5G networks will become commonplace within the next five years, expected to deliver on multiple promises of gigabit speeds, ultra-low latency, higher reliability and improved density in device connectivity.

Going far beyond traditional communications and Internet connectivity on smartphones, 5G offers the potential for entirely new applications, many of which would be considered impossible using previous generations of mobile networking technology.

Real-time capabilities coupled with universal mobility are key elements here to deliver new applications. Time-critical services are clearly an area of focus, however the lower latency present in 5G networks is highly likely to influence the form-factor of consumer devices, enabling data processing that would ordinarily happen on the edge, on the devices themselves, to instead be offloaded to servers in the cloud.

The higher bandwidth available over 5G will undoubtedly unlock higher resolution video services and new forms of media, such as volumetric content. 5G will also enable new audio-visual experiences for audiences at live events and for virtual participants.

In this research, compiled by Futuresource Consulting and commissioned by InterDigital, we examine the roll out of 5G networks worldwide and consumer uptake of 5G services, investigate how both existing and new forms of audio-visual products might harness the advances in 5G networking technology, and consider the potential intersect between 5G and new video coding standards.