Soon, we’ll live in a world where our personal devices are equipped with rapid 5G connection speeds. The technology marks the fifth generation of wireless internet technology and is slated to offer network speeds of more than 1Gbps. With 5G connection, we’ll be able to watch YouTube videos in full HD, engage in truly immersive Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality platforms, incredible online gaming experiences or stream 4K HD content (and even 8K content) on a regular ”wifi-free” basis anytime and anywhere.
5G Internet is Coming and It’s Going to Change Everything
Mobile network connections have come a long way since their inception, when we had large phones with unreliable analog voice calling and nothing else (I know you remember the Motorola Brick!). The second generation had digital voice calling (I still miss my Moto Razr and Nokia 1110!), then smartphones brought 3G technology (Hello, iPhone), which added mobile internet and apps. That technology led to the current standard, 4G (or LTE), which is in everyone’s pocket today.
The next frontier will be 5G, offering speeds up to 50 times faster than 4G and paving the way for a new slew of technological opportunities. Mobile platforms will also have to be adjusted in order to meet the new connection speed and latency requirements of 5G.
#1: Faster Internet and Lower Latency
The faster internet speeds of 5G technology will allow for speedier, more consistent live video streaming. This means consumers and brands will be able to easily communicate in real-time. The technology will also offer lower latency, which refers to how long it takes for a network to react to a request. 4G’s latency is 9 milliseconds (ms) on average, but it is expected that this figure will drop to 1ms with 5G.
In other words, 5G connection will offer more consistent and reliable communication channels between consumers and companies. The same idea applies to enterprise apps, as it will be easier to connect with coworkers and other companies. 5G will also encourage developers to create apps that utilize video streaming and communication capabilities more to meet the growing consumer demand for connectivity across multiple channels.
#2: Improving Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are also slated to benefit from 5G connection speeds. Both technologies require large datasets to be processed. With 4G, this can result in lag or an unreliable connection, potentially making the user nauseous. With 5G, users can expect a more seamless experience thanks to its faster speeds, lower latency and increased consistency.
Both AR and VR have been popular in the entertainment realm (think Pokemon GO) and professional industries. Expect their role in the app development world to continue growing as 5G connection speeds help these technologies advance.
#3: Ditching Modems and Cables for 5G Technology
Many people still have a TV that is connected to multiple devices, including cable boxes complete with unruly cords, DVRs, Roku sticks and more! This may soon be shifting, as companies such as Verizon are looking to change the way we connect our devices. The carrier is testing a concept in which it will give customers an Apple TV 4K and a wireless modem instead of the usual cable boxes and other gadgets. Instead of running a standard cable line to the house, Verizon will offer a subscription to YouTube TV.
In this model, consumers will still have modems in their homes, but they will link up to the company’s wireless 5G signal and serve as the home Wifi router. This will allow users to connect to their smart TV, smartphone, computer and other devices through Verizon’s 5G wireless network. Home wireless networks will be more consistent than ever, and installation will be easy; simply plug in the modem and connect to the internet.
#4: Benefits for Multiple Industries
Virtually every industry will benefit from the speed of 5G, but there are a few standouts (that stand out). In the healthcare industry, for instance, 5G will allow physicians to conduct surgery remotely due to the geographic reach of 5G. Surgical devices will have the most reliable connection outside of a hospital, allowing physicians to help patients even if they are in an area without a hospital or if the physician isn’t physically present. Also, 5G will make surgery more precise because doctors will be able to combine touch, movement and vision in synchronicity. This was previously impossible due to low latency.
The manufacturing and retail industries will benefit as well. Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming a large part of supply chain and logistics processes for multiple businesses. 5G will create more reliable connectivity and communication channels across these devices, optimizing the process of building, packaging and shipping products.
#5: Improved Enterprise Cloud Applications and Solutions
Currently, enterprise applications struggle with low throughput, high latency and unreliable connections. 5G’s LAN-level speeds and low latency will help mitigate these issues. Add advanced antennas and improved software to the mix, and enterprise mobile cloud applications will have more consistent connections moving forward.
5G will make an enterprise’s entire network surpass that of a corporate LAN connection, creating a computing experience entirely based on mobile and the cloud. The technology also reduces the need to have data stored locally since data can be stored in the cloud. More businesses will move their data to the cloud once 5G rolls around, increasing the efficacy and efficiency of their operations. Plus, it will be easier for workers to complete tasks from enterprise mobile apps thanks to 5G.
Companies in virtually every industry will win big once 5G reaches the mainstream, as it will create a more connected world with increased internet speeds and lower latencies. This also means businesses will have to adapt to the changes that 5G will bring by updating their platforms and systems. We can expect 5G connection to be mass deployed by around 2020, at which time mobile platforms will need to be revamped accordingly.
Preparing for the Introduction of 5G Internet
If you’re looking to prepare for the advent of 5G, the 7T team can help. We specialize in custom mobile app development and digital transformation. We also offer expertise in some of the most innovative technologies available, including augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, blockchain and natural language processing.
7T is headquartered in Dallas, but we also serve clients in Austin, Houston, and beyond. If you’re ready to discuss your project, we invite you to contact us today.
