BT and Nokia have teamed up to research the next generation of mobile communications, dubbed 5G, which is expected to dramatically boost mobile data speeds.
The two companies will collaborate on potential customer use cases for 5G technologies, the creation of 5G Proof of Concept (PoC) trials and the development of the emerging technology standards and equipment.
According to a statement, the trials will focus on the technology enablers for 5G including mmWave radio and convergence, as well as potential commercial services including ultrafast mobile broadband, mission-critical services and the ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT).
It’s anticipated that 5G could deliver speeds “of multiple Gigabits,” allowing for the simultaneous streaming of data-heavy content such as virtual reality or live 360 degree video.
In addition, lower latency times would make real-time engagement between remote users and systems possible, an improvement the firms say would be “essential” for driverless cars and next generation mobile gaming.
Howard Watson, CEO of BT Technology, Service & Operations, said: “Our EE mobile business already boasts the biggest 4G network in the UK, which is set to cover 95 per cent of the country by 2020.
“We will build on that foundation to develop the next generation of LTE-Advanced Pro and 5G services over the next few years. It’s still early days for 5G technology, but experience tells us that a collaborative approach is key to success.
“We’re delighted to be working with Nokia to drive a common approach to 5G, and to develop exciting use cases which bring together our combined experience in fixed and mobile technologies.”
Cormac Whelan, head of the UK & Ireland at Nokia, said: “5G is the communications technology of the future, and it will transform how we communicate with each other, as well as communicate with devices and ‘things’.
“Nokia is delighted to be working with BT in laying the foundations for 5G adoption in the coming years, and in helping define how this technology will enable exciting and innovative experiences.”