An Uncertain Future in A 5G Enabled World

In the age of IoT, privacy is of increasing concern. In the U.S., 5G may create additional issues, with widespread deployment. As more devices, sensors, and applications connect to the Internet, the potential for massive amounts of data is also growing exponentially. The implications for the privacy of individuals and organizations are potentially extreme. With the increased use of 5G technology, more and more data, such as financial transactions, health records, and personal information, may fall into the wrong hands. Many have warned of the risk of identity theft due to this massive increase in data, potentially.

To truly understand 5G, you need to understand the way the Internet moves information. The growing number of Internet of things (IoT) devices capable of communicating with each other (e.g., cars, smart appliances, and other IoT devices) will now have greater capabilities of communicating with a large numbers of other devices. This will make the Internet faster and more reliable. It will also change the way people communicate with each other. 5G has been the subject of much discussion, from industry expert discussions to coronavirus conspiracy theories.

In a post-COVID-19 world, artificial intelligence, machine vision, and big data can improve every aspect of our lives. However, industry experts will need to continue helping the Government design a robust 5G spectrum management strategy, deliver new privacy plans that provide clarity in order to encourage investment, drive competition, and ensure the responsible use of 5G. 

The federal government’s regulation and continued support of 5G R&D is essential for our nation’s prosperity and security. Senior officials at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (https://www.whitehouse.gov/ostp) are leading multiple strategic efforts across government that promote innovation, entrepreneurial activity throughout the private and public sectors and ensure national security. The prioritization of 5G R&D in areas where it enhances domestic skills and capabilities will help establish a dominant position globally, help ensure security and will lower costs to U.S. businesses and consumers. Investments that support both economic and human capital development are critical. At this point, the federal government should undertake additional prioritization efforts that support the use of emerging technologies in areas where they are needed most, in health care and education. There is a pressing need to elevate population health and train the skills of tomorrow’s workforce.

Breakthrough technological advancements in 5G are creating opportunities for a new class of intelligent devices. As installations significantly increase bandwidth and speeds of data transmission, 5G will allow for greater applications of augmented reality, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence (AI). Advancements will pave the way for greater accessibility and increased productivity. In the next 5 years, AR will be one of the fastest growing platforms in use. A diverse collection of firms are invested in 5G advancements and are working to to unlock the full benefits of the entire Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem.