The 5G revolution is coming but it could still take some time.

Ed Jennings, chief commercial officer at Manx Telecom, claimed: ‘5G presents a genuinely exciting opportunity.’

And Manx Telecom believes the technology presents an opportunity for the island to be a potential testbed for 5G innovation

The telecommunications company says the technology opens up potential possibilities for development ranging from self driving cars, delivery drones, virtual and augmented reality gaming (VAR) to remote robotic applications.

Mr Jennings added: ‘It is important to understand that launching 5G is a complex undertaking and significant investment is required.

‘There are a number of ways in which the technology could be deployed and we must always remember that this sort of technology is ultimately just an enabler – the true value of 5G will really only be realised when specific industry or user-specific cases are defined and developed.’

‘We believe that this can best be achieved when a broad cross-section of the public and private sector is involved and are working together in partnership.’

He was speaking as Manx Telecom showcased the potential of the mobile network technology to drive business innovation and growth.

Global technology giant Huawei was invited by Manx Telecom to bring its ‘5G Is Now’ roadshow to exhibit a select number of 5G business applications. The roadshow visited Manx Telecom headquarters at Isle of Man Business Park in Braddan.

Mr Jennings said: ‘Manx Telecom is proud of its history of innovation and thought leadership, but we treasure opportunities like this to really listen to and engage with our customers.

‘This first opportunity for people to see first-hand the potential for change, innovation, and growth that 5G can deliver is the ideal way to provoke critical debate and develop deeper and more meaningful collaboration.’