Experts at Hannover Messe 2025 recently declared that the proof-of-concept phase for industrial 5G has concluded. Although full-scale deployment is underway, businesses are still grappling with significant obstacles, especially concerning costs, the justification of use cases, device compatibility, and general awareness of the technology. The consensus among industry leaders indicates a long journey before widespread adoption of industrial 5G becomes a reality.
Notably, complexities and financial concerns remain the primary barriers. Many companies still regard 5G as a costly investment that is challenging to justify, despite potential returns. Daniel Mai from Siemens described 5G as “proven,” noting that many clients are exploring its applications.
However, he highlighted that the current economic landscape is slowing progress. He sees substantial opportunities in large industrial sectors, where traditional wiring solutions can be prohibitively expensive. Yet, challenges persist, particularly regarding the lack of native support for 5G in numerous devices and varying spectrum regulations worldwide.
Duncan Hawkins from Ericsson added that internal company dynamics often complicate 5G rollouts, especially the decision about whether the IT or operational technology team should oversee the process. This disconnect, coupled with budget discussions, hampers advancement unless accompanied by strong educational efforts. Despite these hurdles, there is growing momentum in the industry.
Companies like Vodafone stress the importance of multiple evolving applications, which prove to be more valuable than a single high-profile use case. In the U.S., Verizon reports moving beyond trials to actual deployments, particularly when businesses start with simpler projects before expanding. In summary, while there is much to resolve regarding devices, costs, and company structures, the transition from testing to practical applications of 5G is progressing.
The industrial landscape is shifting toward embracing 5G, albeit gradually.