Kick-Starting the Enhanced Connectivity Revolution With 5G and IoT
Connectivity is undergoing a significant metamorphosis across the world, and this time there are higher expectations surrounding it. Why? The answer to this is a buzzword that’s been on our lips for quite some time. And yes, you guessed right, it’s 5G!
The promise and potential surrounding 5G has taken the world by storm, especially policymakers, business leaders, and the media. So we set out to take a realistic view of 5G’s status and where it can be employed and enabled.
Every emerging technology requires an accurate extent of speed in its processes. Therefore, even though new technologies enter the market with remarkable features, they can only be used to their full potential with exceptional speeds. This can be made possible using 5th Generation Wireless Technology, or 5G.
An Introduction to 5G
According to Verizon Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg, “5G isn’t just another tech innovation, it’s the platform that makes other innovations possible.”
5G is the latest iteration of the wireless broadband cellular network. 5G enhances the speed of processes, provides lower latency, greater capacity, and robustness. One of its key features is quicker downloads with lower lag. Furthermore, 5G can provide greater bandwidth to the tune of 10 gigabits per second (Gbps).
5G networks also come equipped with Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS), which supports a range of functions such as mobile workforces and distance learning. DSS refers to a relatively new antenna technology that allows the usage of 5G and LTE in the same frequency band simultaneously.
5G and the Internet of Things (IoT)
Over the past few years, we have noticed immense development in the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. Aspects that were ideas once upon a time are now real and tangible.
However, more significant progress was limited as a result of the bandwidth. Cellular networks offer a good range but have minimal bandwidth. On the other hand, Wi-Fi networks have good bandwidth but limited capacity.
Hence, the innovation of 5G can prove to be a godsend. 5G will significantly boost cellular bandwidths, making it easier for IoT to connect many devices.
There are numerous ways wherein 5G and IoT can work together brilliantly. Let’s take a look at some of them.
- Network Slicing
Network slicing refers to the utilization of network visualization to split a single network connection into numerous virtual and independent connections. These connections are then used to provide various resources to different traffic types based on their priority.
5G network slicing offers network providers the ability to implement only those functions that are necessary or critical to support various market segments or particular customers.
- Improving Traffic Control
5G in cahoots with IoT allows vehicles to talk to each other in a connected environment, thus reducing the risk of accidents. It will also help implement more efficient traffic patterns, reduce traffic jams, shorten commute times, and save energy by reducing the number of vehicles waiting in line at red lights.
- Telehealth
Currently, telehealth is prone to poor connectivity and blackouts. Hence, proving to be a problem for those people living in rural areas where doctors and hospitals are limited. In this case, 5G will help increase Internet speeds in rural areas while assisting surgeons in working efficiently via robots in rural clinics. Additionally, when combined with personal medical kits, it would be possible to diagnose patients suffering from contagious diseases remotely.
- Integrated Supply Chains
Throughout entire cycles, warehouses and factories employ real-time tracking for products, parts, equipment, and inventory control. With the help of 5G, the supply chains will be integrated into a singular comprehensive system, thus reducing costs.
This will reduce product loss in transit and enhance customer service. Moreover, if 5G tags are economically priced, it could help prevent porch banditry by helping law enforcement track missing or stolen parcels.
For the industry as a whole, it would help track production bottlenecks and further improve processes.
The Next Revolution is Upon us
The IoT and 5G partnership has the potential to transform our lives as we know it. To start, it will brilliantly enhance far-reaching connectivity while boosting Internet speeds. Apart from this, it would also improve the sophistication of connected vehicles while making our cities smarter.
The 5G revolution is finally bearing down on us, and it’s set to be an interesting ride. We, at Mutual Mobile, couldn’t agree more. We are excited to develop use-cases for the 5G and IoT partnership, given our expertise in emerging technologies. So you should contact us if you’re looking to take advantage of this revolution!