Tag: 5G

5G An introduction to the technology
What is a 5G network?
5G, the fifth generation of mobile communications technology, represents a revolutionary evolution in connectivity. Building on 4G LTE networks, it promises dramatically increased download speeds, greater densities of connected devices, and unprecedented low latency.
The official 5G standards were defined by the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) in June 2018, marking a key moment in telecommunications history. Unlike 4G, 5G leverages existing infrastructure while incorporating advanced radio frequency bands such as millimeter wave (mmWave) to dramatically improve capacity and performance. The first 5G networks were rolled out in South Korea and the United States in 2019, followed by rapid adoption around the world.
The transition from 4G to 5G is a major step forward. By 2022, peak download speeds on 5G networks will reach up to 20Gbps*, a significant improvement over 4G’s 1Gbps. Latency will be reduced to 1-2ms from 4G’s typical 20-70ms, making real-time applications like self-driving cars and remote surgery a reality.
*”Gbps” is an abbreviation for Gigabits Per Second, an indicator of data transfer speed, indicating the number of billions of bits transmitted per second.
5G is already reshaping our digital world. By 2025, its ability to handle massive amounts of data traffic is expected to enable widespread adoption of disruptive technologies. These include self-driving vehicles, an extensive IoT ecosystem, seamless 4K/8K video streaming, and immersive AR/VR applications. Experts predict that by 2030, 5G will contribute more than $1.3 trillion to the global economy, driving innovation and redefining industries worldwide.
How 5G Works
5G combines advanced radio spectrum bands with cutting-edge technology to deliver incredible speeds, low latency, and high connection density. Here’s how it works:
● Sub-6 GHz and mmWave: 5G networks operate on a variety of radio frequencies. Sub-6 GHz bands (below 6 GHz) offer broad coverage, making them ideal for widespread deployment, especially in rural and suburban areas. Meanwhile, mmWave bands (24-40 GHz) offer the bandwidth for ultra-fast data transmission, making them ideal for densely populated urban centers and high-demand environments like stadiums and airports.
● Advanced Antenna Systems: 5G employs MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) antenna technology, allowing multiple data streams to be transmitted and received simultaneously. This technology significantly increases network capacity, allowing more devices to connect without sacrificing speed or reliability.
● Small Cell Networks: To ensure consistent performance, 5G leverages small cell networks. These are compact base stations installed on streetlights, rooftops, and utility poles, enhancing localized network capacity and providing seamless connectivity in densely populated areas.
● Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA): This advanced modulation technique divides the spectrum into small subchannels, optimizing spectrum use. OFDMA allows multiple users to access the network simultaneously, enabling efficient data transmission even under heavy load.
● Network Slicing: One of 5G’s most innovative technologies, network slicing, enables the creation of multiple virtual networks on a shared physical infrastructure. Each slice can be optimized for a specific use case; for example, a network can be configured for ultra-low latency communications for self-driving cars or high-definition video streaming.
● Edge Computing: To minimize latency, 5G incorporates edge computing, which processes data closer to the user through localized data centers. This approach not only improves response times but also reduces the load on central servers, improving the overall efficiency of the network.

Inventor of 5G Technology
The development of 5G technology has been the result of extensive collaboration between telecommunications companies, academic institutions, and technology standards organizations around the world. No single company can claim to have “invented” 5G; its development has been shaped by the contributions of industry leaders such as Ericsson, Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung, Huawei, and ZTE. Each of these companies has played a key role in innovating the hardware, software, and infrastructure that underpins 5G networks.
As key international organizations, 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) and ITU (International Telecommunication Union) have played crucial roles in formulating the 5G technical standards. Notably, 3GPP published the first 5G specifications in 2018, paving the way for global commercial deployment.
TDK is focusing on evolving the core components that support 5G networks. Our innovations span a wide range, including ultra-compact DC-DC converters and LTCC AiP (Antenna in Package) devices, which are essential for optimizing small cell base stations—a key requirement for the high speeds and low latency of 5G. These technologies improve the efficiency and performance of 5G infrastructure, enabling seamless connectivity even in densely populated areas.
TDK will continue to actively engage in initiatives that push the boundaries of current trends, such as “Beyond 5G.” Our research focuses on next-generation wireless technologies, ensuring that 5G evolves to meet the demands of a hyper-connected future.

5G Speeds
5G represents a quantum leap in mobile network technology, setting new standards for speed, reliability, and connectivity. To understand why 5G is a game-changer, let’s first look at the evolution of mobile networks.
