The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of interconnected devices, objects, and systems that are equipped with sensors, software, and network connectivity, allowing them to collect and share data. These technologies have transformed various industries and provided numerous benefits. IoT technology improves efficiency and productivity by automating tasks, streamlining processes, and providing real-time data. The seamless connectivity and data exchange enabled by IoT technologies have enormous potential for transforming industries, improving decision-making, and improving the quality of life for individuals and communities. Join us as we explore the “Top 10 IOT Technologies ” in this article that have changed industries and provided many advantages.

Top 10 IOT Technologies

• Edge Computing
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning
• Extended Reality (XR)
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
• 5G Technology
• Blockchain Technology
• IoT in Farming
• IoT in Emergency Management
• Smart City
• Smart Devices

Let’s discuss each one in detail

1. Edge Computing

Edge computing refers to the practice of processing data at the network’s edge, closer to the source of data generation, rather than relying entirely on cloud-based servers. This distributed system is critical to enabling the Internet of Things (IoT) as it allows for quick analysis and response directly at edge devices, eliminating the need to transmit large amounts of data to remote servers for processing. The technology has applications in a variety of fields, including smart cities, manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation, and by utilizing the power of edge Computing, IoT devices can perform real-time data. In January 2024, IBM announced a new collaboration with American Tower, a global digital infrastructure provider, to accelerate the implementation of a hybrid, multi-cloud computing platform at the edge. Through this collaboration, American Tower intends to broaden its neutral-host Access Edge Data Center ecosystem by incorporating IBM Hybrid Cloud capabilities and Red Hat OpenShift.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are revolutionary technologies that have had a significant impact on a variety of industries, including the Internet of Things. AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, which allows them to replicate and perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence. Machine learning (ML) is a subset of artificial intelligence that focuses on algorithms and statistical models to allow systems to learn and improve from experience without explicit programming. When combined with IoT, these technologies create a powerful framework for exchanging and analyzing massive amounts of data collected from connected devices.

The United States and China are the two countries where AI and machine learning technologies are rapidly expanding owing to the favorable investments in such projects. For instance, in October 2023, The US National Science Foundation invested $10.9 million in the development of protected artificial intelligence technologies. Additionally, according to the United States Census Bureau, 3.8% of businesses in the United States use AI to produce goods and services.

3. Extended Reality (XR)

Extended Reality (XR) is an immersive technology that combines virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) to create a more engaging and interactive digital experience. It enables users to interact with a synthetic environment that combines physical and virtual elements. The advantages of Extended Reality (XR) are numerous, ranging from transforming industries such as gaming, education, healthcare, and architecture to improving training simulations. It provides an unprecedented level of immersion, interactivity, and visualization, creating new opportunities for creativity, communication, and problem-solving.

Europe is experiencing significant growth in the XR in major economies such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France due to several investments. For instance, in June 2023, the European Commission announced its investment of $10 billion in critical technologies, including virtual reality, through its Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP). Additionally, in July 2023, The European Commission announced a strategy, “An EU initiative on Web 4.0 and virtual worlds: a head starts in the next technological transition,” to align XR technologies such as VR and AR with the European virtual world.

4. Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) allows businesses to automate repetitive and rule-based tasks using software robots or bots. These bots simulate human interactions with various digital systems and applications, performing tasks such as data entry, extraction, and validation. RPA technology is intended to streamline and optimize business processes, increase productivity, and reduce human error. It enables businesses to automate time-consuming and routine duties, freeing up human employees to focus on more valuable activities. Robotic Process Automation can be used in a variety of industries and sectors, resulting in significant cost savings, increased efficiency, and higher accuracy in repetitive tasks.

North America is experiencing significant growth in RPA due to the presence of several industry leaders and numerous collaborations. For instance, in March 2021, Amentum, a leading contractor to the United States federal and allied governments, announced a new collaboration with UiPath, a leading enterprise RPA software company. Under the terms of the new agreement, the companies collaborated to bring the benefits of automation, which are already being used by many federal agencies, to mission-critical customers in Amentum’s portfolio of national significance programs.

5. 5G Technology

5G technology is the fifth generation of wireless communication and represents a significant advancement in terms of speed, capacity, and connectivity. It provides seamless connectivity between devices, resulting in faster data transfer rates and lower latency. With speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, 5G enables a diverse range of innovative applications and services. 5G applications span a wide range of industries, including autonomous vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and robotics.

