The telecommunications sector in Egypt and the wider Middle East is witnessing rapid transformation as preparations for 5G deployment accelerate, alongside growing discussions about 6G and artificial intelligence. In this exclusive interview with Tech Portals, a senior Ericsson expert analyzes Egypt’s market potential, the timing of new technology rollouts, and the future of intelligent networks.
Egypt: A Promising Market of 115 Million with a Youth Hungry for Technology
How do you view the Egyptian market today, and what makes it an area of interest for global technology companies like Ericsson?
When it comes to Egypt, I believe it is a highly dynamic and exciting market, home to over 115 million people, with a significant portion of youth in their twenties. There is an inherent appetite among them to explore, consume, and integrate technology as part of their everyday lives.
Given this youth-driven demand, how is current data consumption impacting networks, and where does 5G fit into the picture?
What we’re seeing now is that young users are consuming all available network resources, most of which are still operating on 4G technology. This means the arrival of 5G comes at a perfect time — offering spectral efficiencies that will make operators more effective and enhance the overall experience for end users.
5G: Not Delayed — But Arriving at the Perfect Moment
Some argue that Egypt is late in rolling out 5G compared to other markets such as the Gulf. How do you respond to that?
Some may think 5G is arriving late to Egypt, but I believe it’s perfectly timed. Every market around the world — including the Middle East and Africa — has its own dynamics. For example, Gulf countries decided early on to be pioneers in 5G, investing heavily to become the fastest and most advanced networks globally.
He adds, “That was when 5G was still an emerging technology, with its initial challenges and limitations. Today, the technology has matured. Advanced 5G — or standalone 5G — is the version that should be embraced for the future, as it is far more efficient and capable.”
From Maturity to the Future: Advanced 5G as the Foundation for 6G
With growing global discussions about 6G, is it too early to talk about the next generation when 5G is still being deployed in markets like Egypt?
I believe 6G is something for the future. 5G has not yet been fully deployed in Egypt. Advanced and standalone 5G will lay the foundation for the future capabilities of 6G.
How exactly does advanced 5G pave the way for 6G, and what needs to happen next?
The features and capabilities of advanced, standalone 5G form the basis of 6G. Every country must deploy standalone 5G to explore these capabilities, enabling industries and enterprises to become more productive and advanced. That’s how they’ll be ready for futuristic concepts such as the ‘sensory’ 6G era.
Security and Sustainability: Core Pillars of 5G Design
As networks evolve to connect industries and institutions, cybersecurity and sustainability have become key concerns. How does 5G address these challenges?
Network security becomes increasingly vital as 5G begins to connect enterprises and industries. However, 5G was designed from the ground up with this in mind. Built-in security protocols safeguard nations and communication networks from cyber threats.
From a sustainability perspective, the story is similar — 5G was designed to be at least ten times more energy-efficient in terms of data transmission. When you move to standalone 5G, the entire system becomes even more sustainable, consuming less energy since devices rely on a single technology rather than two. Even your phone battery lasts longer.”
Artificial Intelligence: The Key to Network Efficiency and User Experience
Finally, how do you see artificial intelligence shaping the future of telecommunications?
Artificial intelligence is a crucial technology that must be adopted by telecom networks worldwide. It will empower them to become more efficient and inclusive while delivering a better end-user experience through automation. AI ensures that the right technology is available at the right time, enabling differentiated and optimized connectivity.
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