Hutchison Telecom CEO sees subsidy scheme, new applications, next iPhone boosting Hong Kong’s 5G adoption
- Live-streaming with 4K digital resolution is one of several new 5G enterprise services being offered by 3 Hong Kong, the city’s second-largest mobile network operator
- The government’s new subsidy scheme for early deployment of 5G is expected to help fund around 100 qualified projects
As the city’s renowned cultural ambassador, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO) has had a busy schedule in organising more than 100 regular and outreach concerts every year, as well as taking part in various local and international festivals.
“I believe 4K live-streaming over 5G is a game changer, leading to a wealth of possibilities for innovation in the local arts industry,” Yan Huichang, the HKCO’s artistic director and principal conductor for life, said in an interview last week, following the group’s live-streamed charity concert backed by mobile network operator 3 Hong Kong.
“In the old days, if we wanted to live-stream a concert, we needed a large-scale upfront installation in advance because some venues did not have high-speed data transmission cables. The installation cost was usually very high,” Yan said. “The 5G solution is much more flexible and cost-effective ... The audience can watch live broadcasts on smartphones, tablets, computers and TVs without any additional settings.”
The HKCO has applied for funding under the “Subsidy Scheme for Encouraging Early Deployment of 5G”, which was introduced in May by the Office of the Communications Authority (Ofca). The industry regulator’s scheme will subsidise 50 per cent of an approved 5G project’s total cost, subject to a cap of HK$500,000.
The stakes are high for governments and telecommunications network operators around the world to foster 5G adoption, as part of efforts to help revive a global economy damaged by the Covid-19 outbreak.