The analyst, Frost & Sullivan, has welcomed the EU’s decision to support 5G mobile technology, describing it as vital for a smarter future in Europe.

Earlier this week, European Commission Vice President, Neelie Kroes, announced a €50m(£43m) investment in 5G, with the intention of implementing 5G technology in Europe by 2020. Saverio Romeo, industry manager for Frost & Sullivan’s ICT group, notes that, if this is added to an existing investment of almost €700m in 4G and beyond 4G technologies over the past six years, the European Commissions intent of creating technology leadership in mobile communications is clear and sound.

“This last announcement can be seen as a response to the recent disappointing EU budget decision which cut investments on super-fast broadband and other cutting-edge ICT-based solutions for Europeans,” said Romero. “Neelie Kroes announcement shows her effort to push through the argument that information and communications technologies are essential and indispensable building blocks for the future of Europe and its citizens. They will help (in) developing smart infrastructures for the communities we live in, intelligent services for citizens, and enhancing the participation of citizens in the decision-making process at every level, from municipality level to the European Union. And finally, but not least, it will promote innovation and jobs.”