Verizon, Ericsson, and MediaTek successfully completed data and voice (VoNR) sessions over Verizon's 5G network using Ericsson's new RedCap compatible software (NR light functionality) and MediaTek's RedCap testing platform. According to the joint statement, this development enables lower-complexity and lower-cost 5G devices, including consumer wearables, fitness trackers, mobile medical devices, enterprise IoT solutions, and more.
Also Read: Telstra and Ericsson Validate VoNR Through RedCap on Commercial 5G Network
Efficient Paths for Devices
"These devices, many of which have audio functions requiring voice connections, typically transmit and receive smaller amounts of data than smartphones, wireless routers or more robust enterprise solutions."
The new software and chipset technology provide more efficient paths for these low-cost, low-power devices to operate on Verizon's 5G network. This can lead to devices with longer battery lives and improved efficiency.
Network Transformation
"The network transformation we have undergone the past few years has brought us to this place of having a highly sophisticated and customizable network able to provide a range of capabilities needed for a variety of devices. The evolution of this new light software coupled with the technologies deployed throughout our 5G network will allow us to provide the best possible experience for our customers in an efficient manner and will drive the 5G ecosystem with low-cost, energy-efficient devices," said Verizon.
Benefits for Consumers and Enterprises
"Pioneering both data and VoNR calls on both low and mid-bands on Verizon's 5G standalone network demonstrates the capability of Ericsson RedCap as a software to boost a whole new range of use cases for both consumers and enterprises," said Ericsson. It enables devices like wearables, IoT devices, AR glasses, and more to operate efficiently on 5G networks.
Also Read: Ericsson and MediaTek Test RedCap Interoperability for 5G SA
Use of Different Spectrum Bands
According to the statement, the trials included data and voice sessions using different spectrum bands, such as C-band TDD spectrum and 5G over 850 MHz FDD spectrum, in Verizon's production network using Verizon's 5G standalone core.
Ecosystem Expansion
The introduction of New Radio (NR) RedCap devices is expected to expand the 5G ecosystem by enabling efficient resource allocation for specific use cases. This technology has the potential to offer improved data rates, latency, energy efficiency, and spectrum efficiency compared to LTE.
Also Read: Verizon Expedites 5G Ultra Wideband Expansion With Full C-Band Access
Future Development
Once this technology is deployed in the commercial network, Verizon intends to collaborate with developers to accelerate the development of 5G devices and drive the ecosystem forward.
The collaboration between Verizon, Ericsson, and MediaTek represents a significant step towards enabling a wider range of affordable and power-efficient 5G devices, contributing to the growth and development of the 5G ecosystem.
