Build 5G Modern Connected Apps at the Edge

[Guest Jaime_Sanchez]

In this blog, we are summarizing the highlights from Build 2023 on how developers can build 5G Modern Connected Apps at the Edge.

 

Today, the cloud as we know it is rapidly expanding into a highly distributed and ubiquitous computing fabric that is being powered by a modern network infrastructure and a new application and connectivity paradigm – what we call Modern Connected Apps.

 

Modern connected apps are highly distributed, low latency, and network intelligent applications that help us to more easily put compute power into hard-to-reach areas – whether over large bodies of water, hundreds of feet underground, or in rural areas where there is limited connectivity. Ultimately, this new class of application is helping us put compute power even closer to the most urgent problems we need to solve.

 

 

 

At Microsoft, we are working hard to enable this ubiquitous computing fabric from cloud to edge by giving developers the tools they need to build modern connected apps.

 

 

 

In this article, we outline the major solutions, accelerators, and resources we have recently launched, including highlights from Build 2023 to help you get started today.

 

 

 

5G: Driving innovation for developing solutions in Public and Private MEC

 

 

As we delve deeper into the world of Modern Connected Applications, it's clear that the advent of 5G technology continues to be a game-changer. With its high-speed, low-latency capabilities, 5G is the perfect companion to the ubiquitous compute fabric that the cloud provides, enabling developers to create applications that are network aware. At the forefront of this transformation are Azure Public MEC and Azure Private MEC. These solutions bring the power of the cloud closer to the devices and users.

 

 

 

Exploring the power of Azure Public Multi-access Edge Compute (MEC)

 

 

Azure Public MEC, with its edge-optimized Azure services, leverages the mobile operator’s public 5G network connectivity. This unique integration not only allows developers to deploy their applications closer to users—thereby reducing latency and improving application performance, but it also opens up a world of opportunities for creating new user experiences.

 

For instance, developers can create immersive Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) applications that require high bandwidth and low latency. These applications can provide users with real-time interactive experiences that were previously impossible. This is a powerful tool for developers looking to create applications that are highly responsive and extremely collaborative.

 

 

 

Revolutionizing enterprise infrastructure with Azure Private MEC and Azure Private 5G Core

 

 

On the enterprise side, Azure Private MEC brings the power of the cloud to the enterprise's own infrastructure. By combining cloud-managed edge servers, networking, and services, Azure Private MEC allows for exclusive control and customization over computing resources. This is particularly beneficial for enterprises that require high levels of security and control over their data and applications.

 

A key component of Azure Private MEC is the Private 5G Network, powered by our Azure Private 5G Core. This technology provides a secure, high-performance network infrastructure that supports the demands of modern applications. With the Azure Private 5G Core, developers can create network-aware applications that take full advantage of the low latency and high bandwidth that 5G offers.

 

For example, Azure Private MEC can be leveraged for applications within the fields of industrial automation and robotics, where low latency is crucial for real-time control and coordination of machines. Similarly, it can be used to support the functioning of autonomous vehicles, where high-speed, reliable connectivity is essential for safe operation. These applications can provide unprecedented levels of efficiency and precision, transforming the way industries operate.

 

This symbiotic relationship between developers, users, enterprise, and operators is a testament to the transformative potential of 5G, Azure Public MEC, and Azure Private MEC. It's an exciting time for developers who are at the forefront of creating the next generation of connected applications.

 

 

 

Watch the Build on-demand session for Learn Live: Enterprise 5G technologies for Azure Cloud Services.

 

 

 

Build network-aware applications with Azure Programmable Connectivity (APC)

 

 

Two key components of Modern Connected Apps exist in the form of Network APIs and Azure Programmable Connectivity (APC). Network APIs enable applications to directly interact with and program operators’ networks. Operators are creating new network capabilities to enhance application connectivity or provide them with new advanced features such as edge discovery, on-demand quality of service, and device location tracking. In turn, these capabilities are exposed via Network APIs. APC is designed to enhance network-aware applications by providing developers with one single interface to access network APIs from multiple operators. Further streamlining the process, developers only have to write code once with an Azure experience.

 

APC is currently in private preview. Developers can apply to APC’s Early Access Program and experiment with Network APIs here: Microsoft Forms

 

 

 

Watch the Build on-demand session for Write network-aware applications with Azure Programmable Connectivity.

 

 

 

Boosting development with the ISV Program

 

The ISV Program for Azure Private MEC is a significant step forward in our commitment to empowering developers. This program provides Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) with technical guidance on best practices for integrating solutions with Azure Private MEC, including testing and validation in the Azure Private MEC ISV Lab. This kind of support is meant to accelerate the development and time-to-market of Modern Connected Applications.

 

For enterprises, the ISV Program unlocks the value of their private 5G investments. It provides access to a robust ecosystem of validated solutions that support a wide range of use cases (including robotics, Video AI, and IoT), serving different industries that have adopted Azure Private MEC. These solutions are available today on Azure Marketplace.

 

To learn more about the ISV program, we invite you to watch this video.

 

 

 

Create new Modern Connected Applications with MEC Solution accelerator

 

 

Today, 5G is unlocking new possibilities for applications that were previously deemed to be out of reach. From smart roads that can notify government personnel or drivers of obstacles in real time, to smart airports that can identify runway issues before they threaten safety, a new class of real-time and mission-critical applications is emerging.

 

At Microsoft, we recognize the transformative potential of 5G, and we are continuously releasing new resources to help developers get started quickly and efficiently.

 

 

 

The MEC Application Solution Accelerator is an open-source example application that offers a common foundation based on a light microservices architecture designed for the edge. It includes Kubernetes, Docker containers, and the Dapr framework. It also includes AI model inferencing capabilities with an example deep learning model that analyzes video coming from cameras, as well as MQTT event-driven communication that follows a publish/subscription pattern to raise events/alerts after detecting issues with the AI models.

 

 

 

Below, you can see a high-level architecture diagram of this example MEC/EDGE application (MEC Application Solution Accelerator):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To begin the process, you can start from this open-source example code and fork it from its original GitHub site to develop your own application that’s specific to your industry and business – whether you’re trying to create an application for smart roads, airports, or manufacturing, or another application entirely. For smart factories, smart roads, and airports use cases, we have created business and technical use case guides that explain key considerations and components of the application infrastructure, application architecture, and network architecture.

 

 

 

Watch the Build on-demand session for Develop Modern Connected Applications on 5G, MEC/Eduge, Space, and Azure.

 

 

 

It’s time to get started

 

 

 

 

Microsoft has a wealth of resources that can help you get started on building Modern Connected Applications using 5G, edge computing, and the cloud today.

 

 

 

Visit any of the links below to learn more.

 

 

 

 

 

Learn	Download the business case and technical design guide for deeper understanding of the value drivers and technical approach for smart factories
To find out more about how 5G technology is powering digital operations, download the Digital Operations Signals study.
Learn more about our vision for 5G in a blog post by Microsoft Corporate Vice President Martin Lund
Learn more about Public Multi-Access Edge Compute (MEC) here: Azure public multi-access-edge compute documentation
Learn more about how 5G is opening up new opportunities in other industries like smart roads and smart airports
Develop	Read more about how to create your own modern connected application using the solution accelerator and upskill with the 5G Cloud Skills Challenge
Build your own Private 5G network with the 5G Starter Kit
Connect	Connect with a Microsoft expert to get started with a proof of concept or to learn about total cost of ownership for 5G use cases
Sign up for news and updates on 5G Modern Connected Applications

 

Continue reading...