Figure 1:  IOT Connections, in Billions, From 2018 to 2025

Source: GSMA Intelligence

Asia Pacific is growing significantly in 5G technology, which is fuelling the growing number of IoT devices in the region. With its dense population and emerging markets, Asia Pacific has emerged as an area of IoT innovation and adoption. The deployment of 5G networks has created new opportunities for connectivity and significantly increased the number of IoT devices.

Figure 2:  IOT Devices in APAC Region, in Billions, From 2022 to 2027

Source: OMDIA

6. Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is a revolutionary concept that is essentially a distributed ledger system that records and verifies transactions on multiple computers. One of its key characteristics is transparency, as users can easily track and verify any transaction conducted on the blockchain. The technology is used in a variety of industries, including finance, supply chain management, and healthcare. It facilitates secure and unbreakable transactions, eliminates the need for intermediaries, and improves data privacy. Additionally, blockchain has the potential to disrupt traditional industries by offering low-cost, high-efficiency solutions.

India and Japan are at the leading edge of Blockchain Technology due to several government initiatives. For instance, in April 2022, Fujitsu and IHI started a joint project on a new environmental value distribution platform utilizing blockchain technology. Additionally, in December 2021, The Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology released the National Strategy on Blockchain, which ensures security and privacy while allowing only trusted organizations with privileges to record and access details in an accountable manner.

7. IoT in farming

The Internet of Things (IoT) in farming is a revolutionary technology that is reshaping the agricultural sector. Farmers can use IoT devices and sensors to remotely monitor and manage their farms, increasing efficiency and productivity. These devices collect real-time data on soil moisture levels, temperature, humidity, and crop health, giving farmers valuable information about their fields’ conditions. The advantages of IoT in farming are numerous, as it enables precise and targeted application of water, fertilizers, and pesticides, reducing waste and ensuring maximum crop yield.

Asia Pacific is growing significantly in IOT in Farming in major economies in the region such as India and China. According to the Press Information Bureau, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) implemented the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Under the Mission, 25 Technology Innovation Hubs (TIHs) have been established at premier institutes of national importance across the country in advanced technology verticals, and three of these TIHs are involved in the use of IoT and AI in agriculture.

8. IoT in Emergency Management

The Internet of Things (IoT) revolutionized many industries, including emergency management. In emergency management, the IoT signifies the use of interconnected devices and sensors to improve response and rescue operations in critical situations, and by combining sensors, cameras, wearable devices, and drones, emergency responders can collect real-time data and make informed decisions quickly. The advantages of implementing IoT in emergency management are significant as it allows for early detection and prediction of natural disasters, improves situational awareness, optimizes resource allocation, and promotes timely communication between responders and affected individuals. Additionally, IoT devices also help with post-disaster recovery by monitoring infrastructure health and tracking survivors. North America is experiencing significant growth in the implementation of IOT in Emergency Management due to the advanced technologies and infrastructure.

9. Smart City

The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology into smart cities drastically altered urban landscapes around the world. In an IoT-powered smart city, multiple devices and systems are interconnected and communicate with one another, resulting in increased efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life for residents. The advantages of IoT in smart cities are numerous as it allows for real-time monitoring and efficient management of utilities that include energy, water, and waste management. Smart transportation systems improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, while smart buildings promote energy efficiency and sustainable living.

North America is projected to grow significantly in IoT smart cities due to highly advanced technological infrastructure with extensive internet connectivity and effective communication networks in major countries of the region, such as the US and Canada, which facilitates the seamless integration of IoT devices and systems within smart cities.

10. Smart Devices

IoT smart devices include sensors, software, and connectivity capabilities that allow them to collect and exchange data over the internet. These devices are linked together via the internet and provide numerous benefits, including smart home appliances and wearable gadgets, as well as industrial sensors and healthcare monitors. One of the primary benefits of IoT smart devices is convenience as IoT allows one to control and monitor various devices remotely from a smartphone or other smart devices. It enables users to effectively manage their homes and offices. IoT devices provide valuable data insights, allowing businesses to make informed decisions, improve productivity, and optimize processes.

