Ericsson showcases potential for 5G to fuel digital transformation

An abstract network graphic overlaid on an aerial view of a motorway network.

Ericsson has presented an action plan for mobile operators to make the most of 5G technologies, including how to generate revenues from IoT and automation.

The guide to capturing the 5G industry digitalisation business potential claims that those offering 5G technologies will be able to grow revenues by up to 36% ($619 billion for the average network), by ensuring they focus on 10 key sectors when introducing 5G innovations.

Ericsson looked at 400 use cases to compile the report, 200 of which are focused on sectors where 5G is expected to play a "vital" role. It identified that businesses most able to boost their profits with 5G operate in industries covering energy and utilities, manufacturing, public safety, healthcare, public transport, media and entertainment, automotive, financial services and retail and agriculture verticals.

The company also identified nine technology clusters likely to take 90% of the share of success, of which real-time automation has the opportunity to have the biggest impact, potentially generating $101 billion by 2026. Video was also highlighted in the report, responsible for up to $96 billion by 2026.

"Our case studies have shown that operators employ strategic and operational activities to address challenges facing the success of their offerings," Thomas Noren, head of 5G commercialisation at Ericsson, said. "Even though they're not yet 5G offerings, these activities such as go-to-market channels and trial and experimentation will be equally important, if not more, when evolved towards 5G."

Ericsson's report explained that of the total 5G-related revenues, up to 47% can be obtained by networks, taking advantage of the insights the tech firm has released in its report.

The company explained the next few years will be key for businesses to test 5G use cases. The majority of businesses wil trial services this year, with 70% of the use cases active by 2021.

Picture credit: Bigstock

Clare Hopping
Freelance writer

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.