During MWC Shanghai 2024, GSMA orchestrated the 5G-A Industry Roundtable, gathering a constellation of global regulators, operators, equipment vendors, research institutes, and vertical industry leaders. This assembly was a brainy plethora of insights and shared network construction achievements, marking milestones from 5G to 5G-Advanced (5G-A) and unearthing strategies for 5G-A business monetization.
David Li, the articulate President of Huawei’s 5G&E TDD Domain, captivated the audience, proclaiming, “The commercial launch of 5G-A in 2024, within the sensational scope of AI’s relentless rise, gifts the mobile sector a bountiful opportunity. Huawei’s dedication to innovation across four cardinal technologies cultivates green, seamless 5G-A connections poised to offer perpetually available services. Gazing ahead, we will synergize closely with global partners to exploit the deterministic network capabilities, unveiling boundless opportunities brimming from the thriving applications in the AI era.”
The conference buzzed with insights from representatives of elite operators, like China Unicom Beijing, China Mobile Yunnan, and du UAE. They enthusiastically chronicled their experiences in 5G and 5G-A network construction and business monetization. Advanced network capabilities were hailed for fostering diverse mobile applications, enabling a bespoke user experience critical for multi-faceted 5G-A monetization. High-caliber 5G networks were acclaimed as the bedrock of 5G-A deployment. Enhancing these networks in residential areas, high-speed railways, urban, and rural terrains aims to foster a versatile 5G-A network. Additionally, end-to-end smart operations empower operators with comprehensive network diagnostics, self-repair, and optimization prowess, thus boosting network efficiency and user satisfaction.
Industry luminaries from GSMA and Omdia underscored the accelerating tempo of 5G business growth, heralding the prime time for 5G-A deployment. They spotlighted the large-scale rollout of 3CC technology driving 5 Gbps network speeds, perfect for immersive gaming, rivulet sports events, and riveting audio-visual entertainment. The 5G-A industry chain has matured, with new spectrum resources like U6G and mmWave being allocated to operators for testing. More than 30 types of terminals globally now support 5G-A, with over 60 operators rolling out commercial 5G-A networks. Consequently, collaborative efforts across the industry chain are paramount to build networks and applications that are efficient, intelligent, and incredibly reliable, ready to seize the AI-driven opportunities.
Huawei officially unveiled the technology evolution trajectory from 5G to 5G-A, envisioning greener mobile networks with augmented connections and a deterministic experience fostered by continuous innovation. Key technologies in the spotlight included the 3D extremely large antenna array (ELAA), customized experiences, all-scenario green solutions, and AI-powered networks.
AI’s pervasive expansion to PCs, mobile phones, wearables, and vehicle-mounted systems is birthing a universe of connected objects, rich content, and diverse user traffic models. This evolution demands elevated network capabilities while ushering in novel services, superior network quality, and enhanced operations and maintenance (O&M). Huawei, acknowledging these new prospects, advocates for industry-wide partnership to drive collective success in the 5G-A domain.
The year 2024 is set to herald the debut of commercial 5.5G, with F5.5G gigabit optical network deployments already underway. The convergence of networks, clouds, and intelligence promises pervasive intelligent applications and an array of user experiences. Together with global operators, industry experts, and thought leaders, Huawei is plunging into enthralling discussions at this year’s MWC Shanghai. They aim to amplify the triumphs of 5G into the 5.5G era and investigate fresh avenues for operator revenue growth, propelling us swiftly toward an intelligent world. For more exciting updates, dive into: https://carrier.huawei.com/en/events/mwcs2024.
Huawei’s vision for 5G-A is truly revolutionary. Looking forward to seeing how these advancements will integrate with AI.
Indeed, but I worry about their track record with privacy and security issues. Can we trust them with our data?
That’s a valid concern, Alex. Transparency and robust regulations are crucial to ensure data safety.
It’s not just Huawei; data security is a widespread issue, but we shouldn’t halt progress due to fear.
AI and 5G integration could be blockchain’s perfect use case! Secure and decentralized networks!
Green technology in mobile networks sounds amazing, but how are they addressing the environmental cost of manufacturing such advanced devices?
Exactly, Jane! The term ‘greenwashing’ comes to mind. Are these companies really committing to sustainability?
We need more transparency in how they’re reducing carbon footprints across the entire supply chain.
Sometimes these promises are just a means to get more market share. True sustainability practices need to be proven.
The deployment of 5G-A in high-speed railways and rural areas could bridge the digital divide significantly.
But will rural and underserved areas really benefit first? Cities usually get tech first.
You’re probably right, but we should push for equal access. Government policies could help.
Funding and infrastructure development are crucial. Hopefully, international collaborations can accelerate this.
AI-powered networks sound promising, but there are ethical concerns. Who controls the AI and how is it regulated?
Agreed, Mike. Regulatory frameworks are essential to ensure that AI usage respects user privacy and ethical standards.
Absolutely, transparency in AI algorithms and usage is a must. The tech community should champion this.
Interestingly, regulation could either stifle innovation or steer it into respectful and practical applications. Balance is key.
5G-A and 5.5G sound incredible. But does this mean we’ll need new devices every few years to keep up?
The growth pace is astonishing. How does one keep up with tech advancements and avoid feeling left behind?
This focus on collaborative efforts is key. No single entity should dominate the tech space.
True, Rob. Collective success through partnerships creates a more robust and sustainable ecosystem.
Exactly. Competition drives innovation, but collaboration ensures universal benefits.
But don’t you think some companies will always aim to monopolize despite collaborations?
Looking at the promises of 5G-A, how will existing 5G networks adapt? Will they be obsolete soon?
Great question! Incremental upgrades should prevent existing networks from becoming obsolete immediately.
Hope so, Peter. Otherwise, it’s a significant waste of resources and investment.
End-to-end smart operations might be revolutionary, but what about the job losses due to automation?
Good point, Max. Automation benefits efficiency, but there should be measures for reskilling workers.
It’s the natural progression of technology. New jobs will emerge, often in more advanced fields.
Interesting read on U6G and mmWave. The tech sounds complex, but what does it mean for the average consumer right now?
Mostly just better internet speeds and connectivity, which is always welcome. But the practical apps may take some time.
Thanks, Tina. It’s good to know there’ll be immediate benefits, even if full potential takes time.
3D ELAA technology could redefine user experiences. I wonder how this will impact device design.
Exciting times ahead! Though it feels like we’re accelerating at a breakneck pace, are we ready for it?
The future sure seems to be coming faster than ever before! Readiness is subjective; we adapt as it comes.
True, Olivia. Let’s hope adaptations are as rapid as the technological advancements.
5.5G gigabit optical networks are already underway? This will make remote work and education smoother than ever.
Absolutely, Gary! Better networks can solve so many connectivity issues, especially in rural areas.
Exactly! Imagine the improvements in daily productivity and access to resources.
If only the deployment is as quick and widespread as the hype suggests. We’ll see.