Affordable Broadband Networks: Connecting the Unconnected in 5G & Beyond

The 5th generation of wireless ICT eco-system is being commercially launched in several countries, based on three important pillars of wireless technology innovation: (a) Low latency, (b) Enhanced gigabits wireless broadband and (c) massive machine type communication. Wireless networks based on 5G and beyond (5G&B) technologies, are also expected to transform the way humans and devices communicate and exchange information services, improve resource utilization and automation of industry. However, the current 5G&B standard is lacking features for affordable broadband to support the broadband connectivity of underserved rural communities. Despite decades of wireless & mobile infrastructure deployments, there are ~3.6 Billion broadband unconnected people globally according to ITU. The main aim of this Panel is to discuss the extension of recent research in unlicensed wireless technologies, including current 5G&B research activities to develop a long-range radio, smart spectrum sharing, energy efficient green networks, self-organizing & software-defined networks and development of 5G test-beds for 5G innovative use cases addressing the requirements of affordable wireless broadband. The current virus crisis clearly showed the importance of broadband connectivity and provision of ICT based societal services in emerging markets and specifically in rural digitally excluded communities. In this panel industries’ view on affordable network technologies in the 5G and beyond research agenda, will be discussed for solutions to address affordable broadband in 5G&B, as we strive to achieve wireless internet connectivity of underserved global communities and improve digital inclusion. The panel will discuss the following affordable broadband themes: (1) Smart spectrum sharing including unlicensed but managed spectrum sharing networks; (2) Energy efficiency including green networking; (3) Network infrastructure and operational cost reduction by technologies such as HAP platforms (Loon), Long range 5G NR, SDN/NFV and self-organizing network technologies; and (4) New policy and business models for connecting the unconnected.