Next Generation Mobile Networks: Advancements and Applications

Next Generation Mobile Networks are poised to revolutionize the way we communicate and access information on-the-go. With the increasing demand for faster and more reliable connectivity, mobile network operators are racing to deploy 5G networks that can support speeds of up to 20 Gbps.

These next-generation networks will enable a wide range of applications, including ultra-high-definition video streaming and remote healthcare services. For example, with 5G, patients can remotely consult with doctors and receive real-time medical attention.

One of the key drivers of 5G adoption is the need for faster data transfer rates to support the growing number of IoT devices. According to estimates, there will be over 50 billion connected devices by 2025, putting a strain on traditional networks.

The benefits of 5G will be felt across various industries, including entertainment, education, and healthcare. For instance, 5G will enable seamless streaming of 4K and 8K videos, making it possible to enjoy high-quality content on-the-go.

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Next Generation Mobile Networks are built on a Service-Based Architecture, which replaces the traditional referenced-based architecture of the Evolved Packet Core used in 4G. This new architecture breaks up the core functionality of the network into interconnected network functions (NFs), typically implemented as Cloud-Native Network Functions.

The 5G Service-Based architecture allows mobile operators to utilize different infrastructure vendors for different functions, and the flexibility to scale each function independently as needed. Network functions like the Authentication Server Function (AUSF) and the Policy Control Function (PCF) are examples of this architecture in action.

Here are some key network functions in the 5G Service-Based architecture:

The 5G Service-Based architecture also includes network entities for roaming and inter-network connectivity, such as the Security Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP) and the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF).

The fronthaul network is a crucial part of 5G architecture, focusing on wireline sections between the Remote Radio Head (RRH) and Base Band Unit (BBU).

The IEEE 1914.1 standard divides the connection between the RRU and BBU into two key sections.

NGFI-I (Next Generation Fronthaul Interface) handles the connection between the Radio Unit (RU) and the Distributor Unit (DU), while NGFI-II handles the connection between the DU and the Central Unit (CU).

NGFI-I and NGFI-II have defined performance values to ensure different traffic types can be carried, as defined by the ITU.

The IEEE 1914.3 standard is creating a new Ethernet frame format that can carry IQ data more efficiently, depending on the functional split utilized.

This new format is based on the 3GPP definition of functional splits, which is crucial for optimizing network performance.

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The Service-Based Architecture is a game-changer for network design. It's a new approach that breaks down the core functionality of the network into interconnected network functions (NFs).

These NFs are typically implemented as Cloud-Native Network Functions, which allows for greater flexibility and scalability. The Network Repository Function (NRF) maintains the state of these NFs, and they communicate with each other using the Service Communication Proxy (SCP).

The interfaces between the elements all utilize RESTful APIs, making it easier to integrate different infrastructure vendors for different functions. This flexibility to scale each function independently as needed is a major advantage of the Service-Based Architecture.

Here's a list of the 5G Network Functions:

The Service-Based Architecture is designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing mobile operators to use different infrastructure vendors for different functions.

In July 2016, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) freed up vast amounts of bandwidth in underused high-band spectrum for 5G.

The Spectrum Frontiers Proposal (SFP) doubled the amount of millimeter-wave unlicensed spectrum to 14 GHz and created four times the amount of flexible, mobile-use spectrum the FCC had licensed to date.

European Union lawmakers agreed to open up the 3.6 and 26 GHz bands by 2020.

As of March 2019, 52 countries, territories, and regions are considering introducing certain spectrum bands for terrestrial 5G services.

Qualcomm has proposed working on unlicensed spectrum specifications known as 5G NR-U, targeting 3GPP Release 16.

In December 2018, 3GPP began working on unlicensed spectrum specifications, which could enable more flexible and efficient use of spectrum.

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Massive MIMO is a technology that's revolutionizing the way we think about network architecture. It's a type of multiple-input and multiple-output system that uses multiple antennas at the transmitter and receiver ends of a wireless communication system.

By using spatial multiplexing, Massive MIMO can increase the number of transmission layers, thereby boosting system capacity. This means that more devices can be connected to the network without sacrificing speed or performance.

In fact, Massive MIMO antennas can increase sector throughput and capacity density using large numbers of antennas. This includes Single User MIMO and Multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO), where each antenna is individually-controlled and may embed radio transceiver components.

Here are some key benefits of Massive MIMO:

Massive MIMO is an essential component of next-gen networks, which are designed to support the growing demand for IoT connectivity and smart city applications. By leveraging the power of Massive MIMO, network architects can create high-performance networks that support a wide range of use cases, from autonomous driving to virtual reality.

