Qualcomm and Ericsson have successfully completed a 3GPP Rel-15 spec compliant 5G NR call using a smartphone sized mobile test device. The over-the-air (OTA) call was performed using mm-Waves in the 39 GHz band of spectrum using NSA (Non-Standalone) mode. It utilized Ericsson’s commercial 5G NR Radio AIR 5331 and baseband products and a mobile test device with the Qualcomm Snapdragon X50 5G modem and RF subsystem in the Ericsson Lab in Kista, Sweden.
The lab data call is a continuation of the interoperability development testing (IODT) that was announced in 2017 which used Ericsson’s 5G NR pre-commercial base stations and Qualcomm Technologies’ 5G NR UE prototypes, and further shows the companies’ commitment and ability to achieve milestones that pave the way for commercial launches of 5G NR standard-compliant infrastructure, smartphones and other mobile devices. In addition, these early trials and milestones will enable global operators and OEMs to conduct tests in the field using their own networks and devices.
While mobilizing mm-Waves for the smartphone has been seen by many as a challenge, the recent demonstration validates that Qualcomm is on track to bring groundbreaking 5G mmWave experiences to consumers.
