Behind automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence, there is a fundamental pillar that supports the entire ecosystem: telecommunications. Without an efficient communication infrastructure, smart cities would be just an unattainable technological utopia and Smarticites an impossible dream to materialize.
Telecommunications as the basis of urban development
By: Gabriel E. Levy B.
In the history of humanity, cities have grown according to their communication systems. From trade routes in ancient times to the advent of the telegraph and telephone in the industrial age, connectivity has shaped urban evolution. In the 21st century, telecommunications have taken on a central role in the digital transformation of cities.
The concept of Smart City began to gain strength with the expansion of the internet and the adoption of technologies such as 4G, the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data. Anthony Townsend, in his book Smart Cities: Big Data, Civic Hackers, and the Quest for a New Utopia (2013), explains how digitalization and connectivity have given rise to a new city model, where technological infrastructure is as important as physical infrastructure.
On the other hand, Saskia Sassen, in The Global City (2001), highlights how globalization and telecommunications have redefined urban dynamics, turning cities into interconnected nodes of information and services. Under this logic, Smart Cities not only depend on sensors and algorithms, but also on a robust telecommunications infrastructure that guarantees the transmission and processing of data in real time.
Connectivity and efficiency: The key binomial of Smart Cities
A smart city is not measured only by the number of connected devices, but by the efficiency with which it manages its resources. In this sense, telecommunications allow the integration of multiple urban systems, from traffic and transport to energy management and security.
The deployment of 5G networks represents a turning point in this transformation. With connection speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G and minimal latency, 5G enables the development of advanced applications, such as real-time traffic control, utility automation, and environmental monitoring. According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), cities that have implemented 5G networks have improved their energy efficiency by 30% and reduced travel times by 20%.
In addition, connectivity enhances the management of public space through sensors and data analysis platforms. Barcelona, for example, has developed a smart lighting system that regulates the intensity of light according to the presence of pedestrians, reducing electricity consumption by 33%. This type of solution is only possible thanks to the telecommunications infrastructure that allows communication between devices and management platforms.
The challenge of infrastructure and the digital divide
Despite the advances, the development of Smart Cities faces significant challenges, with telecommunications infrastructure being one of the main ones. The implementation of 5G networks and the integration of IoT devices require millions of dollars in investments, as well as regulation that facilitates their deployment without compromising data security.
A World Bank report points out that, in Latin America, only 35% of cities have an adequate telecommunications infrastructure to develop smart city projects. The lack of internet access in marginal areas and the low investment in fiber optics limit the expansion of these urban models.
In addition, the digital divide remains an obstacle. While in cities such as Singapore or Seoul more than 90% of the population has access to high-speed internet, in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa this figure does not exceed 30%. This not only limits the implementation of smart technologies, but also aggravates social inequalities, generating cities with different levels of access to information and services.
Another major challenge is cybersecurity. As cities become more reliant on telecommunications, so do the risks of cyberattacks. A study by the consulting firm McKinsey warns that 70% of smart cities have experienced attempted cyberattacks on their transport systems and public services. Without adequate protection measures, the digitization of cities could become a vulnerability rather than an advantage.
Success stories and replicable models
Despite the challenges, some cities have made significant strides in integrating telecommunications and technology to improve their functioning.
- Singapore: the smartest city in the worldSingapore has been recognized as the smartest city in the world thanks to its advanced telecommunications infrastructure. With near-total 5G coverage and a system of sensors distributed throughout the city, it has optimized mobility, water management, and environmental control. Its open data platform allows citizens to access real-time information on traffic, weather, and public services.
- Barcelona: connectivity for sustainabilityBarcelona has developed a Smart City model based on sustainability and energy efficiency. Its traffic management system uses sensors and algorithms to reduce traffic congestion, while its telecommunications network supports a citizen participation platform that allows residents to report problems in urban infrastructure.
- New York: Safety and Smart MobilityNew York has integrated technology into safety and mobility management. Its license plate recognition systems and smart cameras allow real-time traffic monitoring and improve emergency response. In addition, the implementation of free Wi-Fi networks throughout the city has reduced the digital divide and improved access to information.
In conclusion
Telecommunications are at the heart of Smart Cities. Without a robust connectivity infrastructure, the digitalization of cities would be unfeasible. From traffic optimisation to energy efficiency, connectivity makes it possible to integrate urban systems and improve the quality of life of citizens. However, the development of smart cities faces challenges such as the digital divide, cybersecurity and investment in infrastructure. For the Smart City model to become a global reality, it is essential to guarantee equitable access to technology and strengthen the security of urban systems.
