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5G network operators will need to think big to justify the huge price tag

  • For dedicated followers of entertainment, 5G speeds can be a big draw for virtual reality devotees and gamers
  • For operators, making 5G pay is a big challenge because the network investment is so significant.

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Samsung Electronics unveils the Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G smartphone in San Francisco, California, February 11, 2020. Photo: Reuters

With near warfare breaking out among telecoms rivals over whose network offers the best 5G, and the global feud between Five Eyes members over putative national security concerns related to the adoption of Huawei technology reaching boiling point, the real benefits of these next-generation services can get completely lost in all the noise.

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In the midst of this confusion, what does 5G mean for consumers and businesses?

Since the arrival of the mobile phone in the 1980s there has never been so much overstated publicity about a new technology. Take the 3 network’s latest video, which presents a veritable cornucopia of virtual reality, fulsome fun and folderol.

The message that seems to emerge from all the promotional clatter generated by the 3 network’s ad is that an Aladdin’s magic cave is about to be opened, borrowing for its inspiration from just about every cinematic influence over the past 30 years, including Blade Runner and Total Recall. 

Despite the dizzying cinematic cross references of 3’s video – and one likely needs to be a certain age to catch them all – the big challenge has to be to monetise this huge new investment because the benefits come with a huge price tag.

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