-Fi Hotspots are Easy and Convenient

Creating a Wi-Fi hotspot with your smartphone or a dedicated hotspot device is straightforward and does not require any advanced technical knowledge. This method allows users to maintain access to internet services without the need to carry a separate device like a dedicated laptop or tablet with integrated cellular connectivity.

Security and Power Consumption Concerns

One key concern with integrating a built-in cellular data connection into a laptop is the potential security risk. When your laptop is constantly connected to the internet, it opens up additional vulnerabilities that might be exploited by malicious actors. Additionally, maintaining a cellular connection consumes more power, which can significantly drain the battery, making the device less portable and less suitable for tasks that require mobility.

Current Trends and Industry Practices

While there were instances in the 2000s when laptops with embedded cellular modems were more common, the widespread adoption of Wi-Fi and the increasing reliance on smartphones for internet access have diminished the need for such features. In the current landscape, it is far more common to see tablets equipped with built-in cellular modems, particularly those used in business settings. Examples include iPads with embedded eSIMs, which are popular among professionals such as realtors, designers, engineers, and architects. These devices allow them to access data on job sites without relying on their smartphones, thus preserving battery life and maintaining security.

Why Not Embedded 5G?

Despite the increasing popularity of 5G technology, embedding it directly into MacBook Pros is not currently a practical or necessary solution. This is primarily because most users do not require constant, built-in 5G connectivity. For those who do need such functionality, they can easily and effectively achieve it by using their smartphone as a mobile hotspot. Furthermore, relying on a smartphone for connectivity avoids the need to manage and carry an additional SIM card, which can be cumbersome when traveling.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

The last time cellular networks were integrated into laptops was during a period when tethering was challenging. Back then, Bluetooth was not yet fast enough to support reliable connectivity, and Wi-Fi hotspots had not yet become a mainstream technology. As a result, users were often tethered physically to their phones via USB cables, which were proprietary and not universally compatible. Today, creating a hotspot is as simple as a few taps in the settings menu, and smartphones are rarely separated from their owners.

Another consideration is that advances in Starlink technology might revolutionize this trend. While integrating Starlink into a laptop body is not currently feasible due to the need for large antennas, the technology might change. In the future, if a laptop could support Starlink without the need for external components, it could significantly enhance its capabilities and convenience. However, this is still a hypothetical scenario waiting for technological breakthroughs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the concept of built-in 5G connections in laptops is intriguing, the current landscape of Wi-Fi hotspots and smartphone-based connectivity offers a more practical and secure solution for most users. As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that we will see more advancements in connectivity options, but for the foreseeable future, relying on Wi-Fi and smartphone hotspots remains the most suitable approach for a MacBook Pro.