2017年-CEPS欧洲政策研究中心_European_Leadership_in_5G_35页_1mb

Summary of "European Leadership in 5G" In-Depth Analysis

Core Content

This document provides an in-depth analysis of the 5G concept and its strategic importance for the European Union (EU). It explores the technological advancements, business models, and policy considerations for the deployment of 5G, which is expected to be the next generation of mobile communication systems. The report was prepared for the European Parliament's Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) and outlines the EU's position in the global 5G race.

Main Viewpoints

• 5G Definition and Scope: 5G is still being defined, though it is generally seen as the next major phase of cellular radio communications technology. It aims to provide improved performance, higher bandwidth, and the use of smaller cells for denser coverage, especially in urban areas.

• Technological Development: The report highlights several key technological advancements, including network function virtualisation (NFV), self-optimising networks (SON), advanced signal processing, and directional beamforming. These innovations are expected to enable 5G to support a wide range of applications and services.

• 5G and Other Connectivity Options: 5G is viewed as a complement to existing technologies like Wi-Fi, LTE, and fixed broadband. It can also serve as a substitute in certain scenarios, such as replacing fibre to the home (FTTH) or xDSL connections. However, due to its reliance on high frequencies, 5G may be more suited to urban environments than rural ones.

• Application Areas: 5G is expected to have a significant impact on several sectors, including:

  • The entertainment industry (high-speed media delivery)
  • Domestic video appliance networks
  • Intelligent transport systems
  • Business internet and networking
  • Building messaging and control systems

• Challenges and Uncertainties: The document points out that while 5G offers great potential, there are several uncertainties, such as the demand for 5G services, the viability of business models, and the availability and cost of spectrum. It also raises concerns about the limited range of high-frequency 5G bands, which may restrict its applicability to densely populated areas.

• Spectrum Policy and Standards: The report discusses the importance of spectrum policy in enabling 5G, with a focus on spectrum sharing and the allocation of bands above 24 GHz. It also highlights the role of standards development organizations (SDOs) in shaping the future of 5G.

Key Information

5G Concept Overview

• 5G is a fifth-generation mobile communications system that promises significantly improved performance, higher bandwidth, and more flexible network configurations.
• It is seen as a crucial enabler for the Internet of Things (IoT), smart devices, and future communication infrastructure.
• The 5G PPP (Public-Private Partnership) is a major EU initiative that aims to develop 5G not only as a new network but as the next generation of communication infrastructure.

Current State of Play in the EU

• The EU has been actively involved in 5G R&D, with key industry players and consortia working on various aspects of the technology.
• The EU's 5G roadmap, from 2016 to 2025, outlines a long-term strategy for developing the necessary infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

Business Models and Bottlenecks

• The demand for 5G services is still uncertain, and the industry has not yet established clear and viable business models.
• High-frequency bands may offer more bandwidth but come with limitations in range and coverage.
• There are concerns about the sustainability of 5G in the face of competition from OTT services and the potential for over-investment in infrastructure without clear demand.

Policy Recommendations

• The report recommends a more precise definition of goals and scope for 5G industrial policy.
• It advocates for long-term technology research to support the development of a new communications infrastructure.
• Spectrum policy should focus on sharing and the allocation of bands above 24 GHz.
• Shorter-term applications for 5G, particularly in small-cell networks, should be identified and supported.

Conclusion

The document suggests that while 5G has the potential to play a significant role in the EU's economy and technological development, the current lack of clear demand and viable business models raises concerns. It calls for a strategic and targeted approach to policy support, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of both the opportunities and challenges associated with 5G deployment.

Key Figures and Tables

• Figure 1: 5G PPP Vision of the Future 5G Infrastructure
• Figure 2: Summary of 5G Advances Categorised by Function
• Table 1: Largest Patent Holders of 5G Technologies
• Table 2: Recommendations Ranked According to Their Likely Impact

Authors and Contact

• Authors: Colin Blackman, Camford Associates Ltd; Simon Forge, SCF Associates Ltd.
• Responsible Administrator: Frédéric Gouardères
• Editorial Assistant: Irene Vernacotola
• Contact: Policy Department A, Economic and Scientific Policy, European Parliament, B-1047 Brussels, E-mail: Poldep-Economy-Science@ep.europa.eu

Disclaimer

The opinions expressed in this document are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Parliament.