5G-Advanced Store and Forward (S&F): Enabling Resilient IoT Communications via Satellite

Introduction

As the deployment of 5G networks continues to expand globally, the industry is already looking ahead to enhance capabilities through 5G-Advanced features. Among these innovations is the "Store and Forward" (S&F) functionality for Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), which represents a significant advancement for IoT applications utilizing satellite connectivity. This feature, specified in 3GPP Release 19, addresses one of the key challenges in satellite communications: maintaining service continuity during intermittent feeder link connectivity.

What is Store and Forward?

Store and Forward (S&F) satellite operation is designed to provide communication services for User Equipment (UE) under satellite coverage without requiring a simultaneous active feeder link connection to the ground segment. This capability is particularly relevant for delay-tolerant IoT services utilizing Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) satellites.

In simple terms, S&F enables satellites to:

• Collect data from IoT devices when they're in range
• Store this data onboard the satellite
• Forward the data to ground stations only when a connection becomes available

This approach fundamentally differs from traditional satellite operations, which require end-to-end connectivity at the moment of transmission.

Source: 3GPP TR 22.865: Technical Specification Group Services and System Aspects; Study on satellite access Phase 3;

Normal Operation vs. Store and Forward

To understand the significance of S&F, it's important to contrast it with the "normal/default satellite operation" mode:

Normal/Default Satellite Operation

In the traditional model, signalling and data traffic exchange between a UE with satellite access and the ground network requires both service and feeder links to be active simultaneously. This creates a continuous end-to-end connectivity path between the UE, satellite, and ground network.

Store and Forward Operation

Under S&F operation, the end-to-end exchange of signalling/data traffic is handled as a two-step process that doesn't need to occur concurrently:

• Step A: Signalling/data exchange between the UE and satellite takes place even without the satellite being connected to the ground network. The satellite operates the service link without an active feeder link connection, collecting and storing data from IoT devices.
• Step B: Later, when connectivity between the satellite and ground network is established, the stored communications are transmitted to the ground network.

This approach bears similarities to existing store-and-forward services like SMS, where end-to-end connectivity between endpoints isn't required simultaneously.

Source: Ericsson Blog

Technical Requirements for Store and Forward

The implementation of S&F relies heavily on regenerative satellite payloads, as opposed to transparent payloads. Here's why this distinction matters:

Regenerative Payload Advantages

A regenerative payload with an onboard gNB (next-generation NodeB) offers several critical capabilities:

• Onboard Processing: The ability to process and store data directly on the satellite
• Reduced Dependency: Less reliance on continuous ground segment connectivity
• Enhanced Resilience: The NTN can function even if the feeder link is temporarily severed
• Performance Improvements: Significant reductions in roundtrip time for all procedures between the gNB and UE

For S&F functionality, all or part of the core network functions must be placed on the satellite together with the gNB. This architectural change enables a new level of autonomous operation for satellite networks.

Applications for IoT

The Store and Forward capability is especially suited for delay-tolerant or non-real-time IoT applications. Examples include:

• Environmental Monitoring: Collecting sensor data from remote locations
• Asset Tracking: Monitoring the status of assets in transit through areas with limited ground infrastructure
• Agricultural Sensing: Gathering data from widely distributed sensors in rural areas
• Maritime and Offshore IoT: Supporting connected devices at sea where direct connectivity to ground networks is inconsistent

These use cases benefit from S&F's ability to ensure data is eventually delivered without requiring constant connectivity, which is particularly valuable for battery-powered IoT devices that need to conserve energy.

Relationship to Delay-Tolerant Networking

The concept of Store and Forward is well-established in delay-tolerant networking (DTN) and disruption-tolerant networking domains. These networking paradigms are designed to work in challenged environments where conventional protocols may fail due to long delays or frequent disruptions.

In the 3GPP context, S&F can be compared to SMS service, which doesn't require end-to-end connectivity between endpoints but only between the endpoints and the Short Message Service Centre (SMSC), which acts as an intermediate node handling storage and forwarding.

Future Implications

The introduction of S&F functionality represents an important step toward what Ericsson has called "data centers in the sky." By placing not just radio access network functions but also core network capabilities in space, we're moving toward satellite networks that can operate with greater autonomy and resilience.

This development also aligns with broader industry efforts to create truly global coverage through integrated ground and space networks. Combined with inter-satellite links (ISL), S&F enables more flexible and resilient network architectures that can maintain service even when individual links are unavailable.

Conclusion

Store and Forward represents a significant advancement in 5G-Advanced satellite communications, particularly for IoT applications. By decoupling the timing requirements between service link and feeder link communications, S&F enables more resilient, energy-efficient, and cost-effective deployment of IoT devices in remote or challenging environments.

As 3GPP Release 19 specifications continue to develop, we can expect to see this capability integrated into commercial satellite IoT offerings, expanding the reach of 5G networks to truly global coverage. While initially targeted at IoT applications, the architectural principles of S&F could eventually extend to other services, bringing us closer to ubiquitous connectivity across terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.

Related Posts

• The 3G4G Blog: Tutorial Session on Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and 3GPP Standards from 5G to 6G
• Connectivity Technology Blog: Tutorial Session on Current Trends and Key Challenges of Satellite communications
• Free 6G Training: ATIS Webinar on 'Introduction to 3GPP Release 19 and 6G Planning'
• The 3G4G Blog: Low Latency Power Saving with Low Power-Wake Up Signal/Receiver (LP-WUS/LP-WUR)
• The 3G4G Blog: Small Data Transmission (SDT) in LTE and 5G NR
• The 3G4G Blog: 3GPP TSG RAN and TSG SA Release-19 Workshop Summary
• The 3G4G Blog: Are there 50 Billion IoT Devices yet?
• 3G4G: An Quick Introduction to 3GPP 

Beyond KPIs: The Role of Key Value Indicators (KVIs) in 6G

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) have long been the primary benchmarks for evaluating mobile network performance. However, as 6G moves towards a broader societal and environmental impact, the European Hexa-X-II project and its partners advocate for integrating Key Values (KVs) and Key Value Indicators (KVIs) into network design and evaluation.

