Themes

The 5G Observatory covers several themes which are important in policy discussions of this new technology.

The 5G Observatory covers several themes which are important in policy discussions of this new technology.

In the EU Digital Decade initiative, 5G verticals are specifically mentioned as key to the digital transformation of businesses. Because 5G features low latency and high speeds, it is well suited to enter vertical markets such as automotive, industry, agriculture, and manufacturing.

The EU Digital Decade also outlines how green developments in technologies such as 5G can contribute towards fighting climate change by reducing energy consumption and improving data collection. This contributes towards the European Green Deal goal of a circular and more resilient economy.

While the first EU 5G initiatives focussed on deployment, the focus is increasingly turning to coverage. In the Digital Decade initiative, the Commission set out a target to cover all populated areas with 5G by 2030.

5G security is also an emerging theme which is highlighted in the EU toolbox for 5G security. There is increasing concern that 5G networks need to be secure, both in the sense of preventing hacking and by ensuring a diversity of suppliers.

Network slicing is an aspect of 5G which is particularly important in serving the verticals market. It allows the network to be split up into segments, each tailored for a specific purpose such as low latency for the quick-response control of robots in factories.

Open RAN is a technology that allows operators to mix and match components and software from different suppliers in their towers and base stations. This may boost competition, reduce costs and so help achieve the EU coverage goals.

Latest News in Europe

Poland opens 3.8–4.2 GHz to private networks

The Polish regulator UKE has published its regulation for local enterprise networks.

Sweden completes spectrum auction

Three operators won frequencies in 900 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands.

Save the date: 5G Observatory workshop on 26th October

The 5G Observatory will be holding its 5th Stakeholder Workshop online on Thursday, 26th October between 10:30 – 13:30.

Ericsson secures 6G research project with German funding

The project is part of a €8.1 billion EU initiative to fund the development of microelectronics and communication technologies.

TIM claims first remote surgery using 5G

The corneal surgery was completed successfully over a 5G connection at the Bari Polyclinic in Italy.

Deutsche Telekom demonstrates 12 Gbit/s using 6GHz spectrum

For the test Telekom equipped a rooftop location in the town of Alzey in Rheinhessen with a 6 GHz antenna. In addition, an antenna was mounted that is already used today for the 5G mobile communications standard and transmits via the 3.6 GHz frequency band.

Spain to invest further €500 million into rural 5G

The Spanish government intends to launch the funding call at the end of September.

Movistar becomes first operator to activate 26 GHz 5G spectrum in Spain

Telefonica, operating in Spain as Movistar, has reportedly activated its first mmWave antennas in Valencia.

Huawei files a lawsuit against Portuguese 5G equipment ban

Chinese technology company Huawei has filed a lawsuit at Lisbon Circle Administrative Court against a resolution that prevents operators from using “high-risk” equipment in 5G mobile networks.

All news in Europe
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