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In 5G, the ideal "air latency" is of the order of 8 to 12 milliseconds.

Verizon reported the latency on its 5G early deployment is 30 ms, which is significantly higher than the ideal range.

Edge Servers close to the towers can probably reduce latency to between 10 and 15 milliseconds.

Latency is much higher during handovers, ranging from 50 to 500 milliseconds depending on the type of handover.

Reducing handover interruption time is an ongoing area of research and development.

Security, Privacy, and Resilience are top priorities in Next Generation Mobile Networks. The shift towards cloud-native software, virtualized infrastructures, and open-source components has significantly enlarged the threat landscape, making networks more vulnerable to sophisticated cyber-attacks.

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in mobile networks presents both novel opportunities and vulnerabilities. AI's dual role as a tool for network optimization and a potential attack vector highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of the mobile network security landscape.

For more insights, see: Mobile Security

Cyber threats to Beyond 5G (B5G)/6G networks are a major concern. Emerging technical enablers for B5G/6G security and privacy, such as AI/ML for network security, are being explored to address these threats.

Physical layer security is another area of focus. Resilience strategies for next-generation mobile networks, including trust mechanisms and root-of-trust in mobile networks, are essential to ensure the reliability and integrity of mobile networks.

Here are some key areas of focus for security, privacy, and resilience in Next Generation Mobile Networks:

To overcome the challenges associated with the configuration of CN standardized for 5G, scalability and robustness are critical roles that future mobile networks should play. This includes addressing the influx of UE and providing 24/7 services.

5G technology is being deployed in various application areas to provide faster and more reliable connections.

The ITU-R has defined three main application areas for 5G: Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC), and Massive Machine Type Communications (mMTC).

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Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) is already being used in 2020, offering faster connections, higher throughput, and more capacity, which will benefit areas with high traffic such as stadiums and cities.

Ultra Reliable Low Latency Communications (URLLC) is expected to be used for mission-critical applications that require uninterrupted and robust data exchange.

Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC) will be used to connect a large number of devices, including some of the 50 billion connected IoT devices, with most using Wi-Fi for connectivity.

Drones will use 4G or 5G to aid in disaster recovery efforts, providing real-time data for emergency responders.

Most cars will have a 4G or 5G cellular connection for various services, but autonomous cars do not require 5G as they can operate without a network connection.

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5G NR (New Radio) is the global standard for 3GPP 5G networks, developed in 2015 and first specified in 2017. The first large-scale commercial launch of 5G NR occurred in 2018, with many operators deploying 5G NR networks and handset manufacturers developing 5G NR enabled handsets since 2019.

Additional reading: List of 5G NR Networks

5G-Advanced, also known as 5.5G, is an evolutionary upgrade to 5G technology, defined under the 3GPP Release 18 standard. It aims to optimize performance, enhance spectral efficiency, and support advanced applications such as extended reality (XR) and massive machine-type communication (mMTC).

The 5G-Advanced standard includes extended support for non-terrestrial networks (NTN), enabling communication via satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles. This facilitates connectivity in remote or hard-to-reach areas.

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5G NR is the de facto air interface developed for 5G networks, and it's the global standard for 3GPP 5G networks.

The study of 5G NR within 3GPP started in 2015, and the first specification was made available by the end of 2017. This marked a significant milestone in the development of 5G technology.

5G NR has been widely adopted, with many operators deploying 5G NR networks and handset manufacturers developing 5G NR enabled handsets since 2019.

The first large-scale commercial launch of 5G NR occurred at the end of 2018, showing that the industry was eager to implement this new technology.

5G-Advanced is an evolutionary upgrade to 5G technology, defined under the 3GPP Release 18 standard. It serves as a transitional phase between 5G and future 6G networks, focusing on performance optimization, enhanced spectral efficiency, energy efficiency, and expanded functionality.

This technology supports advanced applications such as extended reality (XR), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), and ultra-low latency for critical services, like autonomous vehicles. It also enables smarter resource allocation and predictive maintenance by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into network operations.

5G-Advanced aims to minimize service interruption times during handovers to nearly zero, ensuring robust connectivity for devices in motion, such as high-speed trains and autonomous vehicles. It expands the capabilities of RedCap (Reduced Capability) devices, enabling their efficient use in scenarios that require low complexity and power consumption.

The standard includes extended support for non-terrestrial networks (NTN), enabling communication via satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles, which facilitates connectivity in remote or hard-to-reach areas.