On 18 December 2024, Hexa-X-II hosted an insightful webinar to highlight the significance of KVIs in shaping the future of 6G. The session underscored how KVIs can complement KPIs by assessing technology’s impact on sustainability, digital inclusion, trust, and ethical considerations. 

While the video hasn't been shared, you can download the slides from here.

Why KVIs Matter in 6G Development

Traditionally, mobile network development has been driven by KPIs—throughput, latency, reliability, and spectrum efficiency. However, as 6G aims to support broader global goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a shift towards value-based design is necessary. Hexa-X-II proposes a structured methodology where:

• Human and Planetary Goals are identified (e.g., sustainability, digital inclusion, trust).
• Key Values (KVs) are derived from these goals to reflect technology’s intended benefits and potential risks.
• Key Value Indicators (KVIs) provide qualitative or quantitative measures to assess whether these values are met.

From Theory to Application: The Hexa-X-II Process

One of the core challenges in applying KVIs is the interdisciplinary nature of the assessment. Unlike KPIs, which are primarily technical, KVIs require social, economic, and environmental considerations. The Hexa-X-II approach includes:

• Defining Use Case KVIs, which assess the impact of a specific application.
• Defining Enabler KVIs, which measure how well a technical enabler (e.g., AI, NTN, RIS) contributes to key values.
• Mapping KVIs to existing KPIs where possible and identifying gaps where new indicators are needed.
• Iteratively refining KVIs based on real-world evaluations.

A Case Study: Cooperating Mobile Robots

One example discussed in the webinar was the use of cooperating mobile robots, a use case that benefits from 6G-enabled ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). While KPIs can measure performance (e.g., latency, reliability), KVIs help evaluate the broader impact, such as:

• Environmental KVIs: Energy efficiency, material usage, electronic waste reduction.
• Social KVIs: Job displacement vs. job creation, worker safety, accessibility.
• Economic KVIs: Business viability, affordability, and risk of monopolisation.

By systematically assessing these factors, the Hexa-X-II framework ensures that 6G technology is not just high-performing but also aligned with societal needs.

Lessons Learned and Future Outlook

The adoption of KVIs presents several challenges, including subjective assessments, measurement difficulties, and the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration. However, Hexa-X-II emphasises that:

• Technology impact should be continuously monitored using KVIs.
• Qualitative and quantitative assessments must be combined, rather than relying solely on measurable KPIs.
• A system-level approach is required, integrating perspectives from sustainability, business, and social sciences.

As 6G research advances, KVIs will play a crucial role in ensuring that next-generation networks contribute meaningfully to global sustainability and inclusivity. The Hexa-X-II initiative provides a foundational methodology for integrating values into the traditionally KPI-driven telecom landscape — an approach that could redefine how we measure success in the 6G era.

Related Posts: 

• Free 6G Training: Orange's Vision of Sustainability-focused Mobile Technologies for 2030 and Beyond
• Free 6G Training: Summary of 3GPP Stage-1 Workshop on IMT2030 Use Cases 

Top Posts and Videos of 2024

The 3G4G Blog continues to be a favourite among tech enthusiasts, with over 17 years of content. This year, we reached a remarkable milestone: over 3 million views in 2024, pushing our total to nearly 19 million views since Blogger began tracking in July 2010.

As 2024 draws to a close, we're excited to share the Top 10 most-viewed blog posts of the year and the Top 5 most-watched videos on our YouTube channel. It’s worth noting that while these posts and videos garnered significant attention this year, many of them were published earlier. For clarity, we've included the month and year each was posted.

Top 10 Most-Viewed Blog Posts in 2024

• 6G Global - Videos & Presentations from Mobile Korea 2023, Dec 2023
• Mobile Network Architecture: How did we get here & where should we go?, Oct 2023
• Network Slicing using User Equipment Route Selection Policy (URSP), Nov 2021
• Prof. Ted Rappaport Keynote at EuCNC & 6G Summit 2023 on 'Looking Towards the 6G Era - What we may expect, and why', Aug 2023
• Difference between SDU and PDU, Mar 2009
• New 5G NTN Spectrum Bands in FR1 and FR2, May 2023
• Two Types of SMS in 5G, Sep 2020
• Introduction to 5G ATSSS - Access Traffic Steering, Switching and Splitting, Nov 2019
• LTE to 3G Handover Procedure and Signalling, Mar 2011
• What is RF Front-End (RFFE) and why is it so Important?, Jan 2022

Interestingly, none of the blog posts published in 2024 made it into the overall Top 10, despite some being highly popular. To highlight this year's efforts, here are the Top 5 blog posts published in 2024:

Top 5 Blog Posts Published in 2024

• UE Assistance Information in LTE and 5G
• 3GPP Release 18 Description and Summary of Work Items
• Resilient Timing for Critical National Infrastructure
• Disaggregation of 5G Core (5GC) Network
• A Different Approach for Mobile Network Densification

Top 5 Most-Watched Videos on Our YouTube Channel in 2024

• Beginners: Radio Frequency, Band and Spectrum, Jul 2017
• Beginners: What is Industrial IoT (IIoT), Feb.2019
• Beginners: A Quick Introduction to 3GPP, May 2023
• Beginners: Different Types of RAN Architectures - Distributed, Centralized & Cloud, Jul 2021
• Beginners: How does the mobile technology work?, Jun 2020

We’d love to hear from you! Let us know in the comments below which post or video was your favorite—or if there’s a topic you’d like us to cover in 2025. Your feedback helps shape the future of The 3G4G Blog.