China and Japan emerged as a significant growing region of IoT Smart Devices due to the implementation of the Internet of Things in numerous sectors to increase automation. For instance, in March 2022, Firedome announced its partnership with Hitachi Solutions to advance IoT Security in Japan. Additionally, in June 2023, ABB and China Telecom launched a joint digitalization and industrial IoT laboratory in Hangzhou, China, and the collaboration between ABB Measurement & Analytics China Technology Center and China Telecom’s Internet of Things subsidiary, E Surfing IoT focuses on creating end-to-end industrial IoT solutions for Chinese manufacturers.

The glycolic acid market was valued at US$332.687 million in 2019 and will increase to US$477.485 million by 2026. Over the forecast period, this market is estimated to increase at a compound yearly growth rate of 5.30%.

Glycolic acid is a chemical derived from plants that have been clinically demonstrated to be an excellent skin treatment. This chemical has anti-aging qualities and can be used on sensitive skin without causing irritation. It is frequently utilized as a primary ingredient in a variety of cosmetic products due to these characteristics. It’s made from plants like sugar beets, sugarcane, and pineapple, and it’s great for clearing up acne. The glycolic acid market is segmented by grade, industry, and geography.

During the Projected Period, the Market for Glycolic Acids Is Predicted to Rise Due to a Surge in Demand for Natural Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

The increased popularity of natural personal and cosmetic products is one of the primary drivers of the glycolic acid industry. Glycolic acid has a considerable presence in the worldwide cosmetic business because of its numerous skincare benefits. Glycolic acid contains anti-aging qualities and has been demonstrated to be an excellent skin therapy component. The acid is gentle on delicate skin and effectively combats acne and other skin issues. Furthermore, glycolic acid is biodegradable, free of metoxyacetic acid, and non-flammable, making it a perfect component for the dyeing industry. It is exempt from the volatile organic compound (VOC) category, which aids in its chemical industry expansion. Furthermore, the decline in the market for chemical products as a result of the harmful effects of chemicals on skin and health has aided the rise of the market for natural products, hence raising demand for glycolic acids.

During the Anticipated Period, Cosmetic Grade Glycolic Acid Is Expected to Grow Significantly

Glycolic acid is classified as industrial-grade, cosmetic grade, medical grade, or technical grade depending on the grade type. Because of its widespread use in industries and medical research, industrial and medical-grade glycolic acid is expected to dominate the market. The cosmetic grade glycolic acid, on the other hand, is expected to grow at a high rate. The increased demand for natural cosmetics is the primary factor driving this segment’s expansion. Furthermore, a boost in the use of natural cosmetic and skincare products has resulted from a considerable increase in worldwide average disposable income accompanied by an improvement in the level of living, which will promote market growth.

According to L’Oréal figures, the worldwide cosmetic market grew by 5.5 percent in 2019. In 2019, skincare accounted for 40% of the worldwide glycolic acid market share. With the introduction of the e-commerce business, online companies, the expansion of social networks, the increase in per capita disposable income, and consumer interest in various products, the market has grown globally.

Consumption of glycolic acid in hair and nail care products is also a prominent element driving market expansion. Apart from personal care and dermatology, industrial use, which is expected to be one of the fastest-growing applications of glycolic acid, is also a big consumer. The key element driving market demand is the rising need for glycolic acid in boiler cleaning applications in the industrial sector.

Analysts Anticipate That the Production of Formaldehyde Can Act as a Restraint for the Market’s Expansion

Glycolic acid is typically made using one of two methods: carbonylation of formaldehyde or glycolonitrile as a prime material. As a result of each of these techniques, formaldehyde is produced as a byproduct. When exposed internally, formaldehyde is a toxic sensitive toxin that can affect the immune system. Formaldehyde has also been related to the development of cancer in humans. Furthermore, repeated application of this chemical may irritate the eyes and skin. While formaldehyde is a waste product, it has the potential to harm consumers if it is accidentally mixed with glycolic acid. As a result, extracting glycolic acid necessitates extreme caution and cutting-edge equipment, limiting commercial potential.

Any substance with a glycolic acid concentration of more than 10% is classified as dangerous by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Glycolic acid at higher concentrations can cause skin burns. The glycolic acid market is being hampered by a growing awareness of the dangers of utilizing products with high glycolic acid concentrations.

