With tens of billions of connected devices expected to be in use over the next few years, the coming 5G network will play an instrumental role. Not only will 5G accommodate the exceedingly high demand for data, but will provide clear pathways for Internet of Things (IoT) devices to communicate with each other. The relationship between 5G and the IoT extends well beyond maintaining high-quality connectivity and ensuring high-quality communication between devices.
One of the primary uses for IoT devices is data collection, in an effort for companies and governments of all levels to learn more about the tendencies, routines, and preferences of their users and citizens. While it might seem rather straightforward at first, the process of data transfer between IoT devices and the cloud is a very delicate process that must be facilitated by a reliable path, which the power of 5G connectivity will help ensure. The graphic below from Intel provides a visual depiction of the journey data that is transferred from IoT devices to the cloud takes, and how the 5G network will serve as a pivotal catalyst.