Together with Nokia, Bell claims to have successfully demonstrated Fifth Generation mobile technology (5G).
According to a statement, the trial was conducted using Bell’s Wireless Innovation Centre in Mississauga and leveraged spectrum in the 73 GHz range to reach consistent data speeds that were six times faster than top 4G mobile speeds currently available in Canada.
5G data speeds are likely to be commonplace in Canada within the next five to seven years. Specifically, 5G provides a better foundation to meet the needs of the emerging IoT market related to connected vehicles and city-wide IoT solutions.
“Bell’s strategic focus on driving broadband network and service innovation has been key to our transformation into Canada’s wireless leader. The success of the first 5G trial means we are well positioned to lead the way to the next generation of mobile technology,” said Stephen Howe, Bell’s chief technology officer and executive vice president in a statement.
“Bell is working closely with Nokia and our other partners in North America and worldwide to create the network, device and application ecosystem required to ensure Canadians will be able take full advantage of the 5G opportunity,” Howe continued.
Bell currently operates research and development centres in Dorval (Quebec), Mississauga and Toronto. Bell is also a member of the Next Generation Mobile Networks consortium — the international group defining the requirements for a 5G technology ecosystem. This global body is focused on delivering commercially-available 5G around the world by 2020.
Talk of 5G testing has been rampant among the Big Three Canadian carriers. Rogers, Bell and Telus have all committed to investing in and developing a 5G ecosystem in Canada, though it looks like Bell is pulling ahead.
In addition to local carriers, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer Huawei has committed significant investments towards developing Canada’s 5G infrastructure. The company announced in March of this year a $303 million investment over five years into Ontario’s 5G acceleration program.
“Canada’s ability to compete in a digital world will be defined by our culture of innovation,” said the Honourable Navdeep Bains, the minister of innovation, science and economic development, in a statement sent to MobileSyrup.
He continued, “This successful trial of next-generation 5G here in Canada is one example of how our country can become a global centre of innovation by being early adopters of emerging technologies.”
Related reading: Rogers, Bell and Telus are ramping up testing 5G network
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