Digitalization is forcing the convergence of networks and platforms that have traditionally remained separate. Mobile networks have previously been the domain of telecommunications providers, but as new mobile generations emerge the reach of the network is also becoming an enterprise domain.
We spoke with Thomas Magedanz, Professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at the Technische Universität Berlin and Director of the software-based networks competence center at Fraunhofer Institute FOKUS, about the expectations for 5G networks, why 5G technologies are being tested with Smart Cities applications and how standards can drive the global network interoperability that 5G will require. Thomas was a keynote speaker at The Open Group Berlin 2017 in April.