Here’s to another year of insightful content—thank you for being a part of our journey!

Related Posts: 

• Telecoms Infrastructure Blog: Top Blog posts for 2024
• Private Networks Technology Blog: Top 5 Posts for 2024
• Free 6G Training: Top 10 Posts for 2024
• Operator Watch Blog: Top 5 Posts for 2024
• Connectivity Technology Blog: Top 5 Posts for 2024
• The 3G4G Blog: Top 10 Blog Posts and Top 5 Videos for 2023
• The 3G4G Blog: Top Blog Posts of 2022
• The 3G4G Blog: Top 10 Posts for 2021 and Top 5 Videos 

Tutorial Session on Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and 3GPP Standards from 5G to 6G

Over five years ago, we introduced the concept of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) in our NTN tutorial and wrote IEEE ComSoc article, "The Role of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) in Future 5G Networks." Since then, the landscape has seen remarkable transformations with advancements in standards, innovations in satellite connectivity, and progress in real-world applications.

The 2024 Global Forum on Connecting the World from the Skies, held on November 25–26, served as a pivotal platform for stakeholders across the spectrum; policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts. Jointly organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), the event underscored NTNs' growing importance in advancing global connectivity.

A key highlight of the forum was Tutorial Session 2, delivered by Gino Masini, Principal Researcher, Standardization at Ericsson. The session, titled "Non-Terrestrial Networks and 3GPP Standards from 5G to 6G," provided an in-depth look at the evolution of NTNs and their integration into mobile networks.

Key Takeaways from the Session included:

• 3GPP Standardization Milestones:
• Release 17: NTN integration began, paving the way for seamless 5G coverage.
• Release 18: Enhanced features and capabilities, focusing on improved satellite-terrestrial convergence.
• Release 19 (Ongoing): Lays the foundation for natively integrated NTN frameworks in 6G.
• Unified Networks in 6G: A focus on radio access network architecture demonstrated how NTN can evolve from a supporting role to becoming an intrinsic component of future 6G systems.
• Industry Impact: The session highlighted how convergence between satellite and terrestrial networks is no longer aspirational but a tangible reality, fostering a truly unified global connectivity ecosystem.

With NTNs now integral to 3GPP's vision, the groundwork has been laid for scalable satellite connectivity that complements terrestrial networks. The insights shared at the forum emphasize the importance of collaboration across industry and standards organizations to unlock the full potential of NTNs in both 5G and 6G.

For those interested, the full tutorial slides and session video are embedded below.

Non-Terrestrial Networks and 3GPP Standards from 5G to 6G from 3G4G

Gino has kindly shared the slides that can be downloaded from here.

Related Posts: 

• Connectivity Technology Blog: Tutorial Session on Current Trends and Key Challenges of Satellite communications
• Connectivity Technology Blog: R&S Technical Explainer on 3GPP 5G Non Terrestrial Networks (NTN)
• Connectivity Technology Blog - Connecting the Uncharted: Space Norway’s Arctic Satellite Mission Takes Off
• Connectivity Technology Blog: Will 5G NTN Deliver on the Promised Use Cases?
• Connectivity Technology Blog: 5G NB-IoT NTN Coverage Extension by Sateliot
• Connectivity Technology Blog: KDDI Prepares for Disasters with Vehicle-Mounted Base Stations Backhauled via Starlink
• Connectivity Technology Blog: Laser Inter-Satellite Links (LISLs) in a Starlink Constellation
• Free 6G Training: The European Space Agency (ESA) Explores the Role of Satellites for 5G & 6G
• Connectivity Technology Blog: How does Plane Wi-Fi and Mobile Connectivity on Planes Work? 

Low Latency Power Saving with Low Power-Wake Up Signal/Receiver (LP-WUS/LP-WUR)

Power-saving methodologies have been integral to all generations of 3GPP technologies, aimed at reducing the power consumption of user equipment (UEs) and other battery-dependent devices. Some of the stringent requirements of 5G, such as achieving a 10-year battery life for certain IoT devices, have necessitated further optimisation of power consumption. To address this, 3GPP Release 16 introduced the Wake-Up Signal (WUS) power-saving mechanism, designed to significantly reduce energy usage in UEs. For a detailed technical explanation, ShareTechnote provides an excellent overview.

The concept of wake-up radios has been explored for over a decade. In a 2017 blog post, Ericsson highlighted how researchers had been working on designing wake-up radios and receivers, initially aimed at IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) technologies. This idea later gained traction in 3GPP discussions, culminating in a study conducted during Release 18. The findings are comprehensively documented in 3GPP TR 38.869: Study on low-power wake-up signal and receiver for NR (Release 18).

Quoting from the introduction of 3GPP 38.869:

5G systems are designed and developed targeting for both mobile telephony and vertical use cases. Besides latency, reliability, and availability, UE energy efficiency is also critical to 5G. Currently, 5G devices may have to be recharged per week or day, depending on individual's usage time. In general, 5G devices consume tens of milliwatts in RRC idle/inactive state and hundreds of milliwatts in RRC connected state. Designs to prolong battery life is a necessity for improving energy efficiency as well as for better user experience. 

