Since 2019, 5G networks have been rolled out to more than 60 countries across the globe, bringing faster speeds, larger capacities, and little to no latency. As its adoption increases, we can expect benefits that stretch far beyond these functions, which is why 5G is the future.
With enhanced IoT capabilities, driverless vehicles, face recognition software, and interactive technology like AR and VR all supported by this new network technology, the future of 5G opens new opportunities for a range of industries that are expected to change the world as we know it. Here’s how:
Enhanced safety measures
A big reason why 5G is important is that it can help public safety officials perform their jobs better. With a bandwidth that supports ultra-high definition video streaming (4K and 8K), first responders can access live footage that gives an accurate picture of an incident, allowing them to prepare more effective responses.
This same feature can help workplace health and safety officials do more regular assessments of workplaces and job sites, conducting virtual inspections in tandem with in-person visits to reduce risk. The effectiveness of these inspections can be assisted by predictive intelligence that assesses large data volumes and uses computing power to provide automatic hazard detections.
Improved business processes
The remote and flexible working world has grown a lot in recent years. As bandwidths grow and internet speeds increase thanks to 5G this will only continue to develop. Collaboration and connectivity will improve, helping to keep the remote workplace productive. Plus, it provides opportunities for global connections that could further transform what the working environment looks like. With teams increasingly made up of people across the world, real-time translation software supported by the speed of 5G could allow for multi-lingual workplaces.
Enhanced customer analytics
Guaranteed connections and zero lags can provide uninterrupted service to customers, and improve their engagement with AR and VR strategies. With data from IoT, industries can obtain an advanced understanding of consumer behaviour, including how to predict and trigger it. Similarly, IoT tracking allows visibility over supply chains and products so businesses can streamline their process and understand how to improve. This provides new possibilities for products and services, and how to commercialise them.
More advanced security
With 4K and 8K streams, as well as uninterrupted connections, video surveillance can provide consistently high-quality live footage. For cyber security, 5G offers complete visibility, inspection, and controls that can be applied across your network, along with the support of cloud-based threat analytics and machine learning algorithms that can provide fast, real-time responses to threats. With data-driven threat prevention, infected devices can be located and isolated before an attack even occurs.
Optimised warehouse functions
Typically, automated warehouses rely on tethered cable connections to operate their equipment. This includes line sorters, conveyor belts, and truck unloaders. With 5G, these connections can be wireless, helping to maximise efficiency thanks to low latency and high bandwidth that maintains uninterrupted operation. This is also safer for the operator since they can do things remotely, and simply adjust anything as needed in real-time.
Better utility services
Thanks to a robust IoT network, utility providers will have access to new features that allow them to better service their customers. With improved visibility of assets and real-time insights, energy recourse can be automated, which improves resiliency and offers customers a way to reduce their energy usage. 5G also provides opportunities for smart meter integration, simplifying advanced metering. Plus, the process of updating power grid technology to be more modern can be streamlined.
Revolutionised agriculture
As climate change affects the land and weather, the world of agriculture becomes harsher, but 5G capabilities can help. Drones supported by a 5G network can analyse drought and heat spots and help to save thousands of crops every season by activating irrigation systems in these areas.
5G can also make farming more precise and less labour intensive with data-driven approaches and machine to machine communication. Farming equipment companies are already developing smart systems that benefit from edge computing and AI. John Deere is leading the charge, with an automated weed analyser that recognises different weed species, as well as a self-propelled tractor that allows the farmer to operate it via a mobile app while undergoing other tasks.
A new normal for mining
The mining industry is facing a major staff shortage despite pressure for increased productivity. 5G networks can help combat this with automated machinery and automated or remote operations. Combined with hazard detection technology, these capabilities also make for a much safer job site while significantly increasing productivity. In fact, according to professional services network, Deloitte, ore production can increase up to 25%, and drill rig operations up to 40%.
Keep your finger on the pulse of the latest tech with Rubicon 8
New technology developments are becoming available all the time, and at Rubicon 8 it’s our job to know about them. We can help keep your business at the forefront of innovation and make tailored recommendations to suit your business operations. Reach out to us today, and see what you can do for your enterprise.
