The buzz about 5G in the wireless world has created a surge in competition among companies. At least four major carriersAT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobilehave concrete plans to introduce 5G networks in 2019. But what is this excitement and fierce competition all about? A whole new age of automation.
To start off, all 5G networks will need 4G first before getting the 5G connection when and where its available. Some carriers, such as AT&T, are starting to get carried away with the idea of 5G and are calling their 4G network 5G Evolution. However, this phrasing just creates the illusion that the company provides 5G network functionality to its more oblivious customers, when its just their 4G network campaign.
Although there is a wide range of potential uses, as well as big expectations, for 5G networks, the consistency of the network itself has been ambiguous. One of the biggest challenges facing 5G is standardization. So far, it has been difficult for all the companies to shape 5G requirements and standards everyone agrees on.
Another issue that isnt being addressed is the lack of advanced connectivity in rural areas. 5G networks will most likely not improve communication to or from remote sites, but instead advance existing connections in more urban settings.
The threats to security and privacy also have been a concern to many as with a higher volume of information, ensuring adequate protection of data is very necessary.
Despite the challenges, 5G brings many attractive qualities to the general consumer as it generates faster speed with much lower latency. Latency refers to the amount of time it takes for a device to send a packet of data to another device. Being able to download a full-length movie in a matter of seconds, rather than minutes, is one of the ways 5G connectivity will change the concept of efficiency and speed in our daily lives.
Multiple Applications of 5G
In terms of connectivity, the Internet of Things is expected to grow exponentially and will rely on a 5G network to serve billions of devices all at once. The future is predicted to have artificial intelligence devices communicating with each other to synthesize data, such as driverless cars transmitting information to increase safety and manage traffic.
Additionally, 5G networks could vastly benefit the healthcare industry. This may include virtual reality physical therapy and interaction with newborns in incubators through artificial intelligence. Wearable fitness devices could track real-time well-being and alert doctors about emergencies, immediately, as the situation arises.
Leading the Field
Even though 5G still is in the process of being refined, technology is evolving continuously and the industry is looking toward this next IoT evolution. Aeris is at the forefront of this development and supports this advancement of communication. So, avoid the confusion. Side-step the rumors. Go to the experts who have been at this for more than a decade.
Contact Aeris to see how we can help with your (upcoming) 5G deployments.
