Singtel, in collaboration with Ericsson and MediaTek claims to have successfully completed the first trial of reduced capability (RedCap) technology on its live 5G network.
RedCap is an upgrade to existing 5G networks designed to support Internet of Things (IoT) devices, like smartwatches and industrial sensors.
The month-long trial has been conducted at five standalone (SA) 5G locations in Singapore, using Ericsson’s RedCap platform and a MediaTek testing device.
Singtel said RedCap facilitates the transition of IoT devices from Long-Term Evolution (LTE) to New Radio (NR), providing significantly better connectivity and more reliable user experiences.
It will also enable 5G capabilities including network slicing and mobile edge computing that support in development of new use cases.
Singtel's managing director for networks, Tay Yeow Lian, said RedCap reduces the complexity, size and capabilities of device platforms, enabling cost-efficient integration into IoT devices.
MediaTek estimates RedCap can reduce power consumption for end-users and the footprint of chipsets by 60 per cent compared with existing 4G IoT devices, while Ericsson predicted a potential reduction in IoT device production costs of 50 per cent to 70 per cent.
The partners hope RedCap will open up a new possibilities for communication service providers, allowing for the introduction of services beyond enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) on 5G standalone architecture.
