“5G is not only the next generation of mobile technology — it will radically transform the media and entertainment industry. Promising greater functionality from the network infrastructure, it has the potential to create exciting new opportunities for broadcasters and content providers alike. The deployment of 5G networks will notably change live content production, particularly concerning how audiences experience sporting events, concerts, and other major arena events. It will also enable far greater bandwidth, high data speeds, connection density, and much lower latency. This connectivity will, in turn, create new in-event experiences and an overall improvement to streaming quality.”
Source: Raul Aldrey, StreamingMedia.com
AT A GLANCE:
The rollout of 5G is simultaneously creating both hurdles and new avenues of distribution for content providers, especially producers/broadcasters of live events. In the U.S., 5G will be occupying the C-Band, which is part of the mid range of radio frequency spectrums, but in order to do so, some space has to be made.
Satellite uplink providers, who provide services to the broadcast, cable and telco sectors, dominate the C-band but will have to make room for 5G. To accommodate, C-Band users will have to increase efficiency through improved encoding standards. Alternately, companies taking the longer view, may opt for IP-based distribution. Major sports networks are already migrating from satellites to a hybrid IP/fiber model.
Implementation of 5G will also open opportunities for the content providers, who currently fill all of that satellite bandwidth. Media companies have a giant opportunity to offer new in-event experiences at live events, content created at stadiums and other large venues, and innovative primary and second-screen content for smart phones on 5G networks.
Head over to StreamingMedia.com to read the full story.