5G technology explained
5G is the latest global wireless standard, designed to connect everything from smartphones to smart infrastructure, at speeds and capabilities far beyond 4G.
It can support up to 1 million devices per square kilometer (compared to only 2,000 for 4G), while offering ultra-low latency and reducing delays from over 100 milliseconds to just 1 millisecond. This enables real-time communication between devices, making devices like autonomous transport, remote healthcare and energy efficient buildings a reality.
5G also strengthens end-to-end security, which is crucial if protecting both city infrastructure and citizens’ personal data. For cities looking to build resilience against cyber threats, this is a game-changer.
What is a smart city?
The European Commission defines a smart city as:
“A place where traditional networks and services are made more efficient with the use of digital solutions for the benefit of its inhabitants and business.”
A smart city is about more than just connectivity and technology. It utilises digital capabilities to create a sustainable, supportive and responsive urban environment, with the purpose of bettering the lives of residents and visitors, and allowing businesses and public services to run more effectively.
From Singapore’s AI-driven traffic control to Amsterdam’s intelligent energy systems, leading smart cities are already proving how technology can revolutionise urban living. Closer to home, Sunderland in North East England is leveraging 5G to create a connected ecosystem across transport, housing, healthcare, and education. Through a strategic partnership with Boldyn Networks, the city is rolling out 5G infrastructure, ensuring equal access to digital services and unlocking economic growth.
How does 5G level up smart cities?
5G is the backbone of the Internet of Things (IoT), providing the ultra-fast speeds and low latency necessary to manage vast amounts of data in real time.
Smart cities rely on millions of interconnected devices, ranging from traffic sensors to healthcare monitoring. 5G ensures that data is processed instantly, allowing for seamless automation and improved decision-making. Without 5G, the volume of information generated by smart cities would overwhelm existing networks, leading to inefficiencies and delays.
This capability transforms key aspects of urban life, enhancing:
- Connectivity at scale: Millions of sensors can collect real-time data on everything from air quality to energy usage.
- Traffic management: Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication optimises traffic flow and improves road safety.
- Smart lighting: Streetlights adjust brightness based on real-time conditions, eradicating energy waste.
- Public safety: High-speed, real-time video surveillance enhances emergency response.
- Smart parking: Connected systems direct drivers to available spots, reducing congestion.
- Environmental monitoring: 5G-powered sensors track pollution levels, noise and water quality.
- Healthcare access: Remote monitoring and telemedicine become more effective with high-speed, low-latency networks.
The road ahead
Governments and city planners are already leveraging 5G to boost productivity, reduce costs, and close the digital divide. From AI-powered crowd control to real-time asset tracking, the potential is enormous.
But the true power of 5G lies in its ability to create a more inclusive, efficient and sustainable future for cities, and for the people who live in them.
With 5G, the vision of a seamlessly connected, intelligent city is no longer a concept, it’s becoming reality.
