5G networks have become available in almost every part of the world at this point, although service can still be hard to find. There is constant discussion and experimentation surrounding 5G technology and what it can do to help us evolve.
Just as we’re learning about 5G and all its frequency bands and possibilities, the cellular industry is moving to a new standard they are calling 5G Advanced. With the environment in mind, 5G Advanced technology promises to improve intelligence and overall performance.
Much like it was with LTE and LTE Advanced, 5G Advanced is an upgrade on the existing 5G network connectivity. Network coverage should drastically improve, in turn providing you consistent, fast internet speeds. Its capabilities are meant to exceed what is currently offered by the 5G network. We should expect smarter software and an improved end-user experience, but not until 2024. This is when the first release of 5G Advanced is planned. Official rollout won’t happen until 2025.
Per an article from Ericsson on 5G Advanced:
One key component of 5G Advanced is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) based on machine learning (ML) techniques. AI/ML is expected to trigger a paradigm shift in future wireless networks. AI/ML-based solutions will be used to introduce intelligent network management and solve multi-dimensional optimization issues with respect to real-time and non-real-time network operation.
AI/ML will also be used to improve the radio interface by further optimizing the performance of complex multi-antenna systems, for example. New use cases such as extended reality (XR) communication will use wireless networks to provide immersive experiences in cyber-physical environments and enable human-machine interactions using wireless devices and wearables.
When some people talk about the possibilities with 5G technology they think of the metaverse. 5G Advanced will help to change the way we experience live and virtual events, and even one on one interactions with people in any part of the world. Think of 5G Advanced as a way to get us closer to the reality of the film Ready Player One.
Another reality we’re getting closer to is autonomous vehicles. Though, automation does not have to be limited to vehicles. Other industries are adopting technologies for using automation in areas like warehouses, power grids, and farming.
Where current 5G networking fails to meet the need, 5G Advanced is there to bridge the gap. It will allow for more efficient use of resources and time for activities. The interlinking of devices makes the connectivity costs cheaper, without compromising on the performance.
As you might have figured, 5G Advanced is the foundation on what is to eventually become the start of 6G technology. The cellular industry is expecting this to be available within the next decade. For a look at the expected timeline, we found this figure from Ericsson below.