During the Forecast Period, Europe and the Asia Pacific Regions Are Likely to Account For a Considerable Portion of the Global Glycolic Acid Market

The glycolic acid market has been divided into five regions: North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. During the forecasted period, the European glycolic market is expected to hold a large proportion. Natural skincare and cosmetics are most popular in Europe. The market’s expansion will be aided by rising demand for them. However, the Asia Pacific area is expected to grow at the fastest rate. In-market possibilities will be boosted by rising disposable income and rising demand for natural products. The burgeoning textile sector will also play a big role in the region’s development. Furthermore, expanding internet penetration and increased customer choice create a significant opportunity for the sector. As a result of increased internet access, the e-commerce sector has grown, as has the creation of new business platforms, bringing stale growth to the market. Increased awareness and a better standard of living are other important factors. Prime markets in the region include India, China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand.

COVID-19 Insights

The coronavirus pandemic had a negative influence on the glycolic acid business. The government’s containment measures resulted in a standstill in economic activity and an increase in global unemployment rates. Because of the loss of a source of income and the uncertainty surrounding the lockdown, people spent more on necessities and less on comfort and luxury items. This resulted in a large decrease in the demand for cosmetics and other items, as well as for glycolic acid. The industry’s activities were further hampered by supply chain disruption.

Glycolic acid is used to make a variety of skincare products. Because the coronavirus attacks the respiratory system, the increased danger of inhaling cosmetic goods may limit their use during the pandemic. However, due to the enforcement of lockdown, the epidemic has resulted in a downturn in the cosmetic sector. Due to labor scarcity and mandatory social separation, cosmetic manufacturers have shut down production units.

Glycolic Acid Market Scope:

The advent of 5G technology in Africa marks a significant leap forward in the continent’s technological landscape. As countries across Africa embrace the potential of 5G, there is a growing emphasis on revolutionizing communication, connectivity, and technological innovation.

5G promises to offer faster and more reliable internet connectivity, enabling advancements in various sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and industry. The increased bandwidth and reduced latency of 5G networks can lead to transformative changes in how Africans access information, communicate, and conduct business.

As per Ericsson’s Mobility Report, Sub-Saharan Africa is anticipated to witness a surge in 5G subscriptions, reaching 180 million by 2029. Despite a global economic downturn, the economies of Sub-Saharan Africa are poised for robust short-term growth at a rate of 4 percent. Concurrently, the report projects a 3 percent year-on-year increase in total mobile subscriptions over the next six years, with a notable 9 percent rise in 4G subscriptions, presenting a favorable market opportunity for service providers. Additionally, the rising adoption of smartphones, particularly affordable devices, is expected to contribute to an annual growth of over 20 percent in data consumption per smartphone during this period, escalating from 6.7 GB per month to 23 GB per month.

Figure 1:   Annual Percentage growth in sub-Saharan Africa, in mobile and 4G subscriptions, and data consumption

Source: Ericsson Mobility Report

One of the key benefits of 5G in Africa is its potential to bridge the digital divide, providing more equitable access to high-speed internet in both urban and rural areas. This connectivity is crucial for fostering economic development, supporting entrepreneurship, and enhancing overall quality of life. Governments, telecommunications companies, and tech innovators are working collaboratively to deploy and expand 5G networks across the continent. While challenges such as infrastructure development and affordability remain, the positive impact of 5G on Africa’s technological future is increasingly evident.

For instance, on November 16, 2023, during the Africacom 5G Summit, GSMA Intelligence collaborated with ICASA, MTN South Africa, and Huawei to unveil a white paper titled “5G FWA in Africa, Emerging Trends and Opportunities.” This document thoroughly examines the present developmental patterns and forthcoming prospects for 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services in Africa.

Internet accessibility in Africa is severely restricted, with only 22% of the population having the means to connect. The inadequate infrastructure further hampers the widespread adoption of internet connections in Africa, as the exorbitant cost of data acts as a barrier to rapid expansion. The Southern African Development Community (SADC), mirroring the trends seen across the entire African continent, has been incrementally enhancing initiatives to increase internet access through internet connectivity. This is particularly crucial as SADC’s internet access rate, currently standing at 2%, ranks among the lowest globally.