Energy efficiency is even more critical for UEs without a continuous energy source, e.g., UEs using small rechargeable and single coin cell batteries. Among vertical use cases, sensors and actuators are deployed extensively for monitoring, measuring, charging, etc. Generally, their batteries are not rechargeable and expected to last at least few years as described in TR 38.875. Wearables include smart watches, rings, eHealth related devices, and medical monitoring devices. With typical battery capacity, it is challenging to sustain up to 1-2 weeks as required. 

The power consumption depends on the configured length of wake-up periods, e.g., paging cycle. To meet the battery life requirements above, eDRX cycle with large value is expected to be used, resulting in high latency, which is not suitable for such services with requirements of both long battery life and low latency. For example, in fire detection and extinguishment use case, fire shutters shall be closed and fire sprinklers shall be turned on by the actuators within 1 to 2 seconds from the time the fire is detected by sensors, long eDRX cycle cannot meet the delay requirements. eDRX is apparently not suitable for latency-critical use cases. Thus, the intention is to study ultra-low power mechanism that can support low latency in Rel-18, e.g. lower than eDRX latency.

Currently, UEs need to periodically wake up once per DRX cycle, which dominates the power consumption in periods with no signalling or data traffic. If UEs are able to wake up only when they are triggered, e.g., paging, power consumption could be dramatically reduced. This can be achieved by using a wake-up signal to trigger the main radio and a separate receiver which has the ability to monitor wake-up signal with ultra-low power consumption. Main radio works for data transmission and reception, which can be turned off or set to deep sleep unless it is turned on.

The power consumption for monitoring wake-up signal depends on the wake-up signal design and the hardware module of the wake-up receiver used for signal detecting and processing. 

The study should primarily target low-power WUS/WUR for power-sensitive, small form-factor devices including IoT use cases (such as industrial sensors, controllers) and wearables. Other use cases are not precluded, e.g.XR/smart glasses, smart phones. 

As opposed to the work on UE power savings in previous releases, this study will not require existing signals to be used as WUS. All WUS solutions identified shall be able to operate in a cell supporting legacy UEs. Solutions should target substantial gains compared to the existing Rel-15/16/17 UE power saving mechanisms. Other aspects such as detection performance, coverage, UE complexity, should be covered by the evaluation.

The Bridge Toward 6G: 5G-Advanced Evolution in 3GPP Release 19 by Xingqin Lin, @NVIDIA - https://t.co/O1d8jnB9MY#Free5Gtraining #3G4G5G #3GPP #5G #5GAdvanced #6G #AIML #NGRAN #XR #UAV #LPWUS #LPWUR #HighPerforming #LTM #SBFD #Femtocell #NTN #WAB #Relay pic.twitter.com/aSC9FuruC7

— Free 5G Training (@5Gtraining) January 2, 2024

Qualcomm's blog post looking at 'How will wireless innovations foster a greener, more sustainable future?' is also worth reading on this topic.

Related Posts: 

• The 3G4G Blog: 3GPP TSG RAN and TSG SA Release-19 Workshop Summary
• The 3G4G Blog: ETSI's Summit on Sustainability: ICT Standards for a Greener World
• The 3G4G Blog: Four Ways 5G Can Improve the Battery Life of User Equipment (UE)
• The 3G4G Blog: Energy Consumption in Mobile Networks and RAN Power Saving Schemes
• The 3G4G Blog: Reducing 5G Device Power Consumption Using Connected-mode Discontinuous Reception (C-DRX)
• The 3G4G Blog: Mobile Initiated Connection Only (MICO) mode in 5G System 

RAN, AI, AI-RAN and Open RAN

The Japanese MNO Softbank is taking an active role in trying to bring AI to RAN. In a research story published recently, they explain that AI-RAN integrates AI into mobile networks to enhance performance and enable low-latency, high-security services via distributed AI data centres. This innovative infrastructure supports applications like real-time urban safety monitoring and optimized network throughput. Through the AI-RAN Alliance, SoftBank collaborates with industry leaders to advance technology and create an ecosystem for AI-driven societal and industrial solutions.

This video provides a nice short explanation of what AI-RAN means:

SoftBank's recent developments in AI-RAN technology further its mission to integrate AI with mobile networks, highlighted by the introduction of "AITRAS." This converged solution leverages NVIDIA's Grace Hopper platform and advanced orchestrators to unify vRAN and AI applications, enabling efficient and scalable networks. By collaborating with partners like Red Hat and Fujitsu, SoftBank aims to commercialize AI-RAN globally, addressing the demands of next-generation connectivity. Together, these initiatives align with SoftBank's vision of transforming telecommunications infrastructure to power AI-driven societies. Details are available on SoftBank's page here.

Last month, theNetworkingChannel hosted a webinar looking at 'AI-RAN and Open RAN: Exploring Convergence of AI-Native Approaches in Future Telecommunication Technologies'. The slides have not been shared and the details of the speakers are available here. The webinar is embedded below:

NVIDIA has a lot more technical details available on their blog post here.

Related Posts: 

• Free 6G Training: Panel Discussion on 'Evolving AI Architectures in Support of End-to-end Heterogeneous Next Generation Networks'
• Free 6G Training: Softbank's 12 Challenges for Beyond 5G / 6G
• Private Networks Technology Blog: SoftBank's Private 5G Service that’s Custom-built for Enterprises
• Connectivity Technology Blog: Softbank's Cylindrical Antenna for HAPS to Reduce Handovers
• Connectivity Technology Blog: SoftBank to Promote Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Solutions
• Free 6G Training: AI Machine Learning RAN Intelligent Controller for 6G Open RAN
• Free 6G Training: O-RAN Alliance's nGRG Address the Use Cases, AI/ML and Security Aspects of 6G Mobile Networks
• The 3G4G Blog: What Is the Role of AI and ML in the Open RAN and 5G Future? 