● 1G (1980s): An analog system designed primarily for voice calls. With no encryption, security was virtually nonexistent and data speeds were negligible.
● 2G (1990s): The first digital network introduced enhanced security and basic data services like SMS. However, speeds were capped at just 64 kbps, making it take more than 20 minutes to download a three-minute song.
● 3G (2000s): Brought mobile internet mainstream with speeds ranging from 384 kbps to 2 Mbps. While an improvement, these speeds were insufficient for smooth video and music streaming.
● 4G LTE (2010s): A turning point, with speeds capable of supporting HD video streaming, advanced applications, and large file downloads. While theoretical peak speeds reached 100 Mbps, in practice, speeds were often slower.
The arrival of 5G has ushered in a new era. How much faster is 5G than 4G? 5G uses advanced radio frequency bands and short data transmission bursts to deliver ultra-high speeds and ultra-low latency. Latency has been reduced to just a few milliseconds, enabling real-time communication for devices like self-driving cars and smart home systems.

Speed Advantage:
5G surpasses 4G in every metric. Peak download speeds can reach up to 20Gbps, 20 times faster than 4G’s 1Gbps. For example, downloading a full HD movie takes just 3.6 seconds with 5G, compared to 26 hours with 3G and 6 minutes with 4G.
Why is 5G better than LTE or 4G?
5G benefits go beyond speed. It offers:
● Massively increased capacity, enabling millions of devices to connect seamlessly
● Reduced latency, essential for applications such as telemedicine and industrial automation
● Improved network reliability, paving the way for innovation in healthcare, manufacturing, transportation, and more
A Radical Upgrade:
5G is not a gradual improvement; it is a 10-100x upgrade over 4G networks. From speed to capacity to reliability, 5G represents a paradigm shift in what networks can achieve.
The Big Picture:
5G network capabilities will enable a world of seamless connectivity and real-time automation not possible with previous generations. 5G networks will not only deliver faster speeds, but also enable real-time data processing, connecting billions of devices and unlocking new possibilities like smart cities and autonomous technology. While past communications technologies connected people, 5G will connect the world.
The Next Step:
The foundation established by 5G paves the way for future advancements like 6G, which promises even faster speeds, lower latency, and unprecedented innovation.
The Future of 5G: Exploring Its Impact Across Sectors
It’s 2025, and with its ultra-fast speeds, near-zero latency, and ability to connect billions of devices, 5G is already transforming industry, government, and everyday life. Here’s how this revolutionary technology is changing the world.
Business Transformation
5G is driving innovation across industries.
● Many companies are planning to implement 5G solutions in the next few years. This trend demonstrates the increasing importance of advanced networks that enable real-time data processing and increase the flexibility and agility of business operations. 5G will enable companies to overcome traditional constraints and give them more freedom to experiment and innovate.
● Networked logistics will benefit from real-time tracking of goods and predictive analytics, significantly reducing latency compared to pre-5G systems.
● Industries such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing are increasingly adopting 5G-enabled robotics and automation to increase efficiency and improve customer experience.
Governments and Smart Cities:
Governments are leveraging 5G for smarter city management.
● 5G-enabled smart cities are improving traffic flow and easing congestion in metropolitan areas.
● IoT-based environmental monitoring is tracking air quality and water usage in real time, supporting sustainability efforts.
● 5G and Emergency Response: 5G connectivity is improving emergency response efforts by enabling faster communication between agencies and more effective data sharing.
Medical Revolution
5G has accelerated innovation in healthcare.
● The use of telemedicine has increased significantly, with 5G enabling high-quality video consultations and real-time diagnoses.
● Wearable devices with 5G connectivity support continuous health monitoring, with more users adopting these technologies. A report by Spherical Insights highlights that 5G-enabled wearables are improving real-time patient monitoring and aiding in early disease detection.
● Remote surgery, once considered futuristic, is becoming more feasible as 5G increases the precision and reliability of robotic-assisted surgery.
Immersive Experiences
5G is revolutionizing entertainment and education.
● AR/VR platforms are now at the heart of retail, with virtual fitting rooms and immersive product demonstrations becoming standard for major brands.
● In education, 5G-powered virtual classrooms are delivering interactive lessons to over 200 million students worldwide and bridging the rural gap.
● 8K streaming and ultra-realistic VR games are becoming mainstream, creating entirely new digital experiences.
