Beyond 5G: Understanding the Next Stage in Wireless Technology
We often talk about the fast-moving nature of digital technology. In fact, it is so fast that even when one technology is yet to be fully rolled out, we're identifying its limitations and looking for what will come next. This situation is what's currently occurring with 5G. Despite being designed to be faster, more reliable and offer lower latency than any previous wireless technology, we're already looking 'Beyond 5G'.
For leading organisations and multi-national distributed enterprises, understanding what's on the horizon is crucial to staying competitive and leveraging the opportunities presented. In this blog, we explore the next iteration of wireless technology - 'Beyond 5G', looking at what it means for your business, what technologies are driving this evolution and the steps you can take to prepare.
What is ‘Beyond 5G’?
The global roll-out of 5G is estimated to be at around 58% in 2024. Yet, we’re already looking to the future. 5G promises capabilities including faster speeds, lower latency, greater capacity and better reliability. It is a significant jump forward in wireless technology innovation, designed to offer everything from improved consumer experience to smart manufacturing, agriculture and environmental monitoring.
It's impressive, but it's already not enough. Technology has moved on, and it has upped its demands on connectivity.
‘Beyond 5G’ is a term that has already been coined for what comes next after 5G. It includes the development of 6G but is more than just a faster wireless technology solution. It’s a whole new way of thinking about connectivity. It will integrate other advanced technologies, AI-driven networks and services to deliver even greater capabilities and tackle more complex challenges.
We’re talking about:
Unparalleled Speed and Capacity: 100x faster than 5G, it will make advanced applications like real-time holograms and ultra-high-definition video streaming possible
Ultra-Low Latency and Unrivalled Reliable: Enabling mission-critical use cases, such as autonomous vehicles and remote surgeries, and, potentially, the roll-out of the Metaverse
Uninterrupted Connectivity: Integrating terrestrial and satellite networks to provide truly global coverage.
It's the next chapter in wireless technology, where the goal of connectivity is not just speed but offering a smarter, more flexible and secure solution that can cope with the demands of the future.
What Beyond 5G Means for Your Business
If you’re thinking, ‘That’s great, but I’ve only just invested in all the infrastructure and tools for 5G. Is Beyond 5G really worth it?’ let’s take a look at why you should be considering this next phase of wireless technology for your business.
Beyond 5G is not just a tech fad designed for those looking for an upgrade in speed. It has the potential to transform the way many businesses operate. Here are some of the exciting potential opportunities it’s aiming to offer:
- Smart Operations: Picture factories using connected sensors and robotics to communicate instantly and prevent downtime.
- Immersive Communications: Imagine using augmented reality and hologram technology to bring teams together no matter where they are in the world.
- Autonomous Systems: It will unlock the true potential of autonomous systems, including logistics drones and self-driving vehicles, which rely on advanced network capabilities to operate safely and efficiently.
These concepts are just a glimpse of what Beyond 5G could deliver. It has the ability to make things we only dreamed of a reality, and embracing it will ensure you remain competitive.
The Technologies Behind Beyond 5G
Beyond 5G will combine new and developing technologies to deliver these impressive capabilities. Here's how a few of these technologies are likely to contribute:
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
AI and machine learning will make Beyond 5G networks adaptable and intelligent. With integrated AI, these networks will be able to dynamically manage network traffic, predict and resolve potential issues and enhance cybersecurity by identifying threats in real time. Meanwhile, ML will work to continually improve and meet changing demands for a better user experience.
Edge Computing
Edge Computing processes data right where it's collected instead of sending it to a centralised server. This approach enables real-time actions and insights - great for applications like predictive maintenance, autonomous vehicles and immersive augmented reality.
Satellite Integration
Having the ability to connect anywhere and anytime is a growing expectation. Beyond 5G will make use of both terrestrial and satellite services to provide continuous coverage, no matter the location. With this fully integrated dual connectivity, businesses operating in remote or underserved areas will be able to access the reliable connectivity needed to optimise their activities. Meanwhile, new possibilities will open up for cross-border operations.
Internet of Things (IoT)
IoT is a major driver for Beyond 5G’s evolution. More than 32.1 billion IoT devices are expected to be in use by 2030, generating massive amounts of data. Beyond 5G creates faster, smarter and more powerful networks that will be able to handle this volume. With the capabilities of Beyond 5G, we'll see the full potential of IoT unlocked.
Preparing Your Business for Beyond 5G
Adapting to Beyond 5G requires proactive and strategic preparation. Here’s what you can do to get ready:
Assess Your Current Infrastructure
Take stock of your existing networks and technologies. Are they scalable? Can they handle the demands of more devices, faster speeds, and real-time data processing? Identifying gaps now will save time and resources later.
Identify Your Key Business Needs
Think about how Beyond 5G could transform your operations. Do you need smarter factory operations, enhanced customer engagement through immersive technologies, or more efficient logistics with autonomous systems? Focusing on the most relevant opportunities will help you prioritise investments.
Future-Proof Your Network
Build flexibility into your infrastructure to adapt to changing technologies. Adopting solutions like edge computing and AI integration will not only prepare your business for Beyond 5G but also ensure you’re ready for other future advancements.
Partner with the Experts
If you feel like the fast and ever-advancing developments in technology are overwhelming, consider working with an expert. A managed network services provider like Hughes will take the load off, allowing you to focus on your daily business goals. We’ll support you in designing, implementing and managing scalable, secure, and tailored network solutions. With an agile, forward-thinking approach, we'll ensure your network is ready to adopt Beyond 5G as soon as it's available and make the most of its remarkable benefits.
Why Act Now?
Beyond 5G may be in the future, but action is required now. This new wireless technology is much more than a connectivity upgrade; it will be a whole new approach to communication and data sharing that brings incredible new business opportunities. The foundations for Beyond 5G are already being laid, and if you prepare for it now, you’ll position your business to gain a significant competitive edge.
If you’d like to explore how your business can prepare for Beyond 5G, please get in touch with us today to start a conversation.