4G/LTE, 5G and Private Networks in Africa

The Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) recently released its "Regional Spotlight Africa – October 2024" report. It tracks 604 public mobile networks across North and Sub-Saharan Africa, including LTE, LTE-Advanced, 5G, and fixed wireless access networks. The report gives an up-to-date view of 4G and 5G deployment in Africa, using the latest data and insights from GSA's various reports on mobile networks and satellite services.

Africa has seen major progress in telecommunications in recent years. The expansion of 4G LTE networks has improved data speeds, enhanced connectivity, and supported the spread of mobile broadband services. Looking ahead, 5G technology promises even faster speeds, lower latency, and stronger security, opening the door to new possibilities in connectivity.

The report covers key areas of mobile network development, such as:

• The current state of LTE and 5G rollouts
• LTE-Advanced advancements
• 5G standalone networks
• The growth of private networks
• Phasing out 2G and 3G technologies
• Progress in satellite services

Alongside the report, GSA hosted a regional webinar where the research team shared insights on:

• The status of LTE and LTE-Advanced in Africa and how it compares globally
• Whether 5G development is being delayed by ongoing LTE rollouts and older devices
• Recent spectrum auctions and assignments
• The transition from 2G and 3G networks
• The potential for satellite non-terrestrial (NTN) services in Africa and how operators are responding

The webinar video is available below.

Related Posts: 

• Private Networks Technology Blog: Private Networks Growth in APAC
• The 3G4G Blog: GSA's Updates on Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Numbers
• Operator Watch Blog: The Status of Mobile Networks in Latin America
• Connectivity Technology Blog: LTE vs 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) 

3GPP Release 18 Description and Summary of Work Items

The first official release of 3GPP TR 21.918: "Release 18 Description; Summary of Rel-18 Work Items" has been published. It's the first official version of 5G-Advanced. Quoting from the report: 

Release 18 specifies further improvements of the 5G-Avanced system. 

These improvements consist both in enhancements of concepts/Features introduced in the previous Releases and in the introduction of new topics.

Some of the key improvements are:

• a further integration of the Satellite (NTN) access (introduced in Rel-17) in the 5G System (5GS), 
• a more efficient support of Internet of Things (IoT), Machine-Type Communication (MTC), including by satellite coverage
• and also several aspects of proximity communication and location (Sidelink, Proximity, Location and Positioning, better support of the industrial needs (Verticals, Industries, Factories, Northbound API), Multicast and Broadcast Services (MBS), Network Slicing or Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV).

As for the new topics, some of the key aspects are:

• Energy Efficiency (EE)
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)
• eXtended, Augmented and Virtual Reality (XR, AR, VR), immersive communications

The following list is from the v1.0.0 table of contents to make it easier to find the list of topics. If it interests you, download the latest version technical report from the directory here.

5 Satellite / Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN)

5.1 General aspects

5.1.1 User plane: “5G system with satellite backhaul”

5.1.2 Discontinuous coverage: “Satellite access Phase 2”

5.1.3 Radio: "NR NTN enhancements"

5.1.4 Charging and Management aspects of Satelite

5.2 Specific aspects

5.2.1 IoT (Internet of Things) NTN enhancements

5.2.2 Guidelines for Extra-territorial 5G Systems

5.2.3 5G system with satellite access to Support Control and/or Video Surveillance

5.2.4 Introduction of the satellite L-/S-band for NR

5.2.5 Other band-related aspects of satellite

6 Internet of Things (IoT), Machine-Type Communication (MTC)

6.1 Personal IoT and Residential networks

6.2 Enhanced support of Reduced Capability (RedCap) NR devices

6.3 NR RedCap UE with long eDRX for RRC_INACTIVE State

6.4 Application layer support for Personal IoT Network

6.5 5G Timing Resiliency System

6.6 Mobile Terminated-Small Data Transmission (MT-SDT) for NR

6.7 Adding new NR FDD bands for RedCap in Rel-18

6.8 Signal level Enhanced Network Selection

6.9 IoT NTN enhancements

7 Energy Efficiency (EE)

7.1 Enhancements of EE for 5G Phase 2

7.2 Network energy savings for NR

7.3 Smart Energy and Infrastructure

8 Uncrewed Aerial Vehicles (UAV), UAS, UAM

8.1 Architecture for UAV and UAM Phase 2

8.2 Architecture for UAS Applications, Phase 2

8.3 NR support for UAV

8.4 Enhanced LTE Support for UAV

9 Sidelink, Proximity, Location and Positioning

9.1 5GC LoCation Services - Phase 3

9.2 Expanded and improved NR positioning

9.3 NR sidelink evolution

9.4 NR sidelink relay enhancements

9.5 Proximity-based Services in 5GS Phase 2

9.6 Ranging-based Service and sidelink positioning

9.7 Mobile Terminated-Small Data Transmission (MT-SDT) for NR

9.8 5G-enabled fused location service capability exposure

10 Verticals, Industries, Factories, Northbound API

10.1 Low Power High Accuracy Positioning for industrial IoT scenarios

10.2 Application enablement aspects for subscriber-aware northbound API access

10.3 Smart Energy and Infrastructure

10.4 Generic group management, exposure and communication enhancements

10.5 Service Enabler Architecture Layer for Verticals Phase 3

10.6 SEAL data delivery enabler for vertical applications

10.7 Rel-18 Enhancements of 3GPP Northbound and Application Layer interfaces and APIs

10.8 Charging Aspects of B2B

10.9 NRF API enhancements to avoid signalling and storing of redundant data

10.10 GBA_U Based APIs

10.11 Other aspects

11 Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML)