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The 5G device landscape has expanded rapidly, with a wide range of devices available in the market. In March 2019, 23 vendors confirmed the availability of 5G devices, including 33 different devices with regional variants.

By October 2019, the number of announced 5G devices had risen to 129, across 15 form factors, from 56 vendors. This is a significant increase in just a few months.

The first-ever all-5G smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G, was released on March 4, 2019. It was more expensive than the 4G Samsung Galaxy S10e.

The Nokia 8.3 5G, announced on March 19, 2020, is claimed to have a wider range of 5G compatibility than any other phone released to that time, supporting all 5G bands from 600 MHz to 3.8 GHz.

Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access is a proposed technique for future cellular systems that involves the allocation of power.

NOMA is designed to improve spectral efficiency and increase the number of users that can be supported by a single cell.

This technique is particularly useful for future cellular systems because it can handle a large number of users with varying data rates.

NOMA allows for the allocation of power to each user, which helps to improve the overall performance of the system.

The allocation of power in NOMA is done in a non-orthogonal manner, meaning that the signals of different users are not separated by time or frequency.

By the mid-to-late 2020s, standalone private 5G networks are expected to become the predominant wireless communications medium to support the digitization and automation of manufacturing and process industries.

The first country to adopt 5G on a large scale was South Korea, in April 2019, with all carriers using Samsung, Ericsson, and Nokia base stations and equipment, except for LG U Plus, who also used Huawei equipment. Samsung was the largest supplier for 5G base stations in South Korea at launch.

As of April 2019, 224 operators in 88 countries were deploying 5G networks or had announced service launches, a significant increase from 192 operators in 81 countries in November 2018.

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The range of 5G depends on several factors, including transmit power, frequency, and interference.

For example, mmWave frequencies have a lower range compared to mid-band frequencies, which in turn have a lower range than low-band frequencies.

In fact, mmWave frequencies, such as band n258, will have a shorter range than mid-band frequencies, like band n78.

Mid-band frequencies, on the other hand, will have a shorter range than low-band frequencies, like band n5.

Cellular service providers use simulators and drive tests to precisely measure 5G performance and determine its actual range in different environments.

Fixed wireless connections are an alternative to traditional fixed-line broadband in some areas. They utilize 5G technology to deliver high-speed internet to homes and businesses without the need for extensive physical infrastructure.

This approach is particularly beneficial in rural or underserved areas where traditional broadband deployment is too expensive or logistically challenging. In these areas, fixed wireless access (FWA) can outperform older fixed-line technologies like ADSL and VDSL in terms of speed and latency.

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FWA is suitable for bandwidth-intensive applications like streaming, gaming, and remote work. It can deliver high-speed internet without the need for extensive physical infrastructure, making it a cost-effective solution for rural or underserved areas.

Some benefits of fixed wireless connections include:

Small cells are low-powered cellular radio access nodes that operate in licensed and unlicensed spectrum, with a range of 10 meters to a few kilometers.

They're critical to 5G networks because 5G's radio waves can't travel long distances, due to 5G's higher frequencies.

Small cells are poised to be an integral part of future 5G and private LTE networks that will integrate layers of small and large cells in advanced HetNets.

In fact, NWS’ small cell network and distributed antenna systems (DAS) solutions enable mobile operators to increase network capacity, extend service coverage, and expand revenue opportunities.

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Deployment of 5G networks is a significant step towards the digitization and automation of manufacturing and process industries.

By the mid-to-late 2020s, standalone private 5G networks are expected to become the predominant wireless communications medium.

Initial 5G NR launches depended on pairing with existing LTE infrastructure in non-standalone (NSA) mode.

The first country to adopt 5G on a large scale was South Korea, in April 2019.

South Korea's 5G network launch saw all carriers use Samsung, Ericsson, and Nokia base stations and equipment, except for LG U Plus, who also used Huawei equipment.

Samsung was the largest supplier for 5G base stations in South Korea at launch, having shipped 53,000 base stations.

The first fairly substantial deployments were in April 2019, with SK Telecom claiming 38,000 base stations, KT Corporation 30,000, and LG U Plus 18,000.

These base stations are using 3.5 GHz (sub-6) spectrum in non-standalone (NSA) mode.

Tested speeds were from 193 to 430 Mbit/s down.

T-Mobile US was the first company in the world to launch a commercially available 5G NR Standalone network.

Nine companies sell 5G radio hardware and 5G systems for carriers: Altiostar, Cisco Systems, Datang Telecom/Fiberhome, Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia, Qualcomm, Samsung, and ZTE.

