The rollout of 5G is unlocking a whole new world of possibilities for society. Apart from boosting network connections, 5G will probably facilitate life-changing advancements that were initially a preserve of science fiction. Although the availability and speeds of 5G have certainly been making headlines, you must also understand 5G early adopter expectations and how they view the 5G network experience.
Ericsson ConsumerLab’s insights, gathered from over 1,600 Canadian smartphone users, shed light on how Canadians are experiencing 5G. With Canada having active commercial 5G networks, it’s notable that 16% of Canadian consumers could access 5G by 2021, totaling approximately 3 million users. However, Canada’s 5G adoption still faces challenges related to device availability, network development, and new applications.
The Value of 5G
Canadian users with 5G devices enjoy faster speeds, but many feel the experience still resembles 4G, especially regarding available applications. Despite high consumer awareness, the heavy tech jargon in 5G marketing often confuses Canadians, leaving them unclear on what 5G offers and its real value. However, the new spectrum bands, alongside innovative applications, are expected to bring significant value to Canadians, enhancing the experience and driving adoption.
5G is Changing Usage Behavior
In Canada, 5G is encouraging new and more frequent uses of cloud gaming and high-definition video. Of 5G users, 37% have either started cloud gaming or increased their usage, while 28% report increased video streaming as the high speeds enable a better experience. This trend shows that 5G isn’t just about faster internet; it’s changing how Canadians consume entertainment.
How 5G Will Benefit Businesses and Organizations
Fewer Breakdowns in Service + Faster Speeds = Greater Efficiency and Productivity
Current spectrum bands are becoming crowded, causing more connectivity breakdowns. However, 5G can manage a vast number of connected devices simultaneously, significantly reducing breakdowns. With faster speeds and lower latency, Canadian businesses will enjoy smoother connectivity, leading to improved productivity. For many industries, this means reduced downtime and the potential to streamline operations, ultimately benefiting the economy.
Better Communication
5G’s high-speed connectivity allows for almost instantaneous communication, an essential asset for any organization. For Canadians, this means seamless video and audio streaming, enhancing collaboration across remote teams. Imagine effortless high-resolution video calls, fast file sharing, and real-time updates. This improved communication is particularly valuable for remote work, allowing Canadian companies to recruit talent nationwide and even globally.
Real-World 5G Applications
5G technology is primed to fuel the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) in Canada, facilitating a more connected world. While IoT is already here, current LTE networks struggle to support the demands of countless devices. A boost from 5G will unlock additional capabilities in sectors reliant on IoT, such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). IIoT uses devices and sensors to gather data and improve efficiency, with applications across industries.
This connected world has exciting implications for Canadians, including smart factories with automated machinery, robots, and software working in unison for enhanced production. Beyond industry, Canadians can look forward to smart cities, where everything from utilities to security infrastructure is interconnected. With 5G, these systems will function more efficiently, consume less energy, and extend device battery life.
5G in Online Casinos in Canada
For Canadians who enjoy online casino gaming, 5G is set to redefine the experience. With high-speed, low-latency connectivity, 5G enables smoother, uninterrupted gameplay. This is especially valuable when playing live dealer games at online casinos in Canada. Players can look forward to high-definition video streaming without buffering, enhancing the immersion in games that replicate the feel of a physical casino.
Moreover, 5G supports advanced graphics and interactive features, such as augmented reality (AR), which can make online gaming even more engaging. This connectivity also ensures faster transactions, making deposits and withdrawals quicker. For Canadians who play on mobile, 5G’s coverage is beneficial, providing a reliable connection for gaming on the go, wherever coverage is available.
Improved Public Safety and Infrastructure
5G offers significant potential for public safety and infrastructure improvements in Canada. Cities and municipalities could operate more efficiently by leveraging real-time monitoring and alerts for infrastructure issues. For example, sensors can detect drain blockages, alerting public works to respond before they cause major disruptions. Utility companies could remotely monitor usage, leading to better management of resources. This proactive approach enhances public safety and makes Canadian cities smarter and more resilient.
Better Healthcare
Healthcare in Canada is also set to benefit from 5G. With the rise of telemedicine, more Canadians can access healthcare services from their homes. This is critical for individuals with limited mobility, such as seniors. The low latency of 5G makes telemedicine more effective, supporting real-time consultations and data gathering from wearable devices.
The benefits go beyond remote appointments. With 5G, Canadians could experience advancements like augmented reality (AR)-assisted physical therapy, allowing patients to perform guided exercises at home with real-time feedback. In the future, remote surgery, entirely wireless and supported by 5G, could become a reality, further transforming healthcare access.
5G could also enhance patient monitoring. Wearable devices can send health data to doctors in real-time, enabling faster response to health issues. “Smart pills,” which track medication compliance, are another promising technology that 5G could support, ensuring patients take medications as prescribed for better health outcomes.