11.1 AI/ML model transfer in 5GS

11.2 AI/ML for NG-RAN

11.3 AI/ML management & charging

11.4 NEF Charging enhancement to support AI/ML in 5GS

12 Multicast and Broadcast Services (MBS)

12.1 5G MBS Phase 2

12.2 Enhancements of NR MBS

12.3 UE pre-configuration for 5MBS

12.4 Other MBS aspects

13 Network Slicing

13.1 Network Slicing Phase 3

13.2 Enhancement of NSAC for maximum number of UEs with at least one PDU session/PDN connection

13.3 Enhancement of Network Slicing UICC application for network slice-specific authentication and authorization

13.4 Charging Aspects of Network Slicing Phase 2

13.5 Charging Aspects for NSSAA

13.6 Charging enhancement for Network Slice based wholesale in roaming

13.7 Network Slice Capability Exposure for Application Layer Enablement

13.8 Other slice aspects

14 eXtended, Augmented and Virtual Reality (XR, AR, VR), immersive

14.1 XR (eXtended Reality) enhancements for NR

14.2 Media Capabilities for Augmented Reality

14.3 Real-time Transport Protocol Configurations

14.4 Immersive Audio for Split Rendering Scenarios  (ISAR)

14.5 Immersive Real-time Communication for WebRTC

14.6 IMS-based AR Conversational Services

14.7 Split Rendering Media Service Enabler

14.8 Extended Reality and Media service (XRM)

14.9 Other XR/AR/VR items

15 Mission Critical and emergencies

15.1 Enhanced Mission Critical Push-to-talk architecture phase 4

15.2 Gateway UE function for Mission Critical Communication

15.3 Mission Critical Services over 5MBS

15.4 Mission Critical Services over 5GProSe

15.5 Mission Critical ad hoc group Communications

15.6 Other Mission Critical aspects

16 Transportations (Railways, V2X, aerial)

16.1 MBS support for V2X services

16.2 Air-to-ground network for NR

16.4 Interconnection and Migration Aspects for Railways

16.5 Application layer support for V2X services; Phase 3

16.6 Enhanced NR support for high speed train scenario in frequency range 2 (FR2)

17 User Plane traffic and services

17.1 Enhanced Multiparty RTT

17.2 5G-Advanced media profiles for messaging services

17.3 Charging Aspects of IMS Data Channel

17.4 Evolution of IMS Multimedia Telephony Service

17.5 Access Traffic Steering, Switch and Splitting support in the 5G system architecture; Phase 3

17.6 UPF enhancement for Exposure and SBA

17.7 Tactile and multi-modality communication services

17.8 UE Testing Phase 2

17.9 5G Media Streaming Protocols Phase 2

17.10 EVS Codec Extension for Immersive Voice and Audio Services

17.11 Other User Plane traffic and services items

18 Edge computing

18.1 Edge Computing Phase 2

18.2 Architecture for enabling Edge Applications Phase 2

18.3 Edge Application Standards in 3GPP and alignment with External Organizations

19 Non-Public Networks

19.1 Non-Public Networks Phase 2

19.2 5G Networks Providing Access to Localized Services

19.3 Non-Public Networks Phase 2

20 AM and UE Policy

20.1 5G AM Policy

20.2 Enhancement of 5G UE Policy

20.3 Dynamically Changing AM Policies in the 5GC Phase 2

20.4 Spending Limits for AM and UE Policies in the 5GC

20.5 Rel-18 Enhancements of UE Policy

21 Service-based items

21.1 Enhancements on Service-based support for SMS in 5GC

21.2 Service based management architecture

21.3 Automated certificate management in SBA

21.4 Security Aspects of the 5G Service Based Architecture Phase 2

21.5 Service Based Interface Protocol Improvements Release 18

22 Security-centric aspects

22.1 IETF DTLS protocol profile for AKMA and GBA

22.2 IETF OSCORE protocol profiles for GBA and AKMA

22.3 Home network triggered primary authentication

22.4 AKMA phase 2

22.5 5G Security Assurance Specification (SCAS) for the Policy Control Function (PCF)

22.6 Security aspects on User Consent for 3GPP services Phase 2

22.7 SCAS for split-gNB product classes

22.8 Security Assurance Specification for AKMA Anchor Function Function (AAnF)

22.9 Other security-centric items

23 NR-only items

23.1 Not band-centric

23.1.1 NR network-controlled repeaters

23.1.2 Enhancement of MIMO OTA requirement for NR UEs

23.1.3 NR MIMO evolution for downlink and uplink

23.1.4 Further NR mobility enhancements

23.1.5 In-Device Co-existence (IDC) enhancements for NR and MR-DC

23.1.6 Even Further RRM enhancement for NR and MR-DC

23.1.7 Dual Transmission Reception (TxRx) Multi-SIM for NR

23.1.8 NR support for dedicated spectrum less than 5MHz for FR1

23.1.9 Enhancement of NR Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS)

23.1.10 Multi-carrier enhancements for NR

23.1.11 NR RF requirements enhancement for frequency range 2 (FR2), Phase 3

23.1.12 Requirement for NR frequency range 2 (FR2) multi-Rx chain DL reception

23.1.13 Support of intra-band non-collocated EN-DC/NR-CA deployment

23.1.14 Further enhancements on NR and MR-DC measurement gaps and measurements without gaps

23.1.15 Further RF requirements enhancement for NR and EN-DC in frequency range 1 (FR1)

23.1.16 Other non-band related items

23.2 Band-centric

23.2.1 Enhancements of NR shared spectrum bands

23.2.2 Addition of FDD NR bands using the uplink from n28 and the downlink of n75 and n76

23.2.3 Complete the specification support for BandWidth Part operation without restriction in NR

23.2.4 Other NR band related topics

24 LTE-only items

24.1 High Power UE (Power Class 2) for LTE FDD Band 14

24.2 Other LTE-only items

25 NR and LTE items

25.1 4Rx handheld UE for low NR bands (<1GHz) and/or 3Tx for NR inter-band UL Carrier Aggregation (CA) and EN-DC