Self-Driving Cars
By 2025, self-driving cars are becoming a reality thanks to 5G.
● Smart city pilot programs are improving road safety with real-time communication between vehicles and infrastructure, and early implementations are seeing lower accident rates.
● The use of autonomous vehicles is steadily increasing, with 5G playing a key role in obstacle detection, navigation, and decision-making. According to Verified Market Reports, the U.S. autonomous vehicle market is predicted to reach $86 billion by 2030, driven by advances in 5G connectivity and AI-powered decision-making.
Consumer Benefits:
For everyday users, 5G offers the following benefits:
● Instant downloads are possible, with full 8K movies completing in under 10 seconds.
● Low latency of 1ms ensures a seamless, lag-free gaming experience.
● AR apps that redefine shopping, travel, and learning experiences (from virtual try-ons to immersive trip planning).
Challenges to Overcome
While 5G offers transformative benefits, challenges remain:
● Infrastructure delays: Rural and developing regions are still lagging behind in 5G rollout, with full global coverage predicted by 2028.
● Security concerns: The massive increase in connected devices increases the risk of cyberattacks and leads to new industry standards.
● Cost barriers: 5G-enabled devices remain expensive, delaying adoption for some consumers.
The Big Picture:
5G is more than just an upgrade; it’s the foundation for a hyper-connected world. From smart cities to self-driving cars, this technology is enabling innovations that redefine what’s possible. Looking ahead, preliminary exploration of 6G concepts is only just beginning, and experts continue to debate potential advancements over time that build on the foundation laid by 5G.

Conclusion
As 5G takes center stage in 2025, it is transforming industries and daily life like never before. With ultra-high speeds, ultra-low latency, and the ability to connect billions of devices, 5G is more than just a technological milestone: it’s the foundation for a new era of innovation. From self-driving cars and smart cities to immersive entertainment and life-saving healthcare applications, 5G is closing the gap and enabling possibilities once out of reach.
While challenges remain, including infrastructure expansion and security concerns, collaborative efforts between industry, governments, and innovators are paving the way for widespread adoption. The future is bright as 5G lays the foundation for emerging technologies like 6G, further expanding their impact. By embracing 5G’s immense potential, we are building a hyper-connected, more efficient, and empowered world. The possibilities are endless, and the journey has only just begun.

FAQ
1. What is 5G and how is it different from 4G?
5G is the fifth generation of wireless technology, and it offers significantly faster speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect more devices than 4G. It supports real-time applications such as autonomous vehicles and telemedicine that were not possible with 4G.
2. How does 5G achieve high speeds and low latency?
5G utilizes advanced technologies such as millimeter wave frequencies, MIMO antennas, small cell networks, and edge computing to optimize data transmission and minimize latency.
3. Which industries will benefit most from 5G?
Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, education, and entertainment stand to benefit from the capabilities of 5G, which will enable innovations such as remote surgery, smart cities, automated supply chains, and immersive AR/VR experiences.
4. When and where will 5G be available?
5G is expanding rapidly, but full global coverage is not expected until 2028. Infrastructure challenges have slowed adoption in some rural and less developed areas.
5. Is 5G safe to use?
Extensive research has shown that 5G is safe and meets international health and safety standards. However, like all wireless technologies, its infrastructure requires careful implementation to ensure reliability and security.
6. What are the challenges associated with 5G?
Key challenges include infrastructure deployment in rural areas, increased cybersecurity risks from connected devices, and the high cost of 5G-enabled devices for consumers.
7. Can 5G support older devices?
No, older devices designed for 4G or earlier networks will not be able to connect to 5G. Users will need a 5G-enabled device to access the network.
8. What’s next after 5G?
Research into 6G is already underway, aiming to deliver even faster speeds, lower latency, and innovative capabilities by 2030. 6G will build on the foundation laid by 5G and unlock new technological possibilities.
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March 5, 2026
Why is the Metaverse attracting attention in the medical field? Introduction examples and future issues
The use of the metaverse in the medical field is expanding. It is estimated that by utilizing 5G and new technologies, the growth rate of the Metaverse will be over 30% by 2030.
Therefore, in this article, we will explain why the Metaverse is attracting attention in the medical field, what the challenges are in promoting it, and examples of what has been done to date.

Metaverse is expected to grow by more than 30% by 2030 in the medical field
The use of the metaverse is attracting attention in the medical field. This is because the use of virtual space is thought to have a wide range of uses, such as enabling medical procedures that would be difficult in the real world, and medical examinations using avatars.
