Of all the emerging technologies that have benefited the video industry and OTT services in recent years, 5G connectivity has the potential to have one of the greatest impacts, significantly improving the video viewing experience and enabling new applications in the field of video and multimedia. In fact, according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report from June 2023, the number of 5G subscriptions is forecasted to reach 1.5 billion by the end of this year.

With the promise of increased capacity, lower latency, and virtualized network principles, the fifth generation of network technology has all the characteristics to drive high-quality video to the broader market. Additionally, a study by Palo Alto Networks revealed that 9 out of 10 companies in Spain will invest in 5G over the next few months.

In this context, Agile Content, a Spanish company and provider of streaming and internet television solutions, highlights 6 benefits of integrating 5G technology, including:

1. Network deployment
   Thanks to 5G, broadcasters and content producers can leverage the internet and its capacity to be used as a reliable distribution channel. They also have the option to establish their own contribution networks, creating fast and efficient production infrastructures. This allows for handling a greater number of connected devices and simultaneously streaming more data, which is especially important for massive events like concerts and festivals.
   
   
2. Remote media management
   Media transport has always been an integral part of content production, and it becomes easier with 5G. 5G technology has lower latency than 4G networks, which translates to faster delivery, enabling post-production to begin sooner, whether it’s outdoor shooting for a drama series or a news team reporting from a remote location.

3. Faster mobile delivery
   Mobile devices are a fundamental part of the video consumption ecosystem, and with 5G, video distribution services can offer their high-quality programming to the audience wherever they are. 5G technology can support higher bit rates and greater bandwidth, meaning that videos can be streamed in higher resolutions, such as 4K and 8K, with sharper and more detailed image quality.
   
   
4. Expanded cellular coverage
   In some major urban population centers, there is still insufficient 5G coverage. Within a few years, it is expected that 5G will achieve a coverage level comparable to 4G. With multiple implementations (high, mid, and low-band 5G), each with its own speed and bandwidth, this technology will provide video content consumers with a more reliable and consistent cellular coverage experience, both indoors and outdoors.
   
   
5. Greater democratization of video
   The need for technical infrastructure and associated costs is significantly reduced. 5G also allows high-quality video production and processing to be within reach of individuals, something that was previously exclusive to major professional broadcasters.
   
   
6. Internet of Things
   The video content that can be created from IoT can be broader and more diverse than previously thought. The Internet of Things will have a significant impact on video production, from live sports to a major advancement in implementing Industry 4.0 solutions. This will lead to an expansion in diversity when it comes to creating content.