3GPP R18 Freeze: A Major Leap for 5G-Advanced

On June 18, 2024, at the 104th 3GPP RAN meeting in Shanghai, the Release 18 (R18) standard was officially frozen. This milestone marks the beginning of 5G-Advanced (5G-A) standardization, setting a crucial foundation for the evolution and deployment of next-generation 5G networks.

3GPP R18 Freeze introduces key advancements, expanding 5G capabilities to support new use cases like networked drones, air-to-ground communication, and immersive VR/AR. It also enhances RedCap technology for low-cost, low-power devices, crucial for the growth of IoT. Additionally, R18 Freeze explores ultra-dense deployment (UDD) to optimize TDD performance, laying the groundwork for future 6G developments.

With the R18 freeze, the essential elements for 5G-A—standards, services, products, terminals, commercialization, and policies—are now in place. This enables accelerated progress towards widespread 5G-A deployment, with regions like the Middle East leading the way in commercialization and other regions actively testing enhanced capabilities.

As 5G-A progresses, key developments include network upgrades, RedCap ecosystem growth, integrated sensing trials, and advancements in network intelligence and NTN. SIMCom, a global leader in IoT solutions, is ready for the 5G-A era with its 5G Advanced modules—SIM8270X and SIM8390X, powered by Qualcomm Technologies' Snapdragon® X72 and X75 systems. These modules, designed for 5G vertical applications, offer enhanced bandwidth, lower latency, and reduced power consumption across major global markets. With the R18 Freeze, 5G-A is poised to drive the next wave of innovation, transforming industries and connectivity.