In 2021, the market size of Metaverse in healthcare was not very large. However, in the medical field, the metaverse is expected to grow significantly by 2030, as it is believed that it can be used in a wide variety of ways.
The use of the Metaverse in the medical industry is expanding, with examples of surgeries being performed using AR smart glasses.
Why metaverse medicine is attracting attention
There are three reasons why metaverse medicine is attracting attention. Let’s look at them one by one.
Introduction can eliminate regional disparities in medical quality
In recent years, “medical disparities” have been occurring all over the world, including Japan.
For example, medical institutions are concentrated only in urban areas, making it difficult to receive advanced medical care in rural areas. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s “Measures to prevent uneven distribution of doctors”, the regional uneven distribution of doctors continues, and some regions are experiencing a shortage of doctors.
Metaverse is also expected to solve these problems. This is because VR space not only allows us to connect with people around the world in real time, but also makes it easier to provide medical services to patients in remote areas. Therefore, we can expect to eliminate regional disparities in the quality of medical care.
Advances in 5G and communication technology have made real-time remote surgery possible.
In the field of digital medicine, it is expected that paper prescriptions will disappear in the next few decades and transition to digital treatment in the metaverse space.
In order to perform digital medicine using this metaverse space without any problems, an environment is required that allows for high-speed and high-capacity communication without problems.
What is expected of this is the communication technology called 5G. It has the characteristics of “high-capacity, high-speed communication,” “high reliability and low latency,” and “multiple simultaneous connections.”
Even now, it has a proven track record of being used for real-time remote control of surgical support robots.
5G, which is capable of faster speeds and higher capacity communications, is said to be able to be used in digital medicine, and is expected to become a new field of digital medicine.
Metaverse medical care has become a system that is easy for patients to consult.
In the Metaverse space, you create an “avatar” that is your alter ego and communicate with it.
Communication using this avatar is attracting attention as a system that makes it easy for patients to consult.
Kohei Yoshioka, a psychiatrist who runs Metaverse Clinic, a medical consultation community on the Metaverse, says the following.
“I feel that in the metaverse space where we use alter egos called avatars, it is easier to self-disclose because there is no need to actually communicate face-to-face.”
Currently, we are using the Metaverse space as a place for consultation rather than medical treatment, but I believe that by making it a place for communication, it will be easier for patients to seek advice.
In this way, metaverse medicine is also beneficial to patients.
Three medical fields aiming to utilize the metaverse
The three specific medical fields that aim to utilize the metaverse include:
- - Medical (VR training)
  - Pharmaceuticals (sharing of medical product information)
  - Drug discovery (time and cost reduction)
Medical (VR training)
In the medical field, the metaverse of VR training is being utilized.
Specifically, this includes training for surgeons regarding surgical procedures and social skills training.
For example, in the United States, we prepare a real surgical scenario, create a virtual operating room in the metaverse space, and actually perform the procedure in that space.
The virtual operating room also helps in training for complex procedures. Additionally, in Japan, Jolly Good Inc. is conducting social skills training on developmental disorders on Metaverse.
We have progressed to the stage where we can promote lifestyle support and employment support for patients.
Pharmaceuticals (sharing of medical product information)
In the pharmaceutical industry , the Metaverse is being used as a place to share medical product information and support communication between doctors and patients.
Specifically, we are using virtual MR to effectively share medical product information.
For example, at Tsumura Co., Ltd., a major pharmaceutical company, AI presents content that matches the story to medical professionals in a 3D version of MR.
Additionally, Astellas Pharma Inc. has begun experimenting with using virtual MR to project patients’ skeletal information in 3D into the real world. For example, it has the benefit of making it easier for patients to understand their own health status when they see their bone density decreasing.
Drug discovery (time and cost reduction)
Drug discovery is always time-consuming and costly. Metaverse is being used to reduce the time and cost of drug discovery.
At Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., researchers use the software “Nanomu” to discover drugs in the metaverse.
Things that could only be confirmed in two dimensions can now be confirmed in 3D models down to the atomic level, making it possible to create new ideas and test whether they are actually effective in the metaverse space, something never seen before. It provides a sense of speed.
How will the two types of telemedicine (including metaverse medicine) change with 5G?

There are two types of telemedicine. The first is medical care in which doctors and patients in remote locations use tools to communicate in real time.
The other is D to D (Doctor to Doctor), in which other doctors provide online support for the medical care of doctors in remote locations, and D to P (Doctor to Patient), in which doctors provide medical care directly to patients.
