T-Mobile US and TCL have unveiled a revolutionary 5G RedCap USB-C dongle, the TCL LINKPORT IK511, in North America. Utilizing the Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System, it delivers impressive speeds up to 220Mb/s.
Samsung and MediaTek have successfully tested 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) technology over virtualized Radio Access Networks (vRAN), potentially extending battery life for IoT devices. The test, carried out in Samsung’s R&D lab in Korea, utilized Samsung’s vRAN 3.0 software, OpenRAN compliant radio, and MediaTek’s M60 modem-equipped RedCap testing platform.
Telefonica Deutschland recently conducted a successful trial of 5G RedCap devices, promising to revolutionize IoT connectivity. Offering increased data rates, minimal latency, and longer battery life, this development is one step closer towards creating a smoother and more efficient IoT field.
Ericsson, Vodafone, and Qualcomm Technologies recently pioneered data transmission via RedCap on a European network for the first time, unlocking a more streamlined, efficient mode of connectivity for IoT and other devices. Tested on Vodafone Spain’s 5G platform, the Ericsson’s RedCap technology enhances connectivity potential while providing economic and efficient data transmission. Furthermore, the demonstration introduced a new technology, New Radio Light, for extending battery life of customer devices.
Telecommunication giant BT, in collaboration with Nokia and MediaTek, is exploring the potential of 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Recently conducted trials at BT’s research centre aimed at uncovering new use-cases for this technology, which, simplified and less complex than 4G, promises a more efficient IoT ecosystem. As suggested by BT’s Chief Networks Officer, Greg McCall, the RedCap technology could “unlock a new wave of innovation” within the 5G landscape.
Qualcomm Technologies and STMicroelectronics are set to revolutionize industrial IoT applications with an integrated Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Thread SoC and STM32 microcontroller combo. These joint offerings aim to streamline development, enhancing seamless connectivity and edge AI on STM32 MCUs.
Huawei and UAE telecom provider du have deployed the first indoor 5G-Advanced network in the Middle East, utilizing three carrier aggregation technology. This network delivers peak data rates of 5.1Gbps, enhancing indoor connectivity in shopping malls, hotels, airports, and residential buildings.
Infovista has unveiled the latest version of its AI-driven RF planning tool, Infovista Planet, which now supports 5G RedCap network planning. This advancement allows operators’ network planning teams to incorporate 3GPP-compliant 5G RedCap devices in their analyses and simulations of 5G Standalone networks. Currently, 17 out of 126 mobile operators investing in 5G Standalone are exploring 5G RedCap for emerging applications, according to the GSA.
The cellular Internet of Things (IoT) market is set to undergo a significant transformation, thanks to the advancements in eSIM technology, as highlighted in recent research conducted by Omdia. The adoption of eSIM is expected to skyrocket, driven by the GSMA SGP.31/32 specifications, offering unprecedented efficiency, flexibility, and choice to enterprises across the globe.
In a recent study by Juniper Research, the forecast for 5G service revenues in 2024 shows a substantial increase of 32%, reaching an impressive $400 billion. As consumer 5G adoption approaches saturation, the study emphasizes the crucial role of 5G Advanced and 5G RedCap (Reduced Capacity) in sustaining this growth, particularly by targeting enterprise IoT users.
