Global 5G firms create new forum to enhance 5G interoperability specs

The proliferation of the fifth generation wireless technology has been disrupting the networking domain increasingly by the day. Prominent members of the global cellular industry are becoming more and more focused on undertaking several individual as well as collaborative projects to lay the foundation for future 5G developments.

For instance, noted operators Verizon, Vodafone, Rogers, KT, América Móvil and Telstra have reportedly joined hands to create the 5G Future Forum. This group is designed to work jointly on 5G interoperability across the globe, in order to expedite the adoption of the technology.

While the initial and second international 5G standard releases have gained significant stability, the new forum will focus on developing technologies powered by 5G, for example mobile-edge computing. This technology will help overcome network latency issues and enhance overall data performance.

Sources with knowledge of the matter claim that the 5G Future Forum will be focused on creating uniform specifications for interoperable 5G, as well as marketplaces to aid the deployment of 5G solutions by developers & companies across the globe. The forum will also feature the best global practices for technology deployment shared by the founding members.

Hans Vestberg, Verizon CEO has reportedly stated that 5G is a key contributor to the next industrial revolution. He claimed that the technology has the potential to transform lifestyles and expressed his belief that this alliance was necessary to establish a seamless 5G experience for global customers.

CEOs of the fellow forum members, including Daniel Hajj, América Móvil CEO, has also commented on the perceived effect of the group’s efforts to enhance 5G applications not just in individual nations, but across the world.

One noticeable omission on the 5G Future Forum member list, is the absence of a carrier from China. This is considered surprising, considering that 5G deployment in China is fairly largescale and ambitious. The omission may stem from security concerns that have arisen regarding China’s networking hardware.

These concerns pertain particularly, albeit not exclusively to the components made by government-backed firm Huawei, which are implemented in China’s 5G networks as well. These security concerns may be the driving force behind the Forum members’ pursuit of alternative solutions.

 

Source Credit: https://venturebeat.com/2020/01/15/verizon-rogers-and-vodafone-form-global-5g-interoperability-group/