In this chapter, we will explain how these telemedicine systems will change with 5G.
D to D (Doctor to Doctor)
D to D (Doctor to Doctor) is when doctors in remote locations use online technology to support doctors who are actually providing medical care.
Real-time support is essential for doctors who are actually providing medical care. For example, when providing support to doctors providing medical care at a disaster site, every minute can mean the difference between life and death for a patient.
Utilizing 5G will enable high-speed communication, making it possible to provide support without time lag. The result is faster medical care for patients.
D to Patient (Doctor to Doctor)
D to P (Doctor to Patient) is when a doctor in a remote location actually provides medical care to a patient. Currently, online medical consultations are still being conducted, but they are limited to interviewing and almost no actual medical care is provided.
This is because patient data is exchanged when actually providing medical care. This patient data will be large in volume, so the use of 5G is essential. By utilizing 5G, data can be exchanged smoothly in real time and can be expected to be useful in actual medical care.
There are two issues that need to be resolved in promoting metaverse medicine.
Although it is certain that metaverse medicine will continue to expand in the future, there are still issues that need to be resolved. Let’s take a closer look at these two issues.
Safety issues
First, there is the issue of safety. When actually performing medical treatment, a multi-layered check system is in place, leading to peace of mind for patients.
Even when providing medical care in the metaverse, safety must be ensured just as in real life. Creating a safe environment for patients can be said to be a major challenge for metaverse medicine.
In order to solve safety issues, it is essential not only to collaborate with medical professionals, but also with businesses that provide metaverse space.
No matter how wonderful a Metaverse space is created, if there are doubts about its safety, it will be difficult to promote it.
Security issues
Metaverse space is a virtual space provided online. Therefore, addressing cyber security is essential.
If the security of the Metaverse is weak, it may be infiltrated by malicious hackers. If such hackers are allowed to infiltrate, medical practices may come to a halt, and patients’ personal information may also be leaked.
In order to solve these security issues, it is necessary not only to have a strong environmental infrastructure that does not allow intrusion from outsiders, but also to have laws in place to deal with incidents.
Five examples of using the Metaverse in medical care
In this chapter, we will introduce five examples of how the Metaverse is actually used in medical care.
Juntendo Virtual Hospital (virtual space imitating a hospital)
Juntendo University is collaborating with IBM Japan, Ltd. to construct the “Juntendo Virtual Hospital” within the Metaverse space.
The Juntendo Virtual Hospital is a place for medical professionals and patients to interact, allowing patients to experience a simulated medical procedure before coming to the hospital. The purpose is to alleviate patients’ anxiety through simulated experiences.
VR vaccine injection simulator (VR of intramuscular injection)
As the name suggests, a VR vaccine injection simulator allows you to simulate an injection in VR. Imma Create Co., Ltd. has released a service for training purposes, which allows you to intuitively learn how to give intramuscular injections in VR space. In addition, simulators have been released for training purposes when learning the procedures for vaccination against the new coronavirus, and are expected to be more effective than learning through classroom lectures.
Mediverse OCD (virtual space such as seminars)
MediVerse OCD aims to create new services by building a platform that connects medical professionals or medical professionals and companies in a metaverse space.
It can be used for a variety of purposes depending on the user, including sharing case information, gathering research knowledge from medical professionals, and holding simple study sessions and study groups.
Holoeyes (VR software for medical education)
Holoeyes is VR software for learning medical education or clinical practice.
Since the purpose is medical education, 3D information of the human body can be accurately reproduced in VR, making it possible to learn visually. Furthermore, it can also be used to simulate actual procedures. You can also communicate with other users in remote locations in real time via avatars.
Introducing 5 papers that will help you understand future metaverse medicine
In this chapter, we will introduce five papers that will be useful in deepening our knowledge of metaverse medicine, which will be promoted in the future.
Papers on cardiology
The use of the metaverse in cardiology is called the CardioVerse.
In cardiology, by utilizing this Cardioverse, it is possible to receive specialized services in 3D space even in remote locations, and the quality of medical care can be improved by integrating surgical robots and navigation systems. It has been reported that the effect of “increases the
Papers on ophthalmology
In ophthalmology, there are many things related to AR and VR.
For example, “Using AR and VR to help patients notice visual abnormalities” and “Making it easier to train medical professionals in optometry and surgery.”
