5G technology has brought about a revolution in the security and surveillance sector, particularly when integrated with the Internet of Things (IoT). By 2025, the global market for IoT in surveillance is expected to reach $52 billion. These technological advancements are reshaping the way security is upheld and surveillance is conducted, with India, known for its diversity, at the forefront of these transformations. Here are five significant ways in which the rise of 5G-enabled technology has fundamentally changed the landscape of surveillance and security:

• Enhanced Device Connectivity:

5G has proven to be a game-changer for device connectivity. It far surpasses previous networks in its ability to support a significantly higher number of connected devices. This is a boon for densely populated Indian urban centers and vast rural areas alike. India’s smart city initiatives, for example, can harness IoT sensors to monitor traffic flow, detect accidents, and identify congestion points. These insights have not only enhanced safety but also security, potentially saving lives and improving overall quality of life.

• Wearable Security:

Thanks to 5G, wearable security devices have become commonplace in India, providing an additional layer of personal security. IoT-enabled wearables can transmit distress signals or alerts during emergencies. Moreover, these devices hold promise for further innovation. Picture a wearable programmed to automatically send an SOS signal to law enforcement or family members upon detecting a sudden fall or irregular heart rate patterns, ensuring swift assistance during critical moments.

• Real-time Data Transmission:

With its ultra-low latency, often less than 1 millisecond, 5G has transformed real-time data transmission. In terms of security and surveillance, this low latency is a game-changer. IoT devices such as surveillance cameras, sensors, and alarms can now provide real-time information, enabling immediate responses to potential threats. This is particularly valuable in a vast and geographically diverse country like India, where challenging terrains and landscapes pose unique security challenges. 5G-enabled drones and security systems can cover expansive areas, offering live feeds and becoming indispensable tools for safeguarding critical assets.

• E-Governance and Public Safety:

5G-supported IoT plays a pivotal role in bolstering e-governance projects focused on enhancing public safety. Smart city solutions encompass intelligent street lighting and emergency response systems. Smart streetlights can autonomously adjust illumination based on pedestrian traffic, conserving energy when streets are vacant. The wealth of data generated by IoT devices, coupled with the speed of 5G networks, has made predictive analytics more accurate. Law enforcement agencies in India can leverage this technology to anticipate criminal activities and allocate resources more efficiently.

• Enhanced Healthcare:

In India’s extensive healthcare sector, the integration of IoT with 5G technology has significantly improved patient safety and fortified healthcare facilities. IoT sensors equipped with 5G connectivity enhance real-time monitoring, ensure secure access control, enable sanitation compliance, and facilitate equipment tracking. .

In a country striving for advanced healthcare, this leap in security technology ensures that medical institutions can operate efficiently, especially during times of crisis, such as the recent pandemic. IoT devices have emerged as invaluable tools, providing comprehensive solutions to address healthcare challenges. Furthermore, 5G has enabled robust security measures to protect sensitive, personal health data, a critical aspect as India progresses towards a Digital India.

In addition to these applications, 5G can empower real-time monitoring of environmental conditions, enabling swift responses to events like floods, earthquakes, or wildfires. From preventing crimes through predictive analytics to safeguarding healthcare facilities and conserving the environment, 5G-enabled technology is propelling the surveillance and security industry into an era of unparalleled innovation.