The March 2023 report from ICASA regarding the state of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in South Africa revealed that the National 5G population coverage in 2022 was 20% but with no coverage in rural areas. This lack of coverage particularly affects provinces with rural populations, including the Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Northern Cape. The absence of 5G infrastructure in these regions underscores the ongoing challenges in providing advanced telecommunications services to rural communities. Addressing this issue is crucial for ensuring equitable access to technological advancements and promoting digital inclusion across all regions of South Africa. Efforts to expand 5G coverage in rural provinces are essential to bridge the digital divide and foster comprehensive development in the country.

On August 25, 2023, the Ghanaian Government declared its intention to establish a joint 4G and 5G network in collaboration with operators and private investors. The Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, clarified that instead of auctioning the 5G spectrum, the government plans to establish a neutral shared network facilitating mobile services through both 4G and 5G spectrums. The Minister further explained that a consortium comprising network operators and private investors will work together to provide nationwide 4G and 5G services, aligning with Ghana’s goal of extending services to rural areas and advancing its digital transformation agenda. Additionally, Owusu-Ekuful revealed that the government has approved the introduction of two new subsea cables to enhance accessible and affordable internet connectivity.

Some of the major market developments in the African region are:

• In February 2023, Nokia announced a significant development, as it secured its first-ever selection by MTN South Africa (MTN SA) as one of the providers for its 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) equipment. This collaboration involves the modernization of the existing 2G/3G/4G radio network and the expansion of MTN’s 5G radio network across 2800 sites in the Central and Eastern regions of South Africa. This initiative aims to propel digitalization efforts across the African continent. MTN SA, a subsidiary of MTN Group Limited, which is Africa’s largest mobile network operator operating in 17 countries and serving 272 million subscribers, marks a significant partnership for Nokia in contributing to the advancement of telecommunications infrastructure in the region.
• In November 2022, Orange officially rolled out its commercial 5G network in Botswana, making it the inaugural Orange country in Africa to introduce this advanced technology. Orange Botswana, as the first affiliate on the continent to launch 5G commercially, provided coverage in greater Gaborone and Francistown, encompassing 30% of the population. The introduction of 5G technology by Orange in Botswana is expected to facilitate the implementation of new healthcare, education, and security services in the country. This milestone underscores Orange’s commitment to advancing technological infrastructure in Africa, enhancing connectivity, and opening up opportunities for innovative services and solutions.
• In March 2022, MTN Group entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Rakuten Symphony, outlining plans to carry out live Proof of Concept (PoC) trials for both 4G and 5G Open RAN in South Africa, Nigeria, and Liberia. The trials were based on the Rakuten Communications Platform (RCP), a comprehensive solution designed to support telcos globally in deploying fully cloud-native network services. The collaboration between MTN Group and Rakuten Symphony signified a strategic partnership aiming at exploring and validating the capabilities of Open RAN technology in diverse African markets. The trials, utilizing RCP not only assessed the performance of 4G and 5G networks but also contributed to the evolution of cloud-native infrastructure in the telecommunications sector. This initiative underscored the commitment of both companies to drive innovation and enhance the efficiency and flexibility of network services in the evolving landscape of telecommunications across South Africa, Nigeria, and Liberia.

In essence, the advent of 5G technology in Africa marks a crucial juncture in the continent’s ongoing process of digital evolution, unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation, fostering economic growth, and significantly enhancing connectivity for individuals within varied communities. This transformative technology not only accelerates the pace of technological advancement but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the socio-economic landscape of Africa, positioning the continent on the forefront of global digital progress. With the potential to revolutionize industries, empower businesses, and improve the overall quality of life, 5G in Africa holds the promise of a more connected, technologically advanced, and prosperous future for its diverse population.

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Dynamic Spectrum Sharing operates on the principle of dividing access and reallocating spectrum. Access splitting entails a Dynamic Spectrum Sharing-enabled base station supporting multiple access technologies simultaneously, such as 4G LTE and 5G New Radio. Re-farming involves the base station assigning users to a specific frequency band based on network conditions and traffic load. The sophisticated software algorithms in Dynamic Spectrum Sharing enable the base station to analyze traffic load and user characteristics, dynamically adjusting spectrum allocation. This innovative technology facilitates the coexistence of both older 4G LTE users and newer 5G NR users. Additionally, it enables the dynamic allocation of throughput and data rates to optimize overall performance, aligning with user and network requirements.

