Revolutionizing IoT Connectivity with 5G Advanced
Canadian telco Rogers Communications has begun rolling out Ericsson’s 5G Advanced RedCap software on its national network, marking a significant milestone in the country’s 5G journey. This technology is designed to enhance network efficiency and IoT connectivity, while supporting the deployment of IoT devices such as sensors, cameras, and monitoring equipment. The 5G Advanced technology, also known as 5G-A, is a significant upgrade to the existing 5G network, offering improved performance and efficiency. With the deployment of RedCap software, Rogers aims to optimize network resources, reduce latency, and increase overall network reliability. Key Highlights of Rogers’ 5G Advanced Rollout:
• Enhanced IoT connectivity: RedCap software enables more efficient support for IoT devices, such as smartwatches and cameras, while improving battery life for wearables. • Network slicing: Rogers will deliver priority service to first responders and rural users, ensuring better connectivity and faster data speeds. • Nationwide 5G investment: The telco builds on its 5G SA core and spectrum gains with cloud RAN, slicing trials, and broader rural reach, aiming for better resiliency, speed, and sustainability.
Technology and Benefits
The RedCap software is a key component of Rogers’ 5G Advanced rollout, enabling the telco to optimize network resources and support the deployment of IoT devices. This technology also supports longer battery life for wearables and devices, making it an attractive option for businesses and consumers. Mark Kennedy, Rogers’ Chief Technology Officer, stated: “5G Advanced will help unlock the full potential of 5G for businesses and consumers. We continue to invest in Canada’s largest 5G network and are proud to be the first in Canada to bring 5G-Advanced technology to our customers.”
Jeanette Irekvist, President of Ericsson Canada, added: “The deployment of Ericsson 5G Advanced will enable differentiated connectivity and deliver high-performing programmable networks that will ensure Canadian consumers and businesses are among the first to access the newest global technologies.”
Rogers’ 5G Cloud-RAN Trial
Last year, Rogers conducted a trial of 5G cloud-radio access network (cloud RAN) technology in partnership with Ericsson. The trial was performed during a recent Toronto Blue Jays game on Canada Day. This trial marked the first time that cloud RAN has been deployed over a commercial network at a live event in Canada. The telco stated that this technology builds on its national 5G SA core network, which Rogers initially launched in 2021. The operator noted that this new technology will enable Rogers to make 5G technological advancements, improve network reliability and resiliency, and ultimately improve energy efficiency.
Rogers’ 5G Network Slicing Trials
In February 2024, Rogers Communications conducted a nationwide live test of 5G network slicing technology in partnership with Ericsson. The test was performed in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. The operator tested 5G network slicing technology on its 5G SA network, demonstrating its ability to deliver priority service to first responders and separate fixed and mobile traffic on its national 5G network. Rogers plans to use this technology to offer a dedicated network slice for first responders, accelerating the expansion of 5G wireless home internet to more rural and remote communities across Canada.
Nationwide 5G Spectrum Acquisition
In November 2023, Rogers Communications secured nationwide 5G spectrum, acquiring 3.8 GHz spectrum in the country’s third 5G spectrum auction. The operator acquired 40.5 megahertz of 3.8 GHz spectrum across 172 regions available under the spectrum auction. This spectrum will complement the spectrum in the 3.5 GHz band that Rogers currently holds, covering not only urban areas but also rural and Indigenous communities across the country.
| Key Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| RedCap software | Enhances IoT connectivity, optimizes network resources, and supports longer battery life for wearables. |
| Network slicing | Delivers priority service to first responders and rural users, ensuring better connectivity and faster data speeds. |
| Cloud RAN | Improves network reliability and resiliency, and ultimately improves energy efficiency. |
| 5G SA core network | Enables Rogers to make 5G technological advancements, improve network reliability and resiliency, and ultimately improve energy efficiency. |
Conclusion
Rogers’ deployment of Ericsson’s 5G Advanced RedCap software marks a significant milestone in the country’s 5G journey. The technology is designed to enhance network efficiency and IoT connectivity, while supporting the deployment of IoT devices such as sensors, cameras, and monitoring equipment. With the deployment of RedCap software, Rogers aims to optimize network resources, reduce latency, and increase overall network reliability. The telco also plans to deliver priority service to first responders and rural users, ensuring better connectivity and faster data speeds. As Rogers continues to invest in its 5G network and expand its rural reach, the telco is poised to play a key role in shaping Canada’s 5G landscape. With its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, Rogers is well-positioned to unlock the full potential of 5G for businesses and consumers in Canada.
