Closer to the edge: 5G encourages operators to broaden partnerships for MEC

Momentum for 5G is accelerating around the world as operators roll out more networks, with 5G standalone (SA) on its way to becoming mainstream. As deployments of 5G SA networks scale, so too will enterprise adoption of advanced 5G features such as edge computing. Multi-access edge computing (MEC) has become a buzzword in recent years. But with the advent of 5G, MEC deployments and partnerships have now started to materialise.

Recent tie-ups between operators and cloud vendors have focused on new use cases enabled by the combination of 5G private networks and MEC technology, and the potential benefits for the digital transformation of industries. However, the opportunity also brings the risk of new competitive threats and a need to rethink traditional telco partners.