Three, Ireland's largest mobile network, has become the first Irish operator to launch 5G Standalone, the next evolution of 5G that has the potential to accelerate innovation across industries and unlock exciting opportunities for businesses and consumers.
The 5G Standalone technology, powered by Ericsson, will be available to select corporate customers initially on a trial basis, allowing them to test and trial its capabilities.
The 5G network uses a 5G dedicated core network, which allows for faster speeds, lower latency, and higher device density and capacity. In contrast, all 5G capabilities currently rely on a 4G radio coverage footprint and 4G core network, so even though speeds and latency have improved, there is still a reliance on 4G.
Businesses can harness the full potential of 5G technology with 5G Standalone, ushering in a new era of connectivity that will empower industries and change the way many operate today. 5G Standalone technology enables a wide range of possibilities, such as remote operation of unmanned mobile vehicles and equipment, logistics inventory robots, enhanced Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), real-time manufacturing process controls, and real-time sports analysis, all of which help athletes perform better.
Among the advantages of 5G Standalone technology is its feature of 'network slicing' that enables the creation of virtual end-to-end networks tailored to specific business needs. This capability allows for greater efficiency in supporting various businesses. The unique network exposure functions of 5G Standalone technology are emphasized for providing new business capabilities and fostering innovation. The technology is particularly noted for ensuring exceptional performance and seamless connectivity in critical applications, such as Public Safety/First Responders, including Paramedics, Fire Brigade, Garda, and Disaster Recovery Teams.
Three Ireland has teamed up with Technological University Shannon (TUS) to test 5G Standalone technology and begin demonstrating its capabilities in real-world scenarios.
