The introduction of 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) is poised to revolutionise the Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial applications across the UK and Europe. This simplified version of 5G focuses on providing high-speed, reliable connectivity for devices that don’t need the full bandwidth or complexity of traditional 5G. Instead, it prioritises low-cost, low-power, and efficient solutions for applications ranging from smart sensors to industrial automation.
What is 5G RedCap?
5G RedCap is a version of 5G that simplifies certain aspects of the technology, reducing the power consumption and complexity required for many IoT devices. While full 