What does Telstra’s 5G future mean for Australia?

By Enterprise Monkey
Share

Telstra has just conducted one of the world’s first 5G radio test beds in Melbourne in partnership with multinational telecoms titan Ericsson. The trial, which was the first of its kind in Australia, incorporated live video streaming as well as speed demonstrations.

"This is the first 5G trial on Australian soil, and the outdoor nature of the test has provided a true sense of what 5G will be able to offer customers once it is launched commercially," said Telstra's Chief Technology Officer, Philip Jones.

But how will the technology enable increased efficiency in the lives of businesses and consumers?

Speed is the key
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the technology reached speeds of 20 gigabits per second during Tuesday’s test, which is fast enough to download 600 high-quality movies in just one minute. However, it’s unlikely that the technology will reach the Australian market before the 2020s, with companies around the world vying to be the first firm to deliver 5G to consumers.

Lower latency
When it comes to mobile networks, “latency” refers to the amount of time it takes to send a signal from a mobile phone to your network and back again. Its thought that lowered latency time is going to be another major selling point for 5G.

"We know this lower latency will have a huge impact on future gaming and immersive experiences, virtual and augmented reality, and IoT," said Jones. "The results we have seen are extremely promising, particularly at this early stage of the technology."

Beam steering capability
Telstra’s 5G proposal also includes ‘beam steering’ technology, which can send a direct mobile signal to a device, as opposed to the so-called dispersed signals in use today. Ultimately, directed beams will allow for less interference and the delivery of a higher quality signal to customers.

Business Review Australia & Asia's September issue is live. 

Follow @BizReviewAU on Twitter. 

Business Review Australia is also on Facebook. 

Share

Featured Articles

Nirvik Singh, COO Grey Group on adding colour to campaigns

Nirvik Singh, Global COO and President International of Grey Group, cultivating culture and utilising AI to enhance rather than replace human creativity

How Longi became the world’s leading solar tech manufacturer

On a mission to accelerate the adoption of sustainable energy solutions, US$30 billion Chinese tech firm Longi is not just selling solar – but using it

How Samsung’s US$5billion sustainability plan is working out

Armed with an ambitious billion-dollar strategy, Samsung is on track to achieve net zero carbon emissions company-wide by 2050 – but challenges persist

UOB: making strides in sustainability across Southeast Asia

Sustainability

Huawei smartwatch goes for gold with Ultimate Edition

Lifestyle

How IKEA India plans to double business, triple headcount

Corporate Finance