Explaining the technological acceptance of 5G: Quantitative and qualitative insights from China and the United States

Abstract

This study examines people's acceptance of the fifth generation (5G) of wireless and mobile communication technologies at a time when such services and devices were just approaching consumer availability. It utilizes the Technological Acceptance Model to the frame analysis of key perceptions of 5G technology, as well as the social climate surrounding it. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered from adult samples in China and the United States to assess how they understand and perceive 5G technology. The results show that perceived technological features (e.g., perceptions of usefulness and speed) explain the favorable attitudes and adoption intentions in the two countries, whereas personal privacy concerns explain the negative attitudes and intentions. The results also demonstrate that, while 5G technology was often regarded as an instrument for national elevation in China, we see more concerns about rumored negative effects of the technology on health in the United States.