As of 2023, Huawei is the leading 5G equipment manufacturer and has the greatest market share of 5G equipment, having built approximately 70% of worldwide 5G base stations.

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Next generation mobile networks are being shaped by a range of exciting new technologies. Machine learning will dramatically change how networks run, doing more than just predict when parts need fixing, it will also tailor user experiences.

These technologies promise smarter, stronger networks. Edge computing will back this up, processing data near to users, which means less delay, vital for apps that need real-time interaction such as self-driving cars and smart cities.

Some of the key features of future networks include ultra-low latency of less than a millisecond, crucial for applications like autonomous driving and virtual reality, allowing for smooth, immediate interactions.

Network slicing is changing the game, providing us with the flexibility to offer personalized networks over the same structure. This allows for customized virtual networks, ensuring the best use of resources for a range of apps, from the Internet of Things to urgent communications.

Here are some of the key technologies that will shape the future of mobile networks:

VoNR (Vo5G) is the technology that allows voice calls to be carried over the 5G network using the same packet-switched infrastructure as other IP-based services. This is similar to how Voice over LTE (VoLTE) enables voice calls on 4G networks.

To function, VoNR (Vo5G) requires a 5G standalone (SA) network. This means that the 5G network must be designed to support voice calls natively, unlike traditional circuit-switched technology.

5G networks, like 4G networks, do not natively support voice calls. Instead, voice communication is transmitted over the IP network, similar to IPTV services.

The first large-scale commercial launch of 5G NR, which enables VoNR (Vo5G), occurred at the end of 2018. Since then, many operators have deployed 5G NR networks and handset manufacturers have developed 5G NR enabled handsets.

Here's a brief overview of the key differences between VoNR (Vo5G) and traditional circuit-switched technology:

VoNR (Vo5G) is an essential component of 5G networks, enabling voice calls to be carried over the same infrastructure as other IP-based services. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we communicate and interact with each other.

Wireless video transmission for broadcast applications is becoming increasingly popular, and Sony is leading the charge. They've tested the possibility of using local 5G networks to replace traditional SDI cables in broadcast camcorders.

The 5G Broadcast tests started around 2020 in various locations, including Orkney, Bavaria, Austria, and Central Bohemia. These tests are based on FeMBMS, or Further evolved multimedia broadcast multicast service, which aims to serve an unlimited number of mobile or fixed devices with video and audio streams without consuming any data flow or requiring authentication in the network.

The goal of this technology is to revolutionize the way we broadcast video content. By using local 5G networks, broadcasters can transmit high-quality video and audio signals wirelessly, eliminating the need for cumbersome cables.

Here's a brief overview of the history of mobile telephony generations:

This new technology has the potential to transform the broadcasting industry, and it's exciting to think about the possibilities it will bring.

5G wireless power is a technology that transfers power wirelessly using extremely high frequency radio waves with wavelengths from one to ten millimeters, also known as mmWaves.

Researchers at Georgia Tech have demonstrated the ability to capture up to 6μW of power from 5G signals at a distance of 180m.

This technology adheres to technical standards set by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project, the International Telecommunication Union, and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Internet of things devices could benefit from 5G wireless power technology due to their low power requirements that are within the range of what has been achieved using 5G power capture.

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Edge computing is delivered by computing servers closer to the user, reducing latency and data traffic congestion.

This approach can improve service availability, making it ideal for applications that require real-time interaction, such as self-driving cars and smart cities.

Edge computing will process data near to users, minimizing delay, which is essential for apps that demand instant feedback.

By reducing latency, edge computing can provide a seamless experience for users, making it a crucial component of next-generation networks.

Edge computing will work in tandem with other technologies, like 6G networks, to create a faster, smarter, and safer mobile network ecosystem.

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Network slicing is a game-changer for future networks, allowing for the creation of multiple virtual networks on a single physical infrastructure.

This innovative feature maximizes the efficiency of network resources, catering to diverse requirements simultaneously. A network slice dedicated to autonomous vehicles demands ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC), while a separate slice for a smart home network prioritizes massive machine-type communications (mMTC).

The Internet of Things (IoT), web of connected autonomous vehicles, and remotely controlled robots are just a few examples of the new pool of applications that network slicing can efficiently serve.

Network slicing opens up avenues for tailored services that can meet specific demands of various sectors, from healthcare to entertainment, and beyond.

Future networks are evolving to provide incredibly fast speeds, with data sharing happening instantly due to terabit speeds. This will enable massive IoT integrations, connecting us with every aspect of a technology-driven life.

