Urgent need to improve mobile networks

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There are few who can argue against the rapid increase in data use in most countries around the world. This has led to an urgent need to improve mobile networks so that they can withstand the sharp increase in demand for internet on the move, particularly given the emergence of mobile devices as the main means for internet access. Although 5G has different meanings for different countries and organizations, the term can generally be taken to mean the next generation of high-speed and ultra-reliable internet access that can accommodate data-heavy applications such as high-definition video, as well as other future technologies not yet developed.

Ubiquitous and high-speed 5G services could, according to industry experts, support always-connected mobile devices that host multiple applications from high-definition video streaming to navigation aids and social media. Better networks will also continue to underpin the growth of smartphone and tablet use, as well as applications such as mobile TV and gaming. Much of the innovation associated with 5G will be unseen by consumers, with devices simply better able to utilize constrained spectrum in a way that will not only improve services but reduce the environmental impact of doing so. So-called “machine to machine” communication will also become more important, with utilities hooked up to constantly updated national networks, household appliances able to talk to owners and health monitoring systems connected to local hospitals.


Urgent need to improve mobile networks