WHAT IS 5G?
5G (fifth generation) is the name of a standard for mobile Internet and mobile telephony. 5G is to build on the existing Long Term Evolution of mobile networking. What makes it so different is that instead of focusing solely on the speed aspect of data, like the preceding networks 3G and 4G, it focuses on reducing the latency (delay) as well as increasing the connection density while also increasing speed.
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So how does this impact gaming and augmented reality?
This video breaks down where 5G has come from, where it is going and the impacts it could have on, not only mobile gaming, but our daily lives.
"5G would allow for higher flexibility in use cases. AR is commonly used on smartphones or tablets in museums to present additional content for exhibits, or for interior design, allowing shoppers to virtually place furniture in a room to see how it matches. With 5G, the ability to use AR in live, outdoor environments away from reliable wi-fi signals can influence the types of interactions and integrations that developers can build." (Sanders, 2019)
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Currently, high costs for data and plans with gigabyte restrictions only allow users so much time spent on data with their mobile devices. The roll out of 5G would create unlimited access for users making augmented reality and gaming accessible to everyone with a compatible device.
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LOOKING TO LEARN MORE?
5G Ted talk
In this inspiring Ted talk, Karan Chahal speaks about "the emerging technology of 5G as well as its powerful applications into today's society. With this revolutionary technology, it is a calling to let people know about the advances happening in the upcoming years and to encourage people to "press play" and jump aboard this technological advancement."