The use of AR and VR can help patients in remote locations decide whether to travel to the hospital for testing. Other training simulators introduced include the EyeSi simulator (VR Magic) and MicroVisTouch (Immersive Touch).
Papers on medical education
In the field of medical education, we classify the metaverse into four types and discuss how to utilize each type. The four types of medical education are ” Augmented Reality ,” “Lifelog,” “Mirror World,” and “Virtual Reality.”
Each type is discussed in the paper as follows.
- - Augmented reality uses augmented reality t-shirts to explore inside the human body
  - Lifelog is introducing a service that can utilize accumulated biometric information in the medical field.
- Mirror World is developing a platform that contributes to scientific research through games.
- In virtual reality, use of avatar services and platforms
Papers on gastroenterology
In gastroenterology, papers have been published on the clinical results of endoscopy training actually conducted in the metaverse space.
Specifically, this includes surgical training using endoscopic equipment in the Metaverse, treatment by senior doctors in the Metaverse, and discussion of surgical procedures by experts in the Metaverse via avatars.
Training and discussions held in the Metaverse space have led to results such as improved experience for doctors, shorter surgical times, and lower complication rates.
Papers on body transformation research cases
Body transformation is a phenomenon in which emotions, cognition, and behavior change by transforming from one’s own body to another body in VR space. Research on this body transformation is underway in Japan.
Specifically, the following cases have been reported.
- - When white people use black avatars, their sense of discrimination is reduced.
  - Using a child avatar leads to overestimation of object size and childish behavior.
- Being a superhero and helping others makes you more likely to act altruistically.
In other words, using an avatar with a different personality in VR space will have an impact on your body and way of thinking in the real world.
summary

It is no exaggeration to say that the market for the use of the metaverse in medical care is growing, and there is no doubt that it will continue to develop. With the use of 5G, the impact of the Metaverse on medical care will increase. The range of applications will continue to expand in a variety of medical fields, including telemedicine and real-time communication between doctors and patients.

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May 28, 2024
Why is the Metaverse attracting attention in the medical field? Introduction examples and future issues
The use of the metaverse in the medical field is expanding. It is estimated that by utilizing 5G and new technologies, the growth rate of the Metaverse will be over 30% by 2030.
Therefore, in this article, we will explain why the Metaverse is attracting attention in the medical field, what the challenges are in promoting it, and examples of what has been done to date.

Metaverse is expected to grow by more than 30% by 2030 in the medical field
The use of the metaverse is attracting attention in the medical field. This is because the use of virtual space is thought to have a wide range of uses, such as enabling medical procedures that would be difficult in the real world, and medical examinations using avatars.
In 2021, the market size of Metaverse in healthcare was not very large. However, in the medical field, the metaverse is expected to grow significantly by 2030, as it is believed that it can be used in a wide variety of ways.
The use of the Metaverse in the medical industry is expanding, with examples of surgeries being performed using AR smart glasses.
Why metaverse medicine is attracting attention
There are three reasons why metaverse medicine is attracting attention. Let’s look at them one by one.
Introduction can eliminate regional disparities in medical quality
In recent years, “medical disparities” have been occurring all over the world, including Japan.
For example, medical institutions are concentrated only in urban areas, making it difficult to receive advanced medical care in rural areas. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare’s “Measures to prevent uneven distribution of doctors”, the regional uneven distribution of doctors continues, and some regions are experiencing a shortage of doctors.
Metaverse is also expected to solve these problems. This is because VR space not only allows us to connect with people around the world in real time, but also makes it easier to provide medical services to patients in remote areas. Therefore, we can expect to eliminate regional disparities in the quality of medical care.
Advances in 5G and communication technology have made real-time remote surgery possible.
In the field of digital medicine, it is expected that paper prescriptions will disappear in the next few decades and transition to digital treatment in the metaverse space.
In order to perform digital medicine using this metaverse space without any problems, an environment is required that allows for high-speed and high-capacity communication without problems.
What is expected of this is the communication technology called 5G. It has the characteristics of “high-capacity, high-speed communication,” “high reliability and low latency,” and “multiple simultaneous connections.”
Even now, it has a proven track record of being used for real-time remote control of surgical support robots.
5G, which is capable of faster speeds and higher capacity communications, is said to be able to be used in digital medicine, and is expected to become a new field of digital medicine.
Metaverse medical care has become a system that is easy for patients to consult.
In the Metaverse space, you create an “avatar” that is your alter ego and communicate with it.
Communication using this avatar is attracting attention as a system that makes it easy for patients to consult.
