IoT and 5G
IoT and 5G are changing the way that we work, connect with customers, shop, communicate and live. But what do our cellular device networks have to do with IoT, and what role does 5G have to play?
First, let’s get a better grasp of what exactly cellular IoT is, and what it’s used for.
What is Cellular IoT?
In English, cellular IoT is the technology that connects all your IoT devices to the internet, by using the network connectivity that your cell phones already utilize. The same technology that enables you to browse through your social media while taking a walk in the park can be enabled to keep your IoT devices (like sensors, etc) to the internet, and this technology is booming!
More cellular IoT networks are continuing to be developed, and the devices that utilize them are becoming more efficient and application-friendly all the time.
Cellular IoT networks eliminate the need to create new private networks (that can fail with power outages or other mishaps), are low power, and are wide area networks. They work well as your primary network and are also a great backup in case your experience a WiFi failure. If you imagine self-driving cars, emergency sensors, and controls, the need to be connected no matter what becomes incredibly apparent!
The implications for mobility are staggering when you consider all the places that you (or your workforce!) can take their mobile phone, and the speed via which data can be uploaded and downloaded. The things that we have come to expect while browsing the web or our mobile apps, will be the things we come to expect from our IoT devices as well.
How does 5G impact Cellular IoT?
One of the biggest benefits of cellular IoT is the speed, reliability, and versatility of its connectivity. As the stand-alone or backup network for your devices, taking advantage of the robust cell phone networks already in place makes sense, and as the number of devices and networks continues to grow, the number of companies and agencies taking advantage of this technology will grow too.
5G in essence offers greater speed and reliability when it comes to cellular data; the kind of speed and reliability that Cellular IoT networks and devices currently and will continue to rely upon in the future. The higher data rates, lower latency and increased capacity of 5G will enable the continued growth of IoT devices across the spectrum, from medical devices to self-driving cars, drones, logistics, reporting, tracking, emergency services, and more.
Cellular IoT networks are only as powerful as the cellular network they are connected to, and your IoT devices only operate when they are connected, so the benefits of 5G will only become more apparent as more and more companies adopt this technology and reap the rewards.
Is your company ready?
Mobility Help Desk and AT&T are on the leading edge of mobile connectivity for businesses and organizations of all sizes who are ready to work faster, more efficiently, and with more creativity.
5G connected IoT devices are going to change the way we work and live, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.
