What’s Happening in the 5G World in 2021

The 5G revolution is unfolding before our very eyes – but if you don’t look closely, you’ll miss it.

5G, or fifth-generation of cellular technology, has been promising lightning fast speeds and incredible bandwidths since its initial announcement in 2019.

However, it was still a far-off reality at the time. 5G’s intensity requires a substantial technological infrastructure to actually deliver on those wow-factor promises. At the time, the network lacked the foundation for 5G to become the national standard of connectivity.

Since then, leaders in tech and communications have been working ardently to build the network to host 5G – and they’re not doing it alone.

Commercial real estate plays a significant role in preparing for the full-bodied launch of 5G. Being at the forefront of the commercial scene, CRE’s network of buildings will be primary homes to 5G tools and apps. This is creating a substantial link between this new technology and commercial real estate.

CRE pros need to keep their eyes on 5G’s progress. Here’s what we need to be watching in the 5G space for the new year:

Tracking 2020’s Progress

2020 was expected to be the year that 5G took off. This prediction only came true to a certain degree. In 2020, 5G has been slowly rolling out. The transition from 4G to 5G is proving to be a slower process than initially expected.

4G LTE remains the bulk processor for mobile network connections. Meanwhile, 5G’s infrastructure is gradually being built. Today, the primary goal of cellular companies is focused on development. Setting up, perfecting the tools, and working on facilitating a seamless transition remains top of mind for 5G in 2020.

The jump to 5G is immense. When 5G becomes the standard, running at its full potential, the world will see the tech boost we’ve all been waiting for.

What’s To Come in 2021

Announcements have already been made that 5G will be coming into tangible effect in the new year. Apple has already claimed that 60% of its new phones will be running on 5G in 2021. AT&T is also planning to scale its 5G network in the new year.

When this happens, the world’s latent tech capacity will finally be able to come into play. Right now, we have many technologies, such as smart cities and IoT buildings, that aren’t yet at their fullest potentials. 5G will provide the necessary power and speed to give the world a demonstration of the heights of modern tech.

In 2021, 5G will continue to be more active in the mainstream. By the time we’re approaching 2022, it’s possible that we’ll be on the precipice of a full 5G activation.

Impacts on the Commercial Space

In the coming years, expect PropTech to erupt across all sectors. Commercial real estate will be at the forefront of 5G’s transition – and professionals in this industry need to be ready to carry the weight. As we prepare to welcome 2021, now is a good time to strengthen the tech infrastructures of commercial portfolios.