Kohei Yoshioka, a psychiatrist who runs Metaverse Clinic, a medical consultation community on the Metaverse, says the following.
“I feel that in the metaverse space where we use alter egos called avatars, it is easier to self-disclose because there is no need to actually communicate face-to-face.”
Currently, we are using the Metaverse space as a place for consultation rather than medical treatment, but I believe that by making it a place for communication, it will be easier for patients to seek advice.
In this way, metaverse medicine is also beneficial to patients.
Three medical fields aiming to utilize the metaverse
The three specific medical fields that aim to utilize the metaverse include:
- - Medical (VR training)
  - Pharmaceuticals (sharing of medical product information)
  - Drug discovery (time and cost reduction)
Medical (VR training)
In the medical field, the metaverse of VR training is being utilized.
Specifically, this includes training for surgeons regarding surgical procedures and social skills training.
For example, in the United States, we prepare a real surgical scenario, create a virtual operating room in the metaverse space, and actually perform the procedure in that space.
The virtual operating room also helps in training for complex procedures. Additionally, in Japan, Jolly Good Inc. is conducting social skills training on developmental disorders on Metaverse.
We have progressed to the stage where we can promote lifestyle support and employment support for patients.
Pharmaceuticals (sharing of medical product information)
In the pharmaceutical industry , the Metaverse is being used as a place to share medical product information and support communication between doctors and patients.
Specifically, we are using virtual MR to effectively share medical product information.
For example, at Tsumura Co., Ltd., a major pharmaceutical company, AI presents content that matches the story to medical professionals in a 3D version of MR.
Additionally, Astellas Pharma Inc. has begun experimenting with using virtual MR to project patients’ skeletal information in 3D into the real world. For example, it has the benefit of making it easier for patients to understand their own health status when they see their bone density decreasing.
Drug discovery (time and cost reduction)
Drug discovery is always time-consuming and costly. Metaverse is being used to reduce the time and cost of drug discovery.
At Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., researchers use the software “Nanomu” to discover drugs in the metaverse.
Things that could only be confirmed in two dimensions can now be confirmed in 3D models down to the atomic level, making it possible to create new ideas and test whether they are actually effective in the metaverse space, something never seen before. It provides a sense of speed.
How will the two types of telemedicine (including metaverse medicine) change with 5G?

There are two types of telemedicine. The first is medical care in which doctors and patients in remote locations use tools to communicate in real time.
The other is D to D (Doctor to Doctor), in which other doctors provide online support for the medical care of doctors in remote locations, and D to P (Doctor to Patient), in which doctors provide medical care directly to patients.
In this chapter, we will explain how these telemedicine systems will change with 5G.
D to D (Doctor to Doctor)
D to D (Doctor to Doctor) is when doctors in remote locations use online technology to support doctors who are actually providing medical care.
Real-time support is essential for doctors who are actually providing medical care. For example, when providing support to doctors providing medical care at a disaster site, every minute can mean the difference between life and death for a patient.
Utilizing 5G will enable high-speed communication, making it possible to provide support without time lag. The result is faster medical care for patients.
D to Patient (Doctor to Doctor)
D to P (Doctor to Patient) is when a doctor in a remote location actually provides medical care to a patient. Currently, online medical consultations are still being conducted, but they are limited to interviewing and almost no actual medical care is provided.
This is because patient data is exchanged when actually providing medical care. This patient data will be large in volume, so the use of 5G is essential. By utilizing 5G, data can be exchanged smoothly in real time and can be expected to be useful in actual medical care.
There are two issues that need to be resolved in promoting metaverse medicine.
Although it is certain that metaverse medicine will continue to expand in the future, there are still issues that need to be resolved. Let’s take a closer look at these two issues.
Safety issues
First, there is the issue of safety. When actually performing medical treatment, a multi-layered check system is in place, leading to peace of mind for patients.
Even when providing medical care in the metaverse, safety must be ensured just as in real life. Creating a safe environment for patients can be said to be a major challenge for metaverse medicine.
In order to solve safety issues, it is essential not only to collaborate with medical professionals, but also with businesses that provide metaverse space.
No matter how wonderful a Metaverse space is created, if there are doubts about its safety, it will be difficult to promote it.
Security issues
Metaverse space is a virtual space provided online. Therefore, addressing cyber security is essential.
If the security of the Metaverse is weak, it may be infiltrated by malicious hackers. If such hackers are allowed to infiltrate, medical practices may come to a halt, and patients’ personal information may also be leaked.
