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Singtel first to successfully trial 5G RedCap technology for IoT devices in Singapore

The next-generation 5G technology provides a cost-effective and power-efficient solution for enterprises to deploy new use cases and IoT solutions at scale

Press release
Dec 13, 2023
Ericsson Digital Fabric image.

Singapore, 13 December 2023 – Singtel announced today that it has successfully completed Singapore’s first trial of reduced capability technology - the next evolution of 5G radio technology, also known as RedCap, on its live 5G network in collaboration with Ericsson and MediaTek. RedCap is specifically designed to support mid-tier Internet of Things (IoT) devices, like smartwatches and industrial sensors.

RedCap technology provides IoT devices with lower data flow and reliable connectivity which reduces power consumption, resulting in a significant increase in the battery life of devices. With this technology, businesses can address the challenges of replacing batteries in IoT devices, particularly in remote areas, as well as that of high device production costs. According to MediaTek’s 5G RedCap Modem report1, RedCap is estimated to reduce power consumption for end users and chipset printed circuit board (PCB) area by 60% compared to existing 4G IoT devices. Further research by Ericsson2 also showed that RedCap is expected to lower IoT device production costs for manufacturers by 50% to 70%.

Mr Tay Yeow Lian, Managing Director (Networks), Singtel, Singapore, said, “The successful completion of this trial is an important step forward for the telco sector. With RedCap technology, the complexity, size and capabilities of device platforms are considerably reduced, enabling cost-efficient integration into IoT devices. This unlocks opportunities for a multitude of devices to be connected to the 5G network, contributing to the expansion of the 5G ecosystem and supporting new designs for more scalable IoT innovations and applications.”

Part of Singtel’s continued efforts to enhance its 5G capabilities to support the development of new innovative use cases for consumers and enterprises, the month-long trial took place across five different Singtel 5G standalone (SA) locations, utilising Ericsson’s RedCap solution and MediaTek’s RedCap testing device.

Transforming Singapore’s IoT landscape

According to estimates from the Infocomm Media Development Authority of Singapore, the IoT market in Singapore experienced a 20% compound annual growth rate, reaching US$1.1 billion in 2022. This growth was driven by smart nation initiatives and Industry 4.0 efforts, particularly in the manufacturing and logistics sector. RedCap technology plays a crucial role in facilitating the transition of IoT devices from Long-Term Evolution (LTE) to New Radio (NR), providing significantly better connectivity and more reliable user experiences which aid the development of more innovative use cases. Additionally, the migration to NR opens up opportunities for 5G capabilities like network slicing and mobile edge computing (MEC). This allows network operators to provide differentiated services tailored to specific use cases such as industrial automation.

Mr Raymond Soh, Head of Network Solutions for Ericsson Singapore and Philippines, said, “Ericsson RedCap will open up a new world of possibilities for communication service providers, allowing for the introduction of services beyond enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) on 5G standalone architecture, broadening the ecosystem and offering new monetisation opportunities in both the consumer and industrial spaces.”

Mr Miles Sun, General Manager of Corporate Sales Asia and Africa at MediaTek, said, "MediaTek is committed to driving global market advancements in 5G. Our collaborative efforts with Singtel and Ericsson have enabled us to empower IoT platforms with a state-of-the-art 5G RedCap modem, creating new exciting opportunities for the ecosystem of operators and device makers."

Award-winning 5G network performance

The successful trial of RedCap technology is one of many 5G achievements for Singtel. To date, Singtel’s 5G standalone coverage spans over 1,600 outdoor locations and 800 buildings, including underground train lines.

Singtel’s 5G network has received multiple accolades for its high-quality performance and user experience. Most recently, in October this year, Singtel was named the Global Winner from OpenSignal for 5G Game Experience and 5G Video Experience. It was also recognised for having the network with the world’s Best 5G Coverage Experience in May this year. Opensignal awards are highly regarded in the telecom industry, celebrating innovation and excellence in 5G mobile network performance and user experience among operators worldwide. Singtel recently launched Singapore’s best value 5G plans, providing its customers generous phone discounts, loyalty vouchers, large data bundles, worldwide roaming and enhanced security.

About Singtel

Singtel is Asia's leading communications technology group, providing a portfolio of services from next-generation communication, 5G and technology services to infotainment to both consumers and businesses. The Group has presence in Asia, Australia and Africa and reaches over 760 million mobile customers in 21 countries. Its infrastructure and technology services for businesses span 21 countries, with more than 428 direct points of presence in 362 cities.

For consumers, Singtel delivers a complete and integrated suite of services, including mobile, broadband and TV. For businesses, Singtel offers a complementary array of workforce mobility solutions, data hosting, cloud, network infrastructure, analytics and cyber security capabilities.

Singtel is dedicated to continuous innovation, harnessing technology to create new and exciting customer experiences and shape a more sustainable, digital future.

For more information, visit www.singtel.com
Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SingtelNews

About Ericsson

Ericsson enables communications service providers and enterprises to capture the full value of connectivity. The company’s portfolio spans the following business areas: Networks, Cloud Software and Services, Enterprise Wireless Solutions, Global Communications Platform, and Technologies and New Businesses. It is designed to help our customers go digital, increase efficiency and find new revenue streams. Ericsson’s innovation investments have delivered the benefits of mobility and mobile broadband to billions of people globally. Ericsson stock is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and on Nasdaq New York. www.ericsson.com

About MediaTek

MediaTek Incorporated (TWSE: 2454) is a global fabless semiconductor company that enables nearly 2 billion connected devices a year. We are a market leader in developing innovative systems-on-chip (SoC) for mobile, home entertainment, connectivity and IoT products. Our dedication to innovation has positioned us as a driving market force in several key technology areas, including highly power-efficient mobile technologies, automotive solutions and a broad range of advanced multimedia products such as smartphones, tablets, digital televisions, 5G, Voice Assistant Devices (VAD) and wearables. MediaTek empowers and inspires people to expand their horizons and achieve their goals through smart technology, more easily and efficiently than ever before. We work with the brands you love to make great technology accessible to everyone, and it drives everything we do. Visit www.mediatek.com for more information.

Media contacts:

Singtel
Malini Nathan
Director, Group Strategic Communications and Brand
Mobile: +65 8129 6013
Email: malini.nathan@singtel.com

Chong Huai Jiao
Manager, Group Strategic Communications and Brand
Mobile: +65 9862 3237
Email: huaijiao.chong@singtel.com

Ericsson

Ruchika Batra
Head of News & PR, Southeast Asia, Oceania and India
Email: Ruchika.batra@ericsson.com

MediaTek

Brad Molen
Sr Media and Analyst Relations Manager
Email: Brad.Molen@mediatek.com