Vodafone, Ericsson, and Qualcomm have made strides in revolutionizing 5G technology for the Internet of Things (IoT). Through trials on Vodafone’s 5G test network CREATE in Spain, the consortium successfully implemented Reduced Capability (RedCap) RAN, tailoring basic connectivity for low-complexity, low-power IoT devices. This breakthrough enables a wide array of sensors, meters, and asset trackers to harness the power of 5G without the extensive requirements of smartphones, ushering in a new era of efficient IoT connectivity.
Utilizing New Radio Light (NR Light) technology, the trials showcased the connection of less capable IoT devices to 5G networks. NR Light facilitates the integration of smaller, cost-effective IoT products with extended battery life. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X35 modem played a pivotal role in this demonstration, specifically designed for NR Light applications.
While smartphones demand full 5G capabilities, RedCap and NR Light pave the way for basic connectivity in IoT devices, promising advancements in smart meters, wearables, remote sensors, and beyond. The ongoing collaboration between the companies aims to refine 5G technology for low-bandwidth IoT devices, anticipating commercial product launches as early as 2024. This development marks a significant leap towards unlocking innovative IoT use cases and accelerating the adoption of 5G advancements in the realm of IoT.