In the context of NR (New Radio), frequency bands catering to high-speed and high-capacity services are categorized into three main groups. The first category comprises a low-frequency band below 3 GHz, primarily utilized by LTE services and predominantly operating in a frequency division duplex (FDD) method. Following this, there is the mid-frequency band (mid-band) spanning from 3 GHz to 5 GHz. Lastly, the mmWave frequency band (mmWave-band) is situated between 24-40 GHz. Both the mid-band and mmWave-bands operate using time division duplex (TDD). Typically, NR is co-deployed alongside LTE sites, making use of existing LTE infrastructure. In a scenario where NR exclusively utilizes mid-band TDD carriers (with low bands reserved for LTE), it would experience greater propagation and penetration losses compared to the use of low-band FDD carriers. This inherent limitation of the mid-band frequency leads to reduced coverage, especially in the uplink (UL) transmission, resulting in coverage gaps. Figure 3 illustrates the coverage gaps that would be present in the hypothetical situation where NR operates solely on mid-band. The indoor coverage gap is a direct consequence of penetration loss in the mid-band frequency. Additionally, it’s noteworthy that the reduction in coverage is more pronounced in mmWave-band TDD carriers.

Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) facilitates adaptable resource management aligned with the penetration of NR (New Radio) User Equipment (UE) and the demand for NR traffic, ensuring optimal spectrum utilization. In the early stages of the NR market, the traffic demand for NR may not be substantial enough to necessitate the full utilization of available resources in the re-farmed band. Consequently, there is a risk of underutilization of resources in the re-farmed band that could be otherwise utilized for LTE traffic. Essentially, as long as LTE traffic predominates the market, some resources may remain unused.

However, DSS addresses this challenge by dynamically allocating resources based on traffic demands between LTE and NR throughout the entire spectrum. This feature requires coordination between LTE and NR schedulers, facilitating the exchange of traffic and resource-sharing status and the synchronized dynamic assignment of available resources. Through this sophisticated coordination, LTE resource allocation increases while NR resource allocation decreases during LTE traffic peaks, and vice versa during NR traffic peaks. This dynamic resource allocation accommodates instantaneous bursts in NR traffic, even in the early stages of the NR market, as well as the steady growth in NR demand over time as NR becomes mainstream.

Dynamic Spectrum not only expedites the expansion of 5G but also introduces new benefits for LTE users. The more efficient allocation and optimized utilization of frequencies results in an enhanced overall user experience for LTE users. The LTE band 1 at 2.1 gigahertz (GHz) plays a unique role in this context, having been previously utilized for 3G/UMTS. Through Deutsche Telekom’s 5G booster initiative, 15 megahertz from this frequency band have been utilized since June 2020 for LTE and 5G, dynamically dividing the spectrum. 5G is not a standalone network but is integrated into the 4G cell to enhance overall capacity. Aside from operating at the 2.1 GHz frequency, 5G also utilizes the 3.6 GHz frequency, which is presently allocated for use in major cities. This allocation decision is based on the characteristics of radio frequencies. The 2.1 GHz frequency facilitates long-range coverage at high speeds, making it well-suited for the expansion of 5G in broader areas. On the other hand, the 3.6 GHz frequency achieves exceptionally high data rates but over a shorter range, hence its application in metropolitan areas. The synergy between Dynamic Spectrum Sharing and the expansion of specific sites on the 3.6 GHz frequency band is a key factor contributing to the implementation of the new 5G standard.

Figure 1: Frequency of LTE Bands For 3G and 5G, in Gigahertz

Source: Deutsche Telekom

According to a research paper published by PubMed Central in June 2021, the adoption of DSS technology offers significant advantages, notably cost reduction for mobile operators and optimization of spectrum usage. This is attributed to the mobile network operator’s ability to reuse the existing 15 MHz bandwidth of LTE, eliminating the need to acquire additional dedicated 15 MHz for 5G services. In essence, deploying DSS technology proves beneficial, particularly during the initial rollout of 5G NR, as it allows operators to formulate strategies while presenting an initial 5G landscape to consumers using the already-in-use LTE spectrum.

