Ericsson, in partnership with e&UAE, has successfully completed end-to-end validation of its Reduced Capability (RedCap) software solution on the service provider’s 5G Standalone (5G SA) network, expanding the ecosystem for a new type of device that can connect to 5G. This marks the first implementation of Ericsson’s RedCap solution in a commercial network in the Middle East and Africa region (MEA).
Ericsson Reduced Capability (RedCap), a Radio Access Network (RAN) software, will enable e&UAE to deploy services beyond enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) on a 5G standalone architecture, expanding the 5G ecosystem and providing new monetization opportunities for both consumer and industrial segments.
RedCap can effectively reduce the complexity, size and capabilities of a new set of 5G Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as wearables and industrial sensors, making them more cost-effective and extending battery life while maintaining sufficient data speeds.
The tests were conducted on e&UAE’s live 5G SA network, with RedCap enabled in both Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) and Time Division Duplex (TDD) spectrum. Additionally, e&UAE and Ericsson have jointly developed a testing framework aimed at certifying new RedCap devices before they are deployed on e&UAE’s 5G Standalone network. The next step is to expand RedCap implementation across e&UAE’s commercial network as it evolves to 5G Advanced.
Ericsson has a long-standing partnership with e&UAE and the two companies are working closely to deliver cutting-edge 5G networks, enabling consumers, businesses and industries to enjoy the benefits of rich connectivity and enhanced mobility.
Marwan bin Shakur, Senior Vice President, Access Network Development, e&UAE
e&UAE is committed to building a flagship network leveraging the latest technologies in the telecommunications industry. Ericsson, a global technology leader, is a trusted partner in achieving our goal. Their RedCap solution will open the door to a world of new possibilities, enabling us to extend our current diverse 5G connectivity options to new segments for consumers, enterprises and industrial users.
Ekow Nelson, vice president and head of e&Global Customer Unit, Ericsson Middle East and Africa
The capabilities that RedCap offers represent the next wave in the evolution of seamless connectivity and interaction enabled by 5G. RedCap will support devices such as wearables, industrial sensors and cameras at fast enough speeds, while improving spectral efficiency in a more cost-effective and energy-efficient manner. Our partnership with e&UAE on this implementation marks another step in the company’s 5G Advanced journey, unlocking connectivity capabilities that will enable us to automate, innovate and monetize 5G in entirely new ways.
