Why the race to deploy 5G networks matters to Microsoft

From major carriers to chip and device makers, everyone is pushing 5G. But what is it and why does it matter to Microsoft?

5G, in simplest terms, is the fifth generation of wireless technology. 1G was the voice-focused generation which supported phone use from anywhere. 2G brought messaging or short text capabilities. 3G gave us the data network speeds that helped push smartphone evolution. 4G introduced data capacities that support a variety of modern devices and services. 5G is a leap in wireless tech that promises much higher speeds, far broader capacity and a platform for a variety of new computing scenarios.

As more devices become connected, the current infrastructure is incapable of ensuring connectivity. 5G, using high-frequency millimeter waves "creates spectrum space" to accommodate the billions of devices expected to become connected in the near future. Many carriers including T-Mobile, Sprint, AT&T, China Mobile, Vodaphone Group and Verizon, are racing to roll out 5G networks between this year and 2019.

As carriers and cable companies push 5G networks in dozens of cities and device makers like Asus, HTC, LG, Sony and Xiaomi and others commit to 5G devices, what does all this mean for Microsoft's connected computing strategy?

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