Ultra high-speed 5G cell networks will soon be available in Cayman, regulators believe.
The next-generation technology, which facilitates faster internet speeds and greater connectivity between devices, has been hailed as a breakthrough development that could lead to a new wave of innovation.
Up to 20 times faster than current networks, global technology experts believe it could help realise the full potential of drone deliveries, driverless cars and cloud-connected traffic control, among other innovations. It could also revolutionise entertainment and television coverage – allowing sports fans, for example, to view a Formula One race from the angle of the driver.
More pertinently, for Cayman, it would also facilitate better options for remote working and business meetings, for example.
Sonji Myles, executive director for ICT at OfReg, said the regulator is taking a “dynamic approach” to ensure Cayman’s operators can roll out 5G networks as quickly as possible.
He said discussions were ongoing with Cayman’s mobile providers.
“That will ultimately mean that they can start building up their networks within the next few months and hopefully have 5G service offered here in the Cayman Islands by the end of the year or sometime into next year,” he added.
In an in-depth interview with the Compass, Myles explains the potential of 5G for the island.
What is the fuss about 5G?
SM: With all the buzz in the media about 5G, it is easy to misconstrue it as mere hype, but that would be a mistake. 5G promises to provide greater speeds and connect more devices than its 4G predecessor, while also improving reliability, flexibility and security.
The greater capability and capacity of 5G networks promise to transform all of society by transforming whole industries, as well as how we connect and interact.
It will impact all human-to-human, machine-to-machine, machine-to-human and network-to-network interactions. It will facilitate the convergence of current technology trends including, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing and extended reality, which includes augmented reality and virtual reality.
Aren’t mobile web speeds fast enough already?
SM: The exponential growth of information sharing and volume of data has the effect of outpacing the capacity of the networks. It is a cycle of demand driving innovation.
We must also appreciate that the nature of the information is always changing, becoming more complex.
During the earlier generations of the networks, the information was of a simpler structure, basically voice and text. Now, information is super enriched and much more complex, therefore, requiring more network capacity to cope.
This is especially true as the concentration of consumers increase and compete for limited bandwidth.
What new innovation could this facilitate?
SM: Since 5G networks deliver faster, more reliable and secure communications with greater capacity, they open the doors to many new opportunities.
New opportunities include: enhanced video supporting 4K, 8K and 360-degree formats, live streaming of sports and entertainment, vehicle connectivity and entertainment, as well as music and gaming applications.
This all provides an enhanced immersive experience, especially when combined with machine learning, artificial intelligence, augmented reality and virtual reality.
Consider how sporting events will be further enhanced when spectators can engage in a more immersive and interactive manner. Imagine the experience of an F1 fan from the vantage point of their favourite driver.
There are bigger, industry innovations, such as smart factory automation and safety applications, connected vehicle fleets and remote health diagnostic services. These are but a few ways in which the technology will benefit society by transforming industries, economies and our social structures.
The advanced connectivity enables things like smart traffic lights, driverless cars, drone deliveries – other revolutions in the ‘internet of things’ – how could this benefit Cayman?
SM: There are many ways the Cayman Islands can benefit from the enhanced transformations enabled by these technologies – from increased automation and monitoring of critical systems and infrastructure to improved efficiencies, service levels and reliability in the areas of the utilities.
Healthcare could be changed incredibly via remote medical support, monitoring of patients and special needs residents.
How important a development could the introduction of 5G be for the islands’ economy. Why?
SM: The Cayman Islands enjoys a high standard of living due to the development of its infrastructure and economic sectors.
This must continue at pace if we are to realise our goal to maintain the high standards we’ve set for ourselves. Our tele-density statistics and access to sophisticated telecommunications services are among the best in the world.
The significance of 5G is not just doing the same things faster, with low latency and high bandwidth.
It is the driving force of the 4th industrial revolution, which is blurring the line between the physical and digital worlds.
5G represents the next step on the path and it will allow us to better deliver all of the benefits the technology promises in the Cayman Islands.
Will it require the whole new roll-out of physical infrastructure?
SM: Licensees already have sufficient infrastructure in place to allow them to commence planning and building their 5G networks.
The nature of the current and future networks is that they benefit from convergence, meaning that multiple services are able to run over the same physical infrastructure. Where licensees already have 4G infrastructure, it will support their 5G roll out.
Are you concerned about geographical inequality with George Town and surrounding areas getting 5G while East End and outer districts are left behind?
SM: OfReg continues to engage with industry to ensure all service providers roll out their networks and services to meet their obligations of nation-wide coverage.
We continue to work to clear obstacles to rollout and ensure that consumers have access to choice and get what they pay for.
OfReg will take any necessary regulatory action to ensure services are being rolled out to all communities across the three islands.
Licensees are also expected to make necessary investment and undertake development to compete and provide choice.
Are you expecting an application to bring 5G to Cayman soon – if so, what will that involve and what conditions will be attached?
SG: 5G is coming to Cayman and we are working with licensees to ensure they have what they need to roll out their networks. We expect services to begin to be available in late 2022 or early 2023.
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