The technology available to businesses and organizations is expanding faster than ever before. And as those tools, applications and systems become more sophisticated, they require more specialized tools to get the most out of them.
When it comes to the Internet of Things (IoT), connectivity is like a bottle opener, and 5G is one of the best wines on the market. Reliable and fast internet connectivity will enable connecting large numbers of IoT devices and data-driven applications such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) avatars and immersive experiences.
Giving users the ability to securely, quickly and seamlessly connect to a variety of data sources will open up a world of innovation and new possibilities for businesses, while industries such as fashion, film and gaming could be transformed by 5G-enabled technology.
A rapid revolution in fashion
A technology that was once only found in science fiction movies is now providing practical, real-world support to those working in the fashion industry. 5G is a breakthrough that will break boundaries in the industry, allowing creators and audiences to seamlessly connect and collaborate virtually. Take Scotland Redesign’s Hidden Floors project, which allowed local fashion designers to collaborate hundreds of miles apart and showcase their digital work in a virtual exhibition space over the 5G network.
5G-enabled technology has not only created the opportunity to connect with buyers around the world, but it has also had a significant impact on the environment and costs by reducing the need for travel to buyers and holding physical runway shows in various locations.
In fact, the ORDRE report found that an estimated 241,000 tonnes of CO2 The emissions produced by traveling buyers and designers to international fashion weeks are equivalent to burning 1,205 rail cars of coal – one way 5G-enabled technology could help reduce the fashion industry’s environmental impact.
Raising the bar in the gaming and esports industry
Another creative cluster that has not only embraced but also benefited from advanced connectivity is the gaming and esports industry.
5G-enabled technology has taken sports entertainment to a whole new level. By providing low-latency, high-bandwidth connections, players can download large files quickly and stream seamlessly without interruptions or lags. In an industry where split-second differences can mean the difference between winning and losing, a strong connection is essential.
And it’s not just for fun anymore: some value the UK games sector at £7.05 billion, with an estimated £350 million of that contributing to the Scottish economy.
5G for VR and AR platforms will also play a role in enhancing live streaming and spectator viewing of esports events, and while these technologies are not new, they previously required wired connections and bulky hardware to handle the heavy processing.
5G will enable users to stream high-definition (HD) content and support simultaneous interaction from multiple players without the need for a tethered connection, creating a more collaborative and seamless gaming experience for fans and players alike.
Pushing the boundaries of virtual production
In the film and broadcast industry, 5G will create new opportunities for content creation, distribution, and consumption of digital entertainment. Faster, more flexible, and more reliable connections will enable production companies to stream HD video and seamlessly upload large files to the cloud. In addition, VR and AR technologies will enable remote collaboration in real time, reducing production costs and timelines.
But this is just the beginning: 5G continues to roll out and, while its full potential is yet to be realised, Abertay University and our consortium of partners are already making big waves in the UK screen industry.
Using new virtual production techniques, actors were able to collaborate in real time from remote locations, connected by a 5G internet connection. Demonstrating the true power of wireless virtual production, the project used computer-generated imagery (CGI) and HD LED screens for motion capture to support real-time interaction.
Not only is this a climate-friendly approach to production as it reduces the need for travel, but it’s also a faster, cheaper and more effective alternative to green screens.
As an enabler technology, 5G’s enhanced capabilities will be the key creative organizations need to unlock the world of IoT and the benefits it brings. 5G will continue to develop and evolve, fueling the future growth of the creative industries and giving organizations the tools they need to access different ways of working and collaborating. All you need is a bottle opener.
