Edge Computing and 5G: Transforming Industry in 2023 and Beyond

5G and edge computing are no longer simply technology trends. When combined, they have the potential to revolutionize the way businesses operate. “Edge computing became part of the 5G Wireless mandate when engineers realized the same mechanism that reinforces a data communications network can reinforce a data processing network,” ZDNET reports. “And conceivably, the two businesses need not just coexist, but could then combine.”

 

5G is a next-generation wireless technology that offers remarkably faster speeds and lower latency than its predecessor, 4G. Edge computing is a distributed computing paradigm that brings computation and data storage closer to the user. Each of these has several benefits for businesses, including reduced latency, improved security, and increased scalability.

 

Now, they are gaining traction as combined technologies with practical applications in the business world. “86 percent of people see this technology transforming their company, and we’ve seen a strong willingness to invest across many industries,” according to one expert at Deloitte. As we will find, these capabilities can apply in any variety of industry use cases associated with production, customer experiences, the delivery of services, and others.

 

In this article, we define and explore the potential of 5G and edge computing as combined technologies. We identify use cases, challenges, and best practices for companies on the path to broad implementation of these two technologies as well.

 

Realizing the Potential of 5G & Edge Computing Combined

 

5G and edge computing are broadly discussed within media and business circles for good reason. They have the potential to change the way businesses operate, delivering faster speeds, lower latency, and more reliable connections.

 

5G networks are capable of speeds up to 10 Gbps and latencies as low as 1 millisecond, allowing for faster data transfer and processing speeds. This can enable businesses to process data quickly, making it possible for applications such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to be used in real time.

 

Meanwhile, edge computing brings the power of the cloud closer to where it is needed; that is, data is processed at the edge of the network, close to where it is being generated. This is in contrast to traditional centralized computing, where data is processed in a distant, central location. By decentralizing data and processing, edge computing can reduce latency while providing enhanced security and privacy of data.

 

These technologies work well together to deliver on next-generation digital transformation initiatives within a wide variety of industries. That’s because they deliver fundamental capabilities applicable in nearly any use case where digital technology is required. As Mohini Dukes, an Analyst at Gartner, describes, “The synergies between 5G and mobile edge compute transform the private mobile network infrastructure into a foundational connectivity platform for business digitalization initiatives that rely on real-time insights and data analytics.”

 

Making Real-World Applications Possible

 

According to Dukes, “If we take the benefits of edge computing and combine them with the higher speed of 5G over the equivalent of a “last mile,” entirely new applications are made possible.” Here is a closer look at industries where these technologies can make a substantial positive impact.

 

Healthcare. 5G and edge computing can enable new remote patient services with improved accuracy and reliability, such as the ability to monitor vital signs at a distance in real time. Additional possibilities include augmented reality for medical procedures and remote surgery.

 

Manufacturing. In factories and other manufacturing operations, “5G and edge computing will automate preventative maintenance on machinery and quality sensing of manufacturing lines, which will reduce the amount of human interaction needed,” Deloitte describes. “This will free up resources to instead focus on things like redefining the manufacturing process or product development.”

 

Retail. With the support of 5G and edge computing, AR and VR applications can be deployed in retail stores to provide shoppers with immersive experiences and interactive product information. Additionally, edge computing can deliver more accurate and secure customer data collection while preserving privacy. As Matthew Threefoot, Director for Edge Platforms at Verizon, describes, “We’re even thinking about things like touchless payments, where you don’t have to take out physical cash or a credit card, you could just use the video feeds to see what’s being taken off the shelves and bill the account directly.”

 

Construction. Real-time data collection and analytics, enabled by 5G and edge computing, can improve safety, reduce risk, and optimize project outcomes in the construction industry. For instance, sensors on hazardous machinery can quickly detect potential issues such as overheating or vibrations that could cause a breakdown. In addition, AR technology can be used to provide workers with real-time guidance for projects.

 

Transportation. Vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, powered by 5G and edge computing, can enable automated features such as adaptive cruise control and autonomous driving. Additionally, traffic data can be processed more quickly to provide real-time updates for commuters.

 

Physical Security. Real-time surveillance, enabled by 5G and edge computing, can help improve public safety. For example, video analytics could be used to detect suspicious behaviors in public settings or watch for unauthorized access. Facial analytics can automate access for only approved personnel in laboratories and other secure facilities as well.

 

These are just a few examples of the possibilities that 5G and edge computing as combined technologies offer. Over time, the potential applications of 5G and edge computing will continue to expand, making new business and consumer services possible. Furthermore, with these technologies, businesses can create entirely new innovative services and products that drive new revenue streams while providing significant cost savings.

 

Challenges to 5G & Edge Computing Adoption

 

Despite these opportunities, the adoption of these technologies also introduces new challenges. “Understanding the technology, prioritizing the 5G and edge computing use cases, modeling the financial impacts, navigating the regulatory considerations, and working through change management are all hurdles organizations face,” describes Deloitte. Here is a closer look at these and other challenges, and how business leaders can begin to overcome them.

 

Grasping these technologies is difficult for many business leaders, employees, and customers.

 

As with any new technology, organizations must dedicate resources to understanding the capabilities of 5G and edge computing, as well as the associated costs for implementing these technologies. Companies can begin by experimenting with smaller use cases, such as piloting 5G-enabled IoT devices in a specific area of a factory or retail store. This will help business leaders understand which use cases will benefit the most in the long run.

 

Adopting 5G & edge computing introduces new regulatory considerations.

 

Regulations impact virtually every industry; the introduction of 5G and edge computing may introduce an entirely new paradigm for regulations around security, data privacy, and other areas of concern. Companies must understand the associated requirements and develop a plan to ensure they are compliant in new use cases; they should consider the implications of future use cases as well.

 

Business leaders must prepare for change management across their organizations.

 

Businesses must manage employee expectations and ensure they have the skills needed to operate in a 5G and edge computing-enabled environment. Additionally, organizations need to consider how existing systems will be integrated with these new ones. Business leaders can begin by creating a roadmap to ensure technology and employees are aligned with the organization’s goals.

 

CFOs and other financial leaders must prepare for the costs and drawn-out ROI of 5G & edge computing investments.

 

Companies should evaluate the financial impacts of deploying 5G and edge computing technologies to ensure they are viable investments that can provide returns over time. To begin, financial leaders can create models to understand the costs and benefits associated with specific use cases.

 

We All Must Prepare

 

Perhaps the most critical takeaway from our discussion is that we all must prepare for the disruption of our industries and our lives. As Deloitte describes, “5G and edge computing have the potential to touch all roles and functions, either directly or indirectly.”

 

But while there are challenges to the adoption and successful implementation of these technologies, the benefits far outweigh those challenges. What’s more, there are virtually no competitive alternatives to the capabilities 5G and edge computing can provide—adoption in one form or another may be inevitable. “The most important action organizations can take is to get started today,” says Deloitte.

 

Partner with Uvation for 5G & Edge Computing Adoption

 

Uvation can help you in your adoption of integrated 5G and edge computing technologies. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you prepare your organization for adoption, implementation, and success.