There are many use cases for 5G technology. Here are just seven examples:
- Replacing Broadband with WiFi
5G in business makes it easier than ever to access the internet from just about anywhere in the world. For remote workers or anyone working from a mobile device, setting up fixed wireless instead of broadband can make all the difference in the world in terms of running a successful business. This makes it easier to stay connected to company headquarters and other distributed workers.
2. Supply Chain Management
Any business that’s required to source and track equipment will benefit from the introduction of 5G. Today, many businesses deal with equipment that needs to be tracked so that it can be accessed easily. 5G is a useful tool for any field in which communication with far-flung suppliers is crucial. It also offers greater security as well as the capability to ingest, process, and store key data.
- Sensor-based Systems
Many businesses rely on sensors in their operations. Manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, and building maintenance all use sensors in order to monitor workspaces for critical issues.
Using sensors necessitates a massive intake of data, and requires a way to store and process all of that data. At the same time, it necessitates effectively protecting that data. Working with a 5G network gives businesses access to the speed and reliability needed to process the data collected by sensors.
4. Network Edge
Edge computing is among the most exciting new technologies available today.
5G’s abundant bandwidth makes edge computing an achievable reality for workers both at company headquarters and around the world. By providing speed, reliability, and constant connectivity, 5G makes it easy for teams to access edge computing.
- Augmented Reality
Applications like augmented reality are becoming crucial for more and more retailers as shopping online becomes the norm. Augmented reality also has applications for policing, environmental workers, and any other field where drones or robots can be deployed to carry out a project. With reliable 5G internet access, remote workers can manage such robots or drones from a distance.
6. Autonomous Vehicles
In order to function at their best, self-driving cars need to remain constantly connected to a network. This is crucial so they can both take in data about their surroundings and transmit information about their whereabouts.
5G connectivity makes it possible for autonomous vehicles to remain online constantly — no matter where they are. Real-time data-driven vehicle management will be possible and eventually, these vehicles can reach true autonomy.
7. Smart Cities
The “smart city” — a metropolis in which everything from streetlights to buses can be connected and managed — may seem like a dream today. But they are fast becoming a reality, and 5G is well-suited to accelerate that.
The constant connectivity offered by 5G can help make the smart city a reality. Some public safety software has already started deployment to help make policing more effective. It is also projected to help cope with the increased bandwidth required by the growing demands of video and camera surveillance. It's also expected to boost facial recognition technology that may be deployed to help identify bad actors.