Understanding 5G network

What is 5G? If you’ve asked yourself this question, have no shame. The buzz surrounding this cellular network has led many people to wonder what exactly all the hype is about. Some have even protested against it for . Nevertheless, 5G is here to stay. But explaining what 5G actually is becomes a bit technical. To keep things simple, and a bit more entertaining, we’ll let Bill Nye take on this task: With 5G transforming the way we communicate worldwide, autonomous driving will soon become one of the biggest beneficiaries of this high-speed communication.

5G and autonomous driving

Recently, Honda and Verizon conducted research on the use of 5G and mobile edge computing (MEC) on connected and autonomous vehicles. The purpose of this research was to improve communication between vehicles and the road. Also, the pedestrians nearby. Ehsan Moradi Pari, Ph.D, research lead at Honda’s Advanced Technology Research Division : “While the research is preliminary and not intended as a product feature at this time, 5G-enabled vehicle communication and MEC have the potential to advance safety for everyone sharing the road.” Therefore, this research is not only crucial to the development of but it will likely decrease the amount of accidents as a result. With further research and the help of Artificial Intelligence technologies, there is a strong possibility we'll make it to autonomous driving much faster thanks to 5G connection.

To better understand the research performed by Honda and Verizon, check out the three test scenarios where 5G, MEC, and smart cameras worked collaboratively to communicate on the road. Using smart cameras, MEC and Verizon 5G software, the test vehicle in each of the scenarios was sent a warning. As a result, 5G helped to prevent a collision from occurring. This research brings forth optimism that 5G and MEC technologies can not only prevent accidents, but save lives. Moreover, the risks associated with connect vehicles will also decrease with the advancements in vehicle communication. Bottom line: this fifth generation network is helping us to get to safer roads.

Securing the future of autonomous driving

The research performed by Honda and Verizon proves there is hope for the future of autonomous vehicles. At this point in time, the is clear. However, bringing it to fruition has been delayed due to safety setbacks. This is largely due to unpredictable human-like behavior that vehicles, nor robots, can account for. With the help of 5G, connected vehicles and autonomous cars could improve safety by sending warning signs to prevent unfortunate scenarios. With major companies and universities dedicating research to this concern, in no time we should start to see safety improvements continue to evolve. Let’s just say, 5G is a blessing to the automotive world as much as it is to you sending a meme on your cellphone.