Growth of 5G in APAC

After imprinting its footsteps in 14 countries, 5G is all set to make an evolution. This is in addition to reducing its negative traits in network usage by improving user efficiency.

FREMONT, CA: The commercial availability of 5G data is already well-established in 14 countries, while countries like India and Vietnam are in the process of familiarizing themselves with it. Furthermore, India has a clear vision with its trials of 5G applications such as cloud gaming, robotics, and telehealth by telcos. 5G networks have almost been optimized by one-third of the population when it comes to the pioneer markets where South Korea acts as an exemplar. Various factors, like the recovery of the economy from the pandemic, the rise in 5G handset sales, along with network coverage expansions and marketing efforts, act as an amplifier of the momentum. The monetisation of 5G stands as the top priority for the operators as 5G adoption is progressing all across the regions.

The GSMA consumer survey has come up with good news that individuals all over the world are all set to welcome 5G by adding content and services such as live sports to their 5G plans. The low latency, that is, minimal delay in processing data and high bandwidth capabilities of 5G networks, help in visualizing immersive experiences. This, in turn, has gained huge popularity among customers. The predominant use of these services includes entertainment experiences such as concerts and gaming. It helps the operators access and demonstrates the value of the 5G network. Yet, a deficiency in usage can be observed.

Although mobile broadband services cover approximately 96 per cent of the population, only 44 per cent of consumers use mobile internet services. On a rough estimate, 1.4 billion people use mobile internet services among the total world population.

These variations are due to the lack of digital skills, online safety concerns, and affordability. Various countries are trying their best to bridge this usage gap by conducting several training programmes. Digital inclusion programmes that are being conducted in Singapore act as a facilitator for this idea where seniors are trained to use digital services. However, it is impossible to reduce the usage gap on the whole. Yet, it can be made possible if the stakeholders, along with mobile operators, device manufacturers, and digital content creators, work together to drive adoption, which helps in bridging the gap.

Hence, 5G, with its distinct features, is all set to take the world to a new level, facilitating businesses to offer immersive experiences to their customers.