John Deere is planning on introducing 5G technology into its factories, including in Iowa.

Why it matters: 5G is expected to streamline operations, ranging from automated parts delivery to even how employees move in the assembly line.

• The company acquired private 5G licenses for five counties in November — including Polk, Black Hawk and Scott counties.

What exactly is 5G? It's super-fast cellular service, designed to enable our ever-expanding Internet of Things, including self-driving cars and virtual reality.

• A phone on 5G can download a movie in 15 seconds, compared to six minutes on 4G, according to the Wall Street Journal.
• Devices using 5G can also process information more quickly, making things like a drone work more smoothly.

The big picture: At factory-scale, those faster speeds can help existing equipment like cameras, sensors and automated robotics offer real-time feedback.

• Because 5G is faster than some wired connections, companies can also eliminate ethernet cables — allowing more physical flexibility with their machines and easier connections between them.

John Deere is exploring utilizing 5G in several areas:

• Using cameras to observe factory workers and make real-time recommendations on better ergonomics.
• Using virtual reality technology to streamline employee training, rather than going from machine to machine.
• Using real-time sensors that can detect when machines aren't functioning properly to improve maintenance.

Keep an eye out: The pilot program starts in 2022.

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