According to a recently released whitepaper, there are more than 105 5G networks now deployed around the world, and the paper, from 5G Americas and Rysavy Research, “Global 5G: Rise of a transformational technology,” highlights the intensifying role of 5G and its impact.
“The 5G revolution is set, as new consumer and enterprise use cases are emerging that will take advantage of the greater data throughput, lower latency, and improved management of a massive number of connected devices,” said Chris Pearson, President of 5G Americas. “It’s an exciting time in the industry, as we see a long horizon for innovation.”
With 3GPP specifications completed for Releases 15 and 16, and progress underway for Release 17, this paper reportedly delves into the most important cellular wireless updates of 2020 and beyond, including:
- 3GPP has completed specifications for both Release 15 and Release 16, addressing a range of use cases far beyond LTE
- Release 17 work has begun to define support for low-complexity devices, operation in 52.6 to 71 GHz, satellites, multiple SIMs, and NR multicast and broadcast
- Operators are transitioning to standalone architecture, lowering network latencies, improving coverage, addressing industrial IoT, and simplifying operations
- Massive MIMO and beamforming are enabling use of spectrum above 6 GHz, as well as improving performance in lower bands.
- Internet of Things is undergoing wide scale adoption with tens of billions of new connected devices expected over the next decade
- The industry is now deploying versions of LTE that can operate in unlicensed spectrum, with capabilities for 5G using unlicensed spectrum now also specified
- Edge computing and artificial intelligence are re-shaping network architecture to deliver ultra-low latency, lower network operational costs, and support new types of applications
This paper also covers the growing role of wireless communications, the impact of 5G and how it will evolve in the coming decade, 5G Americas said in the release. It delves into how IoT, Industrial IoT, cellular communications, spectrum developments, key enabling technologies, 4G LTE advancements, 3GPP releases, fixed wireless access, voice support, public safety, and capacity expansion will come into play in bringing together a connected society.
“The emphasis on 5G by the wireless industry, enterprises, and governments is gaining momentum,” said Peter Rysavy, author of the white paper. “The COVID19 pandemic has further pushed the need for wireless technology to play a crucial role in keeping society connected under difficult conditions. This paper addresses what 5G can do today and how it will evolve during the coming decade.”
“Global 5G: Rise of a transformational technology” is available for free download on the 5G Americas website. Blog post by Chris Pearson, and presentation slides are also featured on the 5G Americas website.
Ken Briodagh is a storyteller, writer and editor with about two decades of experience under his belt. He is in love with technology and if he had his druthers would beta test everything from shoe phones to flying cars.Edited by
Ken Briodagh