Brazil’s National Telecommunications Agency (Agencia Nacional de Telecomunicacoes, Anatel) reported that as of December 31, 2021, the mobile operators in the country collectively reached a total of 1.210 million 5G subscriptions utilizing dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS) technology. DSS facilitates the simultaneous operation of 4G and 5G services within a single frequency band.

In the 3GPP Release 15, the introduction of a feature known as 5G DSS (Dynamic Spectrum Sharing) eliminates the necessity for refarming, significantly expediting the transition to 5G. DSS capitalizes on the commonality that both 4G LTE and 5G NR share OFDM technology and introduces techniques enabling these waveforms to coexist seamlessly within the same spectrum. Essentially, DSS enables the simultaneous presence of 4G LTE and 5G NR users in the same frequency band or channel, allowing an operator’s base stations and network to dynamically allocate channel resources between 4G and 5G users at each cell site. Consequently, 5G DSS transforms practically any band currently used for 4G LTE into a band ready for immediate 5G deployment. This feature is typically implemented in lower sub-6 GHz frequencies, offering superior 5G coverage compared to higher-frequency 5G bands. Furthermore, it provides additional capacity for 5G without the substantial delays associated with a more prolonged refarming process. While DSS introduces additional overhead to support the operation of 4G and 5G in the same band, the advantages of utilizing DSS for a gradual spectrum transition outweigh the impact on capacity.

On February 18, 2020, ZTE Corporation, a prominent global provider of telecommunications, enterprise, and consumer technology solutions for the Mobile Internet, introduced its SuperDSS solution. This solution stands out as an industry-leading approach to tri-RAT (Radio Access Technology) dynamic spectrum sharing. It represents a significant innovation within the 5G era, advancing the capabilities of the Magic Radio Pro solution to enable multi-RAT spectrum sharing when repurposing legacy FDD (Frequency Division Duplex) bands for 5G deployment. SuperDSS is designed for dynamic spectrum sharing encompassing 2G/4G/5G and 3G/4G/5G, making it an efficient means for rapid 5G deployment. Simultaneously, it facilitates the provision of legacy voice services over the 1800MHz or 2100MHz bands, ensuring optimal spectrum return on investment.

In April 2020, Nokia revealed the expansion of its AirScale portfolio through various innovative products aimed at meeting the changing requirements of 5G networks and enabling mobile operators to fully leverage the capabilities of 5G. This expansion involves the introduction of a Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) software upgrade applicable to existing Nokia AirScale base stations and the Nokia AirScale All-in-Cloud base station. This upgrade is designed to enhance network efficiency.

On April 13, 2022, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and Virgin Media O2 jointly announced the successful implementation of multiple operational 4G and 5G sites in the United Kingdom, marking a significant progression in their collaborative efforts. Concurrently with this deployment, the companies achieved the inaugural 5G data call on Virgin Media O2’s commercial 5G network using these sites. Furthermore, the field tests conducted confirmed the interoperability between Virgin Media O2’s 2G/3G/4G networks and Samsung’s latest 4G and 5G solutions. The tests also validated the potential utilization of Samsung’s Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) capabilities.

In summary, Dynamic Spectrum Sharing represents an advanced communication technology that enhances spectral efficiency, minimizes interference, and creates new spectrum opportunities. While there are challenges to address, Dynamic Spectrum Sharing technologies bring innovation and increased capabilities to various applications, including 5G deployments, IoT services, broadband, and mobile network services. As 5G networks are rolled out, Dynamic Spectrum Sharing is poised to play a crucial role in spectrum reallocation processes, ensuring the optimal utilization of spectrum resources across low-band, mid-band, and mmWave frequencies.

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Self-service ticket machines (TVMs), or automatic ticket vending machines, have become an increasingly convenient method of booking tickets for public transportation, replacing the traditional method of ticket booking through counters. Self-service are machines that allow users to operate to purchase a product or service as per their needs without any reception required. Self-service machines have different varieties, which include Payment terminals, automatic teller machines (ATMs), Vending Machines, Ticket machines, and check-in terminals.

