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RESEARCH, ANALYSIS & TRENDS

5G services is finite or limited. Though possible for Mobile network operators play a crucial role in the
developing nations to leap frog to 5G, a key question to success in its implementation. However, it is necessary
consider is the need for 5G within and beyond for them to understand the need and therefore demand
government driven initiatives, particularly given that for 5G and focus on industries that can bring them the
costs remain a limiting factor and that mobile network best returns.
operators are assessing the capabilities of 4G before
deciding to invest in 5G to supplement it. In line with this, support from governments and working
Getting everyone on board for 5G initiatives could prove with other stakeholders within the ecosystem will be
to be a hurdle too. Although 5G is fast gaining crucial to pushing 5G in their markets.
momentum, businesses are yet to see the immediate
need for 5G until its full benefits and opportunities for In the future, the possibility of a mobile network that is
monetization become apparent. This could delay seamless, converged and offering end to end services
integration of 5G into solutions and service offerings. at the right price points, could be a reality. Along with
this, the leading-edge use of artificial intelligence to
Similarly, consumers still hold a ‘wait-and-see’ approach drive safe and secure real time service offerings could
until 5G-enabled devices and solutions can transform also become a real possibility.
their lives in an impactful way – such as the use of cost
effective wearables, e.g. an augmented reality helmet The dream of an ultra-connected, efficient society is
used by a blind person for safe navigation in real time or already in the making, and if a smarter and more
sensor triggered braces that aid mobility in disabled connected world is the future, then 5G could be the
people. highway to get us there. ◊

Stepping Stones By Quah Mei Lee,
Industry Principal –
ICT Practice APAC,
Despite the hurdles, early developments in 5G are
already revealing new, exciting opportunities that are Frost & Sullivan,
proving 5G’s potential in various use scenarios and allow
us to go truly ‘wireless’. Quah Mei Lee will speak at the ConnecTechAsia
Summit on Conference Day 1, 26 June 2018 and
moderate the panel ‘Disruptors Dialogue: Breaking
Free from the Connectivity-Driven Competition’.

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