One major development is ultra-low latency of less than a millisecond, crucial for applications like autonomous driving and virtual reality. This allows for smooth, immediate interactions.

For another approach, see: T-mobile's 5g Network Sets New Record-breaking Speeds in Field Tests

Network slicing is changing the game, providing us with the flexibility to offer personalized networks over the same infrastructure. This flexibility will maximize the efficiency of network resources and open up avenues for tailored services.

We can expect to see evolved mobile broadband, captivating users with unparalleled immersive experiences powered by amazing technologies like augmented reality and virtual reality.

Here are some key features of future networks:

These technologies will enable us to move towards a greener world, with networks using much less energy. They will also support the growth of smart cities and self-driving cars, connecting everything and making real-time data analysis possible.

New 6G networks are expected to come around 2030, promising speeds up to 100 times faster than 5G, touching 1 terabyte per second.

We'll see a more reliable connection and almost no delay, thanks to the use of higher frequency bands. This will be a game-changer for our mobile internet and fuel cool apps in Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and the Internet of Things.

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Networks will cover every place in the world, thanks to the use of satellites. This will guarantee worldwide connectivity, even to the most remote places.

We'll also see a huge growth in virtual reality and augmented reality, providing better immersive experiences with minimal delay. This will be powered by amazing technologies, like augmented reality and virtual reality.

Our networks will use much less energy, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly. This is crucial for our planet's future, and we're committed to making a positive impact.

By 2030, we'll see the birth of 6G, and it's going to be a game-changer, promising speeds 100 times faster than 5G. This upgrade will boost mobile internet and fuel cool apps in Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and the Internet of Things.

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SoftBank is working on using GPUs as accelerators to resolve the trade-off between flexibility and performance.

They've been exploring this concept since 2019 and have conducted various verification tests to measure its effectiveness. These tests include performance verification as an accelerator, impact verification with MEC/AI, and verification of the coexistence of vRAN and MEC/AI.

The results of these tests have been promising, with SoftBank confirming that the processing speed and power consumption of GPUs are low enough to meet the low-latency processing time required for 5G communication performance.

One notable experiment involved using "NVIDIA Maxine" to transmit low-resolution videos and perform "super-resolution" processing by AI on the MEC server, resulting in the generation of high-resolution videos with a smaller network bandwidth.

SoftBank has also successfully verified the End-to-End connection between vRAN and image processing MEC applications in actual machines, and achieved real-time person detection by AI on the same hardware configuration as vRAN.

In addition, SoftBank has established the "AI-on-5G Lab" research facility to verify and consider various solutions, including AI technology, for application to business areas in a virtualized infrastructure environment that combines 5G vRAN and MEC.

Their collaboration with NVIDIA has also led to the announcement of a next-generation platform for generative AI and 5G/6G, with plans to develop and verify functionalities that dynamically and efficiently allocate computer resources to meet the demands of various applications such as vRAN and AI.

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Next generation mobile networks, also known as 5G, have a much faster data transfer rate than its predecessor, 4G. This is thanks to the use of millimeter wave technology, which can reach speeds of up to 20 gigabits per second.

The latency of 5G is also significantly lower, with a round-trip time of just one millisecond. This is a huge improvement over 4G, which can take around 50 milliseconds to transmit data.

As a result, 5G networks are capable of supporting a vast number of devices, with estimates suggesting that they can handle up to 1 million devices per square kilometer. This makes them ideal for use in densely populated areas, such as cities.

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Channel coding has undergone significant changes in 5G NR compared to 4G. The primary change is the adoption of polar codes for control channels.

Polar codes have been chosen for control channels due to their improved error correction capabilities.

In contrast, LDPC (low-density parity check codes) are used for data channels. This is a deliberate design choice to optimize performance for different types of data.

For your interest: Mobile Network Codes in ITU Region 3xx (North America)

Frequency Range 1 (Low Band) is the most widely used frequency range for 5G, covering frequencies below 6 GHz. This range is also known as sub-6.

The maximum channel bandwidth defined for Frequency Range 1 (FR1) is 100 MHz, due to the scarcity of continuous spectrum in this crowded frequency range. This is a significant limitation compared to other frequency ranges.

The band most widely being used for 5G in this range is 3.3-4.2 GHz. This frequency range is also referred to as "mid-band" by some parties, although this term is not universally accepted.

In fact, the Korean carriers use the n78 band at 3.5 GHz for 5G in this range. This specific frequency band is widely adopted in the region.

Here's a quick summary of the key characteristics of Frequency Range 1 (FR1):

This frequency range offers a good balance between range and capacity, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.