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Subsidy Scheme for Encouraging Early Deployment of 5G receives enthusiastic response
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     The Government launched the Subsidy Scheme for Encouraging Early Deployment of 5G on May 5 under the second round of the Anti-epidemic Fund. It aims to encourage the public and private sectors to deploy 5G technology early so as to improve their operational efficiency and to foster innovation. The response is enthusiastic and 81 applications have been received so far, among which three applications have been approved. The first portion of the subsidy is expected to be disbursed to the grantees within June.
      
     The Government will subsidise 50 per cent of the project costs directly relevant to the deployment of 5G technology, subject to a cap of $500,000. It is anticipated that around 100 qualified projects will be subsidised. Upon completion of their projects, subsidised organisations and corporations are required to share and exchange their experiences with their industry in enhancing operational efficiency and services through the deployment of 5G technology so as to benefit their related sectors.
      
     The three approved cases cover the following aspects:
 
(1) Remote technical support and monitoring solution for elevators - riding on features of high speed and low latency of 5G, technicians can be supported by a real-time remote support system and reinforced by round-the-clock monitoring devices to monitor elevator safety;
 
(2) 3D building information modelling (BIM) in construction sites - with the high transmission speed of 5G and augmented reality technology, engineers and staff can build 3D BIM and review construction details on-site; and
 
(3) Remote e-sports car racing - the high-speed and real-time transmission technology of 5G allows players to experience remote mini-car racing and enjoy the fun of e-sports.
 
     Other applications received cover various aspects of innovative applications, including the application of 5G together with the Internet of things, big data and artificial intelligence technologies in waste recycling, transportation, education and entertainment industries or sectors. The Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) is actively processing the applications.
      
     "The scheme is open for application until November 30 on a first-come, first-served basis. Public and private entities and bodies are welcome to apply as soon as possible," a spokesman for OFCA said.
      
     Details of the scheme and the application form are available on OFCA's website (www.ofca.gov.hk/en/industry_focus/telecommunications/5g_subsidy/index.html).
      
     With mobile network operators launching commercial 5G services, Hong Kong entered the 5G era in April 2020. 5G technology is characterised by high speed, low latency and the ability to support a massive number of Internet of things devices, bringing excellent potential to the innovative applications of different industries and smart city development.
 
Ends/Sunday, June 14, 2020
Issued at HKT 10:00
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