5G technology is being called upon to profoundly change a countless range of business sectors. From telecommunications – perhaps the most obvious – to logistics and even energy management. However, the 5G network is also shaping up to be the ideal breeding ground for one business sector more than any, where real benefits can be reaped: startups and emerging companies.

Most startups face two key hurdles in their early stages of development, limited costs and infrastructure that’s almost always poor or in poor condition. 5G coverage, alongside the opportunity to use connectivity as a driver of change, will allow startups, among other things, to:

• Tackle traditionally complex tasks in a simpler and more intuitive manner.
• Reduce costs and take advantage of technology to simplify and make processes cheaper.
• Use 5G technology to take advantage of off-shoring.

Sectors particularly favourable to use of 5G

Although the benefits mentioned above can be applied to virtually all areas of business and industrial development, there are some that could squeeze even more potential from 5G connectivity. Low latency and the speed of transmission involving vast amounts of data can substantially transform various fields, such as transport or the health and social sector, for example.

Many startups that have their sights set on implementing technology for autonomous driving, smart signage or next-generation roads, which also involves AI, will find an important ally in 5G. There are also those evaluating the emergence of new forms of air transport and transmitting data in real time with drones and even larger aircraft. This will transform not only communications, but also last-mile security and logistics, for example.

Tracking vital signs in real-time through smart connected wearable technology will greatly facilitate the work of doctors and health specialists. Startups that are developing specific APPs have been exploring this ground for some time now. The first step could be to have our complete medical history on a tablet, smartphone or even a smartwatch. Another step could be fashion accessories capable of monitoring our health status 24/7.

5G mobility and flexibility, key factors for startups

One of the prevailing philosophies among emerging companies is that of the lean startup, committed to agility, flexibility and dynamism when designing and bringing minimally viable products, services and prototypes to market. First, you test the product or solution in question. Then, you refine, test and make improvements. This process – carried out at the lowest possible cost, of course – fits perfectly with the current conditions on the business and industrial markets.

Today, neither jobs nor the way we do them need to be tied to large office complexes or multinational infrastructure any more. A small team, not necessarily even sharing the same space or country, and with very little in the way of mobile technology, can carry out ambitious projects at reduced costs. All without compromising the amount of information transferred, data security or network stability, all thanks to 5G.

Neutral operators are responsible for doing everything they can to contribute, not just to the ultimate implementation and maximum use of the 5G network, but also to be drivers of change for startups that, due to their very nature and dynamism, are being called upon to change society for the better.