Rotary (1980s) to Smart Phone (2000s) to New IoT Innovations (2030s) – Image by Bijoy Gajjar (Gen AI)
The wireless revolution is just beginning, offering endless opportunities.
This week in September 2024, we witnessed an innovation that sends a powerful message about the future of wireless demand. It’s a clear signal that what lies ahead in wireless technology will redefine the landscape.
For example, Meta’s Orion prototype, with its innovative design for everyday use, represents this future. In 2023, we saw a similar IoT prototype: Apple’s Vision Pro.
IoT innovations like Orion and Vision Pro will have the potential to connect wirelessly through Private 5G, Wi-Fi, Cellular FWA, or Outdoor Broadband, ultimately integrating with Cloud RAN E2E —representing a significant evolution in connectivity.
I envision this as just the beginning of what’s to come—whether you’re at a sports game, in a coffee shop, aboard an aircraft, riding a train, exploring the forest or desert, or relaxing at the beach with absolutely no one present.
If we explore the potential of IoT device use cases such as Vision-Pro/ORION, the profound impact on the wireless industry becomes clear.
Looking ahead to 5G Advanced and the convergence of Open RAN into 6G, the message is clear: (Previous Article: Is ORAN the Next Wireless Revolution?)
New Wireless IoT devices will continue to rise alongside the roadmap for 6G.
Wireless Capacity and QoS demand will increase both indoors and outdoors
Wireless data volumes will soar, with no turning back. Seamless software upgrades will be essential across all network devices.
Data storage needs will multiply, indicating that the ‘Cloud’ will serve as a long-term solution for MNOs and enterprises.
AI and ML, along with analytics and automation, will be key drivers of new solutions.
Security will reach unprecedented levels of importance.
With these key areas in mind, the wireless industry is on the verge of a massive transformation. We’ve transitioned from rotary phones in the 1980s to smartphones in the 2000s, and the next decade will witness an unprecedented “convergence of the Information Technology and Telecommunications sectors”, leading to new innovations in the marketplace.
To facilitate this transformation, chipsets, hardware, software, and innovative end-user devices must evolve and collaborate to meet the anticipated changes.
In conclusion, as we navigate this transformative period, the most important aspects are maintaining a positive mindset and implementing changes cautiously. We are set to encounter a data storm, and updating global infrastructure will be an exciting journey.
Celltene LLC Author’s Disclaimer: With extensive experience in wireless technologies, I provide valuable insights in this article. I welcome feedback and constructive criticism, as my aim is to share my vision and passion for the wireless industry without any financial gain. Your input is invaluable, and I am open to making adjustments based on your suggestions. Please feel free to reach out directly with any areas for improvement or alignment.
Acronyms:
• IoT: Internet of Things
• 5G: Fifth Generation (wireless technology)
• 6G: Sixth Generation (wireless technology)
• QoS: Quality of Service
• FWA: Fixed Wireless Access
• RAN: Radio Access Network
• E2E: End-to-End
• MNO: Mobile Network Operator
• ML: Machine Learning
• AI: Artificial Intelligence
• ORAN: Open Radio Access Network