"REDCAP CAN IGNITE A NEW ERA OF 5G INNOVATION"

Extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) allows devices to enter a deep sleep state, only waking up when necessary to check for network updates

- SANDEEP SAXENA

What is Redcap in 5G networks, and how does it differ from standard 5G?

Reduced Capability, or RedCap, is a technology introduced in 3GPP Release 17 to deliver lower-cost IoT devices that can operate on 5G and satisfy the design requirements for mid-range IoT use cases. While standard 5G devices, like smartphones, are designed with complex hardware and power-hungry features, RedCap targets a different category of devices, such as smartwatches, smart glasses, health trackers, and industrial sensors. These devices need longer battery life and lower data rates than typical 5G devices.

RedCap simplifies IoT devices by reducing hardware complexity, lowering their cost and size, and maintaining optimal performance for the desired use cases. This reduction in complexity is achieved by lowering the UE RF bandwidth and receive (Rx) branches, relaxing the maximum modulation order and allowing Half-duplex FDD operation. Additionally, RedCap incorporates energy-saving features to enhance the battery life of these devices. Nokia has played a pivotal role, working with the telecom industry to advance RedCap IoT functionality.

What are the primary use cases for Redcap, especially within the telecom industry?