25.2 Enhancement of UE TRP and TRS requirements and test methodologies for FR1 (NR SA and EN-DC)

25.3 Other items

26 Network automation

26.1 Enablers for Network Automation for 5G phase 3

26.2 Enhancement of Network Automation Enablers

27 Other aspects

27.1 Support for Wireless and Wireline Convergence Phase 2

27.2 Secondary DN Authentication and authorization in EPC IWK cases

27.3 Mobile IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul) for NR

27.4 Further NR coverage enhancements

27.5 NR demodulation performance evolution

27.6 NR channel raster enhancement

27.7 BS/UE EMC enhancements for NR and LTE

27.8 Enhancement on NR QoE management and optimizations for diverse services

27.9 Additional NRM features phase 2

27.10 Further enhancement of data collection for SON (Self-Organising Networks)/MDT (Minimization of Drive Tests) in NR and EN-DC

27.11 Self-Configuration of RAN Network Entities

27.12 Enhancement of Shared Data ID and Handling

27.13 Message Service within the 5G system Phase 2

27.14 Security Assurance Specification (SCAS) Phase 2

27.15 Vehicle-Mounted Relays

27.16 SECAM and SCAS for 3GPP virtualized network products

27.17 SECAM and SCAS for 3GPP virtualized network products

27.18 MPS for Supplementary Services

27.19 Rel-18 enhancements of session management policy control

27.20 Seamless UE context recovery

27.21 Extensions to the TSC Framework to support DetNet

27.22 Multiple location report for MT-LR Immediate Location Request for regulatory services

27.23 Enhancement of Application Detection Event Exposure

27.24 General Support of IPv6 Prefix Delegation in 5GS

27.25 5G Timing Resiliency System

27.26 MPS when access to EPC/5GC is WLAN

27.27 Data Integrity in 5GS

27.28 Security Enhancement on RRCResumeRequest Message Protection

28 Administration, Operation, Maintenance and Charging-centric Features

28.1 Introduction

28.2 Intent driven Management Service for Mobile Network phase 2

28.3 Management of cloud-native Virtualized Network Functions

28.4 Management of Trace/MDT phase 2

28.5 Security Assurance Specification for Management Function (MnF)

28.6 5G performance measurements and KPIs phase 3

28.7 Access control for management service

28.8 Management Aspects related to NWDAF

28.9 Management Aspect of 5GLAN

28.10 Charging Aspects of TSN

28.11 CHF Distributed Availability

28.12 Management Data Analytics phase 2

28.12 5G System Enabler for Service Function Chaining

28.13 Other Management-centric items

29 Other Rel-18 Topics

If you find them useful then please get the latest document from here.

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• The 3G4G Blog: ATIS Webinar on '5G Standards Development Update in 3GPP Release 17 and 18'
• The 3G4G Blog: 3GPP Release-18 Work Moves Into Focus as Release-17 Reaches Maturity
• The 3G4G Blog: An Early View of 3GPP Release-18 5G-Advanced Topics 

Navigating the Airwaves: The Future of Spectrum in Wi-Fi and Cellular Networks

Peter Rysavy is the president of Rysavy Research LLC, the consulting firm that he has led since 1993, focusing on computer networking, wireless technology, and mobile computing. Recently he did a presentation for Oregon Chapter of IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc). The abstract of the talk states:

Wireless communication is fundamental to our digital society, with radio spectrum the key enabling resource. Understanding the critical role of spectrum provides deep insight into how wireless technologies function and how they will evolve. This enlightening talk delves into the ingenious advancements in Wi-Fi and cellular networks to harness spectrum, including increasing efficiency, deploying new bands, aggregating channels, and dynamically sharing spectrum. Despite huge progress, formidable challenges remain in meeting soaring demands for capacity, achieving global harmonization, and ensuring coexistence with existing services. 

Key takeaways:

• There is increasing demand for wireless spectrum from technologies like WiFi and 5G cellular networks, but the amount of usable spectrum is finite.
• Different spectrum bands have tradeoffs between coverage, capacity, and ability to support new technologies. The mid-band spectrum between 2 and 6 GHz is well-suited for 5G.
• Technologies are evolving to use spectrum more efficiently through techniques like carrier aggregation, advanced modulation, massive MIMO, and puncturing in WiFi 7.
• The US lacks a clear long-term national spectrum strategy and roadmap, putting it at a disadvantage compared to countries like China, which plan spectrum allocations years in advance.
• Spectrum sharing is complex with no one-size-fits-all solution, though approaches like beamforming, dynamic spectrum access databases, and sensing show promise if challenges are addressed.
• Harmonizing spectrum use globally through conferences helps drive economies of scale in devices and supports roaming, though the US diverges in some bands like 6 GHz assigned solely to WiFi.

The video of the talk is embedded below:

The slides are available here.

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Top 10 Blog Posts and Top 5 Videos for 2023

The 3G4G Blog is our most popular blog, running for over 16 years with over 15.5 million views. With 2023 coming to an end, here are the top 10 most viewed posts from 2023 as well as top 5 most viewed videos. These posts/videos were not necessarily posted this year, so I have added the month and year each of them was posted.

