A new study identifies 2023 as a huge inflection point for 5G IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity worldwide, with the next three years set to witness these inflection points.
Juniper Research estimates there have been 17 million 5G IoT connections worldwide this year, but that number will increase by 1,100 percent over the next three years, reaching 116 million active connections by 2026.
The study expects the healthcare sector and smart city services to make up the majority of these connections.
5G IoT
In addition to these two broad categories, other IoT areas include the automotive industry, mobile broadband, and smart homes. However, Juniper estimates that healthcare and smart cities will account for nearly two-thirds of IoT devices by 2026.
It cites the ultra-low latency and high bandwidth typical of 5G connections as some of the key drivers behind the massive growth that has been predicted.
Of the projected 116 million connections, the research indicates 60 million connections are from smart city connections. Both road and rail transport networks will benefit from 5G’s improvements over 4G technology.
Juniper also noted the inefficiencies our healthcare system has identified during the pandemic, pointing to the need for modernization. Real-time, remote monitoring of connected ambulances and other emergency services is one such upgrade proposed.
The rollout of 5G IoT connectivity has been less than impressive so far. Looking ahead, study co-author Olivia Williams noted the need to invest in high-return areas before expanding more broadly:
“5G will enable more efficient and dynamic healthcare delivery not possible with 4G or Wi-Fi. However, healthcare providers must first implement 5G in areas of high ROI; most notably connected emergency services.”