The advent and continuous evolvement of new technologies, is unarguably creating a wide array of services in the digital global space. As digital technologies are ushering in new possibilities such as improved broadband services, smart cities evolution, financial services and inclusion, e-commerce, education to mention but a few, there is also increasing consumer expectations for new services and solutions to address some of the challenges of our daily lives.
To this end, the fifth generation technology as it is popularly called; is one of the new technologies identified and regarded as a game changer. The emergence of 5G network is a story that cannot be told without first tracing the evolution of G that has dominated the discuss for decade where in late December of 1979, in Tokyo Japan it all began as 1G.
The then Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) of Japan launched the first global commercial mobile phones cellular telecom network. This was the first time a number without a human interface would connect call. This was not identified with any G prefix.
Being an analogue mobile cellular phone too heavy to be carried by users, it was then built into cars to transmit low voice quality from mobile location, NTT technology began to spread in early 1991, 22 years later across the globe which necessitated the launch of 2G by Finland which is called the 2nd Generation mobile network. This was based on an emerging standard. The global system for mobile communications was originally called Groupe Special Mobile or GSM to differentiate NTT of Japan’s technology which was named 1 generation.
The introduction of radio digital signal was done by 2G and other mobile data like text messaging and packet delivery services at 9.6kilobites/secs. As the regulatory body of the communications services, the Nigerian Communications Commission which has spear-headed the drive for internet availability, accessibility and its affordability, has continued to drive the reach of the internet which has birthed the call for a global transformation of the 4G and 5G.
The internet services exploded due to the success of the 4G network. This has made interoperability between the various technologies.
The long term evolution (LTE) standards which is the 4G and the 5G has been in the front burner of everydiscuss today as it relates to tech transformation. The clamour for 5G has dominated the public space as the NCC has continuously drawn the attention of the masses to the relevance of 5G network.
As the demand for mobile internet service exploded following the success of 2G, 3G,4G and the rise of 5G, The Nigerian Communications Commission, (NCC), has assured Nigerians that the ongoing 5G technology consultation would address issues of health, myth and security related worries.
The Executive Vice Chairman took time to dispel insinuations that the introduction of 5G technology was the reason behind the spread of the novel COVID-19 Pandemic. From the above stand point, it is evident that 5G has come to stay. It is pertinent that Nigerians should key into its positive milestone rather than the myth which has not been proven by any certified regulatory body.