In order to solve these security issues, it is necessary not only to have a strong environmental infrastructure that does not allow intrusion from outsiders, but also to have laws in place to deal with incidents.
Five examples of using the Metaverse in medical care
In this chapter, we will introduce five examples of how the Metaverse is actually used in medical care.
Juntendo Virtual Hospital (virtual space imitating a hospital)
Juntendo University is collaborating with IBM Japan, Ltd. to construct the “Juntendo Virtual Hospital” within the Metaverse space.
The Juntendo Virtual Hospital is a place for medical professionals and patients to interact, allowing patients to experience a simulated medical procedure before coming to the hospital. The purpose is to alleviate patients’ anxiety through simulated experiences.
VR vaccine injection simulator (VR of intramuscular injection)
As the name suggests, a VR vaccine injection simulator allows you to simulate an injection in VR. Imma Create Co., Ltd. has released a service for training purposes, which allows you to intuitively learn how to give intramuscular injections in VR space. In addition, simulators have been released for training purposes when learning the procedures for vaccination against the new coronavirus, and are expected to be more effective than learning through classroom lectures.
Mediverse OCD (virtual space such as seminars)
MediVerse OCD aims to create new services by building a platform that connects medical professionals or medical professionals and companies in a metaverse space.
It can be used for a variety of purposes depending on the user, including sharing case information, gathering research knowledge from medical professionals, and holding simple study sessions and study groups.
Holoeyes (VR software for medical education)
Holoeyes is VR software for learning medical education or clinical practice.
Since the purpose is medical education, 3D information of the human body can be accurately reproduced in VR, making it possible to learn visually. Furthermore, it can also be used to simulate actual procedures. You can also communicate with other users in remote locations in real time via avatars.
Introducing 5 papers that will help you understand future metaverse medicine
In this chapter, we will introduce five papers that will be useful in deepening our knowledge of metaverse medicine, which will be promoted in the future.
Papers on cardiology
The use of the metaverse in cardiology is called the CardioVerse.
In cardiology, by utilizing this Cardioverse, it is possible to receive specialized services in 3D space even in remote locations, and the quality of medical care can be improved by integrating surgical robots and navigation systems. It has been reported that the effect of “increases the
Papers on ophthalmology
In ophthalmology, there are many things related to AR and VR.
For example, “Using AR and VR to help patients notice visual abnormalities” and “Making it easier to train medical professionals in optometry and surgery.”
The use of AR and VR can help patients in remote locations decide whether to travel to the hospital for testing. Other training simulators introduced include the EyeSi simulator (VR Magic) and MicroVisTouch (Immersive Touch).
Papers on medical education
In the field of medical education, we classify the metaverse into four types and discuss how to utilize each type. The four types of medical education are ” Augmented Reality ,” “Lifelog,” “Mirror World,” and “Virtual Reality.”
Each type is discussed in the paper as follows.
- - Augmented reality uses augmented reality t-shirts to explore inside the human body
  - Lifelog is introducing a service that can utilize accumulated biometric information in the medical field.
- Mirror World is developing a platform that contributes to scientific research through games.
- In virtual reality, use of avatar services and platforms
Papers on gastroenterology
In gastroenterology, papers have been published on the clinical results of endoscopy training actually conducted in the metaverse space.
Specifically, this includes surgical training using endoscopic equipment in the Metaverse, treatment by senior doctors in the Metaverse, and discussion of surgical procedures by experts in the Metaverse via avatars.
Training and discussions held in the Metaverse space have led to results such as improved experience for doctors, shorter surgical times, and lower complication rates.
Papers on body transformation research cases
Body transformation is a phenomenon in which emotions, cognition, and behavior change by transforming from one’s own body to another body in VR space. Research on this body transformation is underway in Japan.
Specifically, the following cases have been reported.
- - When white people use black avatars, their sense of discrimination is reduced.
  - Using a child avatar leads to overestimation of object size and childish behavior.
- Being a superhero and helping others makes you more likely to act altruistically.
In other words, using an avatar with a different personality in VR space will have an impact on your body and way of thinking in the real world.
summary

It is no exaggeration to say that the market for the use of the metaverse in medical care is growing, and there is no doubt that it will continue to develop. With the use of 5G, the impact of the Metaverse on medical care will increase. The range of applications will continue to expand in a variety of medical fields, including telemedicine and real-time communication between doctors and patients.

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May 28, 2024