Telstra and Ericsson say they have achieved Australia’s first implementation and validation of the next evolution of 5G technology, using Ericsson’s pre-commercial Reduced Capability(RedCap) software to make a Voice over New Radio (VoNR) call over Telstra’s 5G commercial network.

RedCap is a RAN software solution that enhances existing 5G use cases and enables new ones for devices such as smartwatches, other wearables and industry sensors. Building on the progress of 4G IoT technologies such as Cat-M and narrowband IoT, it delivers benefits including reduced device chipset cost, complexity and power consumption, while supporting higher data rates and key 5G service enablers delivered via 5G Standalone.

VoNR is the method by which voice calls can be handled over the 5G network, and was achieved by Telstra and Ericsson through the use of a MediaTek RedCap testing device. The voice call on frequency division duplex (FDD) was made in Box Hill, Victoria, and signals the start of ongoing testing and validation of this new 5G capability on Telstra’s network.

“With this Australia-first Voice over New Radio call using the Ericsson Reduced Capability software, Telstra is paving the way for new 5G use cases and enhancing uses across consumer, industrial and enterprise devices that don’t require the full range of 5G’s capabilities,” said Emilio Romeo, Head of Ericsson, Australia and New Zealand. “We’re pleased to be working with Telstra and MediaTek to make this Voice over New Radio call, and push the boundaries of technology by bringing greater 5G capabilities to the ecosystem.”

“This evolution of the latest 5G technology capability provides so many more opportunities for intelligent IoT devices to enhance our everyday lives,” added Nikos Katinakis, Telstra Group Executive for Global Networks & Technology. “Using less power and being capable of delivering our customers more value is something that Telstra is incredibly committed to.”

Photo Courtesy: MARHARYTA MARKO