AT&T is planning to conduct 5G streaming tests with DirecTV Now with the objective of determining how millimeter wave (mmWave) technology can manage heavy video traffic. AT&T announced the latest expansion of its 5G connectivity at CES 2017.

AT&T announced that it will test the 5G connection's ability to handle streaming content using its own DirecTV Now streaming television service. The simultaneous tests are bound to happen in the first half of 2017 in Austin, Texas, the same place where the company initially tested its 5G network together with Intel and Ericsson. People living in the city can stream DirecTV Now via a fixed wireless 5G connection.

The 5G tests to be conducted by AT&T will be among the most technically demanding. The company hope that 5G will be the network of the future, which may allow users to achieve speeds of 1Gbps, using millimeter wave technology. The current technology, 4G LTE, can provide a maximum speed close to 50 Mbps.

CNN Money stated that according to AT&T, its 5G service has reached speeds of up to 14 gigabits per second in lab tests, which is significantly faster compared to the current 4G network. AT&T's CEO Randall Stephenson said that they aim to combine faster wireless service with premium content to compete with cable companies. By offering faster wireless speeds, AT&T can acquire customers to use more data and pay for it. There are also others who remain skeptical about mmWave technology for 5G, due to issues like environmental factors and the location of users.

According to AT&T, they will also test other next-generation entertainment services on the 5G network, which may aid the carrier deal with charges of net neutrality violations better. AT&T plans to expand its 5G tests in the second half of 2017. The company will collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies and Ericsson to conduct mobile and fixed wireless trials. Other companies like Google and Verizon are also aiming to deliver high-speed wireless internet to customers. They may also rely on 5G networks to remain competitive. More updates and details on AT&T and its 5G tests are expected soon.