Self-service ticket machines are also known as ticket kiosks, which are used to purchase and dispense different types of tickets, receipts and cards, which is commonly used in places like movie theatres, sports and concert stadiums, museums, zoos, historical landmarks, parking areas, and transportation locations like the railway station, metro, and airports. This helps in reducing wait times, limits face-to-face interactions, and allows better allocation of regular staff for other tasks. For example, The Indian Railway Automatic ticket vending machine is a touchscreen-based ticketing kiosk that is operated using user-specific smart cards, which are similar to identity cards and can be acquired from the Ticket counters. Users then use the card on the ATVM where the user has to specify the starting location and ending location for the ticket to be generated and printed for use.

The main locations in which the self-service ticket machines are implemented are in railways and airports. Ticketing kiosks are commonly used in metro stations and airports for self-check-in, which reduces the amount of passenger queueing and also reduces the cost and time taken to book tickets. The ticketing kiosks provide quick entry and exit of passengers from the counter due to the booking is done through a ticketing kiosk, which can be online or offline. The online form of the ticketing kiosk is through online platforms, like ‘FareHarbor’, that provide the details and requirements about the trip on an online website to purchase a ticket. Whereas an offline form is in the railway or airport establishments, where the machines have been implemented for passengers to use and access information to purchase and dispense tickets.

With the increase in the adoption of automation and technology, It is expected that the self-service ticket machine market will grow at the same pace as the technological advancements that occur in the modern era. The use of robots for the automation of tasks has become commonplace in the modern era, with the implementation of automation into ticket booking. Automation also helps the workers and staff to handle other higher-level tasks and will reduce the costs required for a traditional ticket counter. As per Census.gov, it has been found that the main motivation for the implementation of automation is the improvement of the quality of production processes from 69% to 80% of the workers. This can boost the growth of the ticketing kiosks and is expected to grow at an equal pace with technological advancements.

As of April 2023, a startup company from IIT Kanpur received TBD-DST funding which aided the startup with Rs.4.12 crores for the commercialization of Machine Vision and Robotics Systems in the Manufacturing industry.  This solution integrates artificial intelligence and robotics and will be used as a direct substitute for the Quality Assurance and Inspection system, which is used for industrial automation in railways and manufacturing industries. With the integration of AI, the automation systems will provide better performance and results for all sectors.

Another factor that can be a player in the growth of the self-service ticket machine is the increase in travel and tourism. It is expected that the self-service ticket machines market will witness growth in the United Kingdom at a steady rate. Self-service ticket machines provide/ dispense tickets in the form of paper tickets or digital tickets. Digital tickets are much more convenient and eco-friendlier and as internet users increase, the digital form of tickets is more preferred by users and travellers worldwide. As per VisitBritain, it has been forecasted to have 37.5 million visits, which is 91% of the 2019 level. This can boost the growth of the self-service ticket machines.

Another growth driver that can propel the self-service ticket machines is the growing number of users of the internet. As of Q4 2023, it has been estimated that a total of 5.30 billion people around the world use the Internet, which is equivalent to 65.7% of the world’s total population. Since the rise in the internet can increase the number of users who will prefer going digital for booking tickets and self-service, the market will experience a high rate of growth from the increasing population of internet users. As per the World Bank, it was found that there was a significant increase in internet users, from 69.1% to 73.1% of population in the East Asia and Pacific Region and an increase from 83.8% to 86.8% of population in the Europe and Central Asia Region, during 2020 – 2021.  North America had the highest number of users in 2020, with 91% of the region’s population being internet users.

Figure 1:    Internet Users, East Asia and Pacific & Europe and Central Asia, In Percentage, 2020 and 2021

Source: World Bank

A few of the major players in the self-service ticket machine market include:

Sigma SPA is one of the leading banking automation and ticketing services companies. They provide Automatic Ticket devices for the supply of paper and digital tickets for local and public railway transportation. Their products can dispense paper tickets, issue and recharge electronic cards(smart cards), and on QR code support.

Scheidt & Bachmann is also one of the major players in the ticketing kiosks industry.  They are a leading provider of ticketing systems for transport operators and provide solutions to make travelling pleasant and satisfying to the passengers.

Genfare (SPX Technologies) is a leader that provides configurable fare solutions to transportation agencies throughout North America and is highly secure, reliable and flexible. Some of their latest products include cloud-based reporting software, smart card and mobile payment options, and ticket vending and point-of-sale card distribution systems.