1. Network Slicing using User Equipment Route Selection Policy (URSP), Nov. 2021
2. NWDAF in 3GPP Release-16 and Release-17, Feb. 2021
3. New 5G NTN Spectrum Bands in FR1 and FR2, May 2023
4. Non-public networks (NPN) - Private Networks by another name, May 2019
5. How many Cell Sites and Base Stations Worldwide?, Mar. 2023
6. What is RF Front-End (RFFE) and why is it so Important?, Jan. 2022
7. 3GPP Release 17 Description and Summary of Work Items, Dec. 2022
8. Two Types of SMS in 5G, Sep. 2020
9. ATIS Webinar on "3GPP Release 18 Overview: A World of 5G-Advanced", Feb. 2023
10. Prof. Ted Rappaport Keynote at EuCNC & 6G Summit 2023 on 'Looking Towards the 6G Era - What we may expect, and why', Aug. 2023

Here are top 5 videos viewed on our YouTube channel in the last year:

1. Beginners: What is Industrial IoT (IIoT), Feb.2019
2. Beginners: Radio Frequency, Band and Spectrum, July 2017
3. Beginners: Different Types of RAN Architectures - Distributed, Centralized & Cloud, July 2021
4. Beginners: Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), Sep. 2018
5. Beginners: MNO, MVNO, MVNA, MVNE: Different types of mobile operators, Apr. 2018

Let us know about your favourite post and/or video in the comments below.

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6G Global - Videos & Presentations from Mobile Korea 2023

5G Forum, South Korea organises Mobile Korea conference every year. Mobile Korea 2023 had two conferences within it, '6G Global', looking at 'Beyond Connectivity and New Possibilities', and '5G Vertical Summit', looking at 'Leading to Sustainable Society with 5G'.

Selected videos from Mobile Korea 2023 5G Vertical Summit are available here: https://t.co/zozmQ43s0v #Free5Gtraining #3G4G5G #MobileKorea #5GSummit #UAM #KUAM #ITS #AutonomousDriving #V2X #CV2X #Sidelink #NTN #PrivateNetworks #Healthcare #SmartCity #APIs pic.twitter.com/7Xrv8V1L4s

— Free 5G Training (@5Gtraining) December 4, 2023

I often complain about how organisations working in 6G often lack social networks skills, in this case, even the website is not very user friendly and doesn't contain a lot of details. Full marks for uploading the videos on YouTube though.

Anyway, here are the videos and presentations that were shared from the summit:

• Opening + Keynote Session - Moderator : LEE, HyeonWoo, DanKook University
• Standardization and Technical Trend for 6G, SungHyun CHOI, Samsung Research (video, presentation)
• Session 1 : 6G Global Trend - Moderator : JaeHoon CHUNG, LG Electronics Inc.
• Thoughts on standardization and Industry priorities to ensure timely market readiness for 6G, Sari NIELSEN, Nokia (video, presentation)
• On the convergence route for 6G, Wen TONG, Huawei (video, presentation)
• The Path from 5G to 6G: Vision and Technology, Edward G. TIEDMANN, Qualcomm Technologies  (video, presentation)
• Shaping 6G – Technology and Services, Bo HAGERMAN, Ericsson (video, presentation)
• Government Session
• Keynote : Korea's 6G R&D Promotion Strategy, KyeongRae CHO, Ministry of Science and ICT (video, presentation)
• Session 2 : 6G Global Collaboration - Moderator : Juho LEE, Samsung Electronics
• 6G R&D and promotion in Japan, Kotaro KUWAZU, B5GPC (video, presentation)
• Technology evolution toward beyond 5G and 6G, Charlie ZHANG, Samsung Research (video, presentation)
• AI-Native RAN and Air Interface : Promises and Challenges, Balaji Raghothaman, Keysight (video, presentation)
• Enabling 6G Research through Rapid Prototyping and Test LEE, SeYong, (NI) (video, presentation)
• Global Collaborative R&D Activities for Advanced Radio Technologies, JaeHoon CHUNG, LG Electronics (video, presentation)
• International research collaboration – key to a sustainable 6G road, Thomas HAUSTEIN, Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute (video, presentation)
• 6G as Cellular Network 2.0: A Networked Computing Perspective, KyungHan LEE, Seoul National University (video, presentation)
• Towards a Sustainable 6G, Marcos KATZ, University of Oulu (video, presentation)
• Pannel Discussion : Roles of Public Domain in 6G R&D - Moderator : HyeonWoo LEE, DanKook University
• 6G R&D Direction and Introduction of IITP, SungHo CHOI, IITP (video, presentation)
• NICT's role for Beyond 5G R&D, Iwao HOSAKO, NICT (video, presentation)
• 6G Smart Networks and Services JU: R&D for 6G in Europe, Alexandros KALOXYLOS, 6GIA (video, presentation)
• Taiwan 6G Vision and R&D Activities SHIEH, Shin-Lin, ITRI (video, presentation)
• Session 3 : 6G Global Mega Project - Moderator: YoungJo KO, ETRI
• Sub-THz band wireless transmission and access technology for 6G Tbps data rate, JuYong LEE, KAIST (video, presentation)
• The post Shannon Era: Towards Semantic, Goal-Oriented and Reconfigurable Intelligent Environments aided 6G communications, Emilio CALVANESE STRINATI, CEA Leti (video, presentation)
• Demonstration of 1.4 Tbits wireless transmission using OAM multiplexing technology in the sub-THz band, DooHwan LEE, NTT Corporation (video, presentation)
• Latest 6G research progress in China, Zhiqin WANG, CAICT (video, presentation)

If there are no links in video/presentation than it hasn't been shared.

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