世界经济论坛-5G展望系列：实现包容性长期机遇（英文）-2021.1-16页_1mb

5G Outlook Series: Enabling Inclusive Long-term Opportunities

Core Content

This report is part of the 5G Outlook Series, analyzing the long-term role of 5G in the context of the global pandemic and economic crisis. It outlines the transformative potential of 5G, emphasizing its importance in driving inclusive growth, enhancing digital transformation, and supporting the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Main Points

• 5G as a foundational technology: 5G infrastructure is expected to be essential for inclusive economic growth and competitiveness in the 2020s and beyond.
• Democratizing computing: 5G has the potential to make computing more accessible, closing the digital divide by enabling access to powerful applications.
• Public-private partnerships: These are critical for successful 5G implementation and broader societal benefits.
• Cross-industry strategy: Countries need a clear strategy for 5G investment and policy to maximize its impact.
• Enabler of emerging technologies: 5G is a general-purpose technology that unlocks the potential of cloud computing, AI, and edge computing.

Key Opportunities for 5G Transformation

The report identifies nine key opportunities for 5G to drive long-term transformation:

1. 5G on the move

• Remote operations: Enable remote management of workplaces, improving productivity and safety through data-driven insights.
• Connected transport: Facilitate real-time vehicle-to-vehicle communication, leading to safer and more efficient transportation systems.
• Mass adoption: Bring a new wave of smart and personalized services, integrating digital and physical lifestyles post-pandemic.

2. 5G on-site

• Smart monitoring: Automate asset management processes, enhancing workplace safety and efficiency.
• Environmental protection: Enable sustainable practices through real-time monitoring and data analysis.
• Autonomous robotics: Improve operational efficiencies by enabling real-time automation for complex and hazardous tasks.

3. 5G in communities

• Democratizing 5G: Encourage broader access to 5G benefits through public-private collaboration.
• Regionalizing 5G: Support deployment in non-urban areas through incentives and early roll-out strategies.
• Experiential living: Transform social interactions, education, and entertainment in communities and urban settings.

Economic Impact

• 5G is projected to add $3.8 trillion or 2% to global gross output by 2035, supporting 22.8 million new jobs.
• The pandemic has accelerated 5G adoption, highlighting its role in enabling remote work, digital transformation, and resilience.
• 80% of mobile traffic now occurs indoors, making 5G's indoor capabilities increasingly relevant.

Challenges and Considerations

• Affordability and accessibility: Ensuring 5G is affordable and accessible to all populations is essential for inclusive growth.
• Energy and environmental concerns: The increased number of connected devices will raise energy demands and data security risks.
• Regulatory and policy support: Harmonized regulations and supportive policies are needed to facilitate 5G deployment and mitigate risks.
• Workforce reskilling: As traditional transportation jobs decline, reskilling programs are necessary to support the transition to new roles in 5G-enabled industries.

Conclusion

5G is set to play a pivotal role in the post-COVID world, driving industrial growth, social cohesion, and national development. Its impact will be felt across multiple sectors, requiring collaboration between public and private entities, strategic investment, and regulatory support. As 5G matures, it will enable a new era of connectivity, automation, and digital transformation, ultimately improving quality of life and economic resilience.

Contributors and Sources

• Insights from global leaders, including CEOs, government officials, and industry experts.
• Case studies from companies such as Telefonica O2, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, China Mobile, KPN, and South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT.
• Data and projections from PwC | Strategy& analysis.

Endnotes

• The document highlights the importance of 5G maturity across different themes.
• It emphasizes the need for cross-industry investment and policy alignment to ensure the successful implementation and widespread benefits of 5G.
• Experiential living, mass adoption, and autonomous robotics are expected to become more mature in the coming years, shaping the future of society and economies.