Vivo launched the cheapest 5G model in China

Vivo launched the most affordable 5G model in China, signaling that 5G popularity may come earlier than expected, Shanghai Daily learned on Friday. 

The new Vivo iQOO Pro, featuring 5G and a 48 mega-pixel triple camera, costs from 3,798 yuan (US$542) and will be available next month.

The price half that of other 5G models, with the Samsung Galaxy 5G starting from 7,999 yuan. 

China issued 5G licenses to mobile carriers in June.

Analysts previously expected average cost of new 5G models to be 8,000 to 10,000 yuan this year, with phones becoming popular next year at more affordable prices.

By 2020, more than 160 million 5G models will have been sold globally, about half of them coming from China, said researchers.