In this episode of The 5G Factor, we focus on what is driving the swift worldwide expansion of 5G services and what next steps are critical for the 5G ecosystem to fulfill its overall potential. We identify the key steps as including understanding 5G Advanced and why it defines the next major phase of 5G, why accelerating the transition to the 5G Standalone (SA) network architecture is essential, and the impact of disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and edge computing on significantly improving 5G capabilities. 

Joining host Ron Westfall is Durga Malladi, SVP & GM, Technology Planning & Edge Solutions, Qualcomm. Their conversation examines the following key topics:

• Why CSPs need to accelerate their transition to 5G SA network architectures to assure that the mobile ecosystem is fully prepared for 5G Advanced.
• How 5G SA enables new differentiated services that can generate revenue streams through capabilities such as network slicing and ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) as well as realizing major cost savings by moving away from maintaining 5G and LTE/4G core networks.
• Only devices in 5G SA mode support new performance enhancements such as power saving features and spectrum aggregation. 
• Where 5G SA is already delivering benefits to CSP networks in key markets such as China and India (Jio). 
• The impact of today’s disruptive technologies, such as AI/ML and edge computing, on driving 5G connectivity improvements in key areas such as better speeds, location accuracy, coverage, link robustness, and mobility. 
• How the 5G network can play a vital role in assuring that CSPs meet their sustainability and ESG objectives.