The world ’ s economy is at another pivotal stage as technologies such as artificial intelligence , the Internet of Things ( IoT ), and virtual / augmented reality transition from early stage applications to engines of economic growth . A critical catalyst to realize this growth is the fifth generation of wireless technology , or 5G .

5G is not simply an extension of 4G , nor is it merely a faster wireless capability offering more capacity and enhanced performance for smartphones . 5G makes possible the connection and interaction of billions of devices of almost any kind and collection of data from those devices . In addition to connecting people to people through their smartphones , 5G connects an unlimited number of things , which can communicate all day , every day . The business opportunity for 5G technology to influence productivity and automation is anticipated to have a seismic impact to macro economies .

Enabled by 5G , the volume and variety of connected device types and the data they generate and consume are expected to dramatically increase within and across enterprises . This networking technology now provides a range of customizable capabilities that can be “ fit for purpose ” to specific solution requirements , resulting in game changing opportunities to drive new revenue streams and unprecedented operating efficiencies . For example , in retail , next generation personalized customer experience is now possible with on-site intelligent analytics that combines location based , realtime customer data with accurate pricing , inventory and competitive information across stores and regions . In manufacturing , high performance campus 5G networks can simultaneously raise the quality of precision manufacturing with real time sensors , while untethered factory robots bring new levels of flexibility . The low latency property of 5G also provides numerous opportunities to realize the potential of the examples provided above .

In addition , 5G solutions will also involve an architectural shift where critical analytics and artificial intelligence functions will be executed in close proximity to the connected devices . Edge computing capabilities enabled by 5G will drive higher accuracy , efficiency , and results to the device or devices across secure private or public networks . Further , in typically low connectively locations , such as oil rigs , mining , and agriculture , 5G makes it possible for IoT devices with minimal computing power and low-speed connectivity to “ behave ” like powerful computers using a similar 5G / edge computing architecture .

5G will likely create numerous business opportunities across all industries . To be able to realize the benefits , many business processes and solution architectures will need to be overhauled . Deloitte recognizes that unlocking 5G ’ s potential at enterprises requires both technical and industry expertise combined with multiple functional disciplines , including next gen networking , cloud , and AI . In collaboration with SAP , we are taking an industry vertical , multi-disciplinary approach to assist enterprise clients to envision and develop 5G enabled transformational solutions .

Deloitte ’ s 5G Center of Excellence brings the breadth , depth , and scale of our practice to create practical solutions and opportunities for our clients to utilize the capabilities of 5G to transform their business and market .

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