At the Global Mobile Broadband Forum 2023, Ken Hu of Huawei underscored the impressive growth of 5G networks worldwide, signaling a transformative shift. With 260 5G networks serving almost half the global population, 5G is identified as the catalyst of synergistic growth in the B2B market. However, realization of its full potential will base on consistent network investment, as reiterated by Bruce Lam—CEO, Consumer, at Hong Kong Telecommunications.
In the recently held Network X event, Orange’s Deputy CEO shed light on their significant fiber expansion and presented an intriguing outlook on 5G’s future, hinting at its potential in achieving the 2040 CSR objectives. Discussing 5G Standalone (SA), she highlighted it as a gamechanger for B2B interactions, fueling varied possibilities. Briefly discussing their triumph at the Barcelona port project, she humbly emphasized the responsibilities that come with connected factories.
In a robust move, Nokia is set to enhance 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) with the unveiling of FastMile, two innovative solutions aimed at boosting indoor and outdoor coverage. This stride could revolutionize the industry, especially when considering wall attenuation effects on network capacity. FastMile’s outdoor solution cleverly sidesteps signal loss due to wall materials, while an intuitive mobile app assists users in determining the best placement for their receivers—shaping a route towards an optimal user experience in telecommunications.
Samsung’s 5G CBRS Strand Small Cell solution empowers cable operators by providing a quick, cost-effective method for deploying 5G data-offloading capabilities. Field-tested and now commercially available, this compact solution has been deployed with Comcast, supporting their goal of efficient data traffic offloading and improved 5G connectivity.
In light of Ericsson’s mounting tension with Lenovo and Motorola Mobility for suspected patent infringement, the telecom giant invites a discussion on the significance of intellectual property rights in fostering innovation. An influx in Ericsson’s licensing revenue, along with recent 5G legal victories, underscores this issue within the tech landscape.
DISH Wireless, in partnership with Samsung and Qualcomm, has achieved groundbreaking 5G carrier aggregation milestones. Notably, peak uplink speeds of 200 Mbps and 1.3 Gbps downlink speeds were realized with minimal spectrum usage, marking a significant advance in 5G capabilities. Boost Mobile subscribers can anticipate faster download and upload speeds.
An ambitious €1 billion initiative is underway in Spain to narrow down the digital divide in rural areas, spearheaded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation. The project focuses on escalating the presence of 5G technology, committing an impressive €544 million towards standalone deployments. Aimed at areas unlikely to be targeted by private sector network deployments, it accentuates the government’s determination to extend tech revolutions to the unserved regions. With potential applications to various sectors, Spain’s pathway to complete 5G integration could serve as an inspirational model for others in this era of digital transformation.
In an exciting move, Vodafone and Arm have united to innovate within the telecom industry, developing an adaptable platform with Arm-based processors ideal for Open RAN base stations. Their collaborative effort showcases both parties’ commitment in enriching the competitive Open RAN landscape, offering robust computational power for 5G services and improved energy efficiency. In addition, illustrious companies like SynaXG, Ampere Computing, and Fujitsu are lending their expertise to test and validate this technology. The joint venture also presents opportunities for Vodafone to reach its net-zero targets.
As Malaysia deliberates on Huawei’s engagement in their projected second 5G network, international eyebrows are raised. Clamor for transparency grows louder as the telecom world anticipates waves of change from this decision’s rippling effects.
5G – a transformative force reshaping engagement and innovation parameters, and serving as an unbeatable tool in the delivery of public services. A recent discussion convened by industry experts highlighted the profound ways 5G is set to transform public service delivery. The prime objective? To nurture an environment of growth through collaboration, aligning 5G deployments with societal needs and creating impactful outcomes. Public authorities are encouraged to adapt, to harness the power of 5G and transform public service delivery. The journey of 5G is only just beginning.
