Evaluating Cellular Networks in Real-Time: Mobtest for 5G and Emerging 6G Technologies

This paper introduces Mobtest, a custom-developed mobile application designed to evaluate the performance of cellular networks, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G, across diverse urban and rural environments. The application facilitates real-time data collection on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as signal strength, data rate, latency, and connectivity. By standardising devices and testing conditions, Mobtest ensures consistency and reliability, enabling unbiased analyses of network behaviour under varying scenarios. To complement the application, an interactive dashboard has been developed, providing real-time visualisations, geographical mapping, and trend analysis. This dashboard supports early-stage evaluation and enables the identification of network strengths and weaknesses, establishing a foundation for advanced future analyses. The study further explores the integration of big data and AI for mobility management in future 5G and 6G networks. By leveraging extensive datasets, researchers can optimise handover processes, minimise latency, and maintain seamless connectivity in increasingly complex network environments.