A world-class 5G technology test network will aim to put Britain at the forefront of mobile technology, according to the Government, potentially injecting up to £173 billion into the economy by 2030.
Experts from 5G research institutions at King’s College London and the Universities of Surrey and Bristol will be given £16 million to develop the 5G test network.
The project will see academic expertise and commercial leadership brought together to trial the technology and make sure that people and businesses can enjoy the benefits as soon as possible.
5G is expected to deliver reliable ultra-fast mobile connectivity with the ability to process huge amounts of data and support the complex apps predicted for tomorrow’s mobile phones — for example, sending virtual-reality 3-D TV clips to mobile devices.
It could also be used in new technologies that have the potential to revolutionise society — such as autonomous vehicles — or in advanced manufacturing and robotics, augmented reality, remote surgery, smart agriculture and smart homes.
Matt Hancock, the Minister for Digital, said: “We want to be at the head of the field in 5G. This funding will support the pioneering research needed to ensure that we can harness the potential of this technology to spark innovation, create new jobs and boost the economy.”