Fifth-generation wireless technology (5G) is the next generation of wireless network technology that fuels innovation and transforms the way we live, work, and play. 5G promises lightning-fast, extremely reliable, and low-cost machine-to-machine communications. 5G is believed to enable “Sci-Fi like” use cases that previous generations of wireless technology cannot support. 4G pales compared with 5G in terms of speed, latency, spectrum frequency, and other factors.
So, what does 5G mean for the future of wearable devices? As it stands, wearables won’t receive major benefits from 5G since 5G is about the high speed with large amounts of data. Wearable devices generally only transmit small amounts of data at low power, which 5G isn’t good at, although there is work on extending the 5G standard to include IoT. Current-gen wearables typically come with mobile connectivity, with most users linking our wearables to our phone via Bluetooth connectivity. Some devices connect through WiFi.
Meanwhile, 4G and its NB-IoT and LTE-M services finally got installed in enough cell towers that in 2020 they provided service to over 90% of the US population and a large part of the world. NB-IoT and LTE-M offer low-power connections directly to the Internet, bypassing cellphones and WiFi hot spots. Wearable users can connect to the Internet even without a cellphone, which is often the case when exercising. This can be beneficial for different circumstances, including an alternative way for battered women to call for help or elders to automatically send alerts when they experience any health concern.
Other Resources:
More information about 5G: https://www.volersystems.com/5g-whats-real-and-whats-hype/
Wireless technology for IoT: https://info.volersystems.com/download-wireless-technology-overview-for-iot
5G is rapidly being deployed worldwide. There are many promises of vastly improved speed and reliability, but there are limitations that depend upon the frequency band in use and the service class. Learn what is real and what is hype in the promotion of 5G. IoT will not benefit from 5G for the time being, although NB-IoT and LTE-M are expected to remain compatible with 5G. Learn More
Business innovators should then consider developing their projects with current-gen 4G using NB-IoT or LTE-M, which is ready now. Voler offers businesses expert guidance on designing and developing next-generation IoT and wearable devices. Voler helps select the right technology for IoT devices and determines the right combination of electronics for guaranteed security and reliability. Talk to an expert from Voler to learn more.
Located in Silicon Valley and with more than 40 years of electronic design experience, Voler Systems continues to be a leading custom product design consulting company providing high-quality electrical engineering and firmware development. Voler Systems ensures delivery of quality products, on time, on budget with low risk. All projects are undertaken with good specifications, the right people, quality design, constant communication, and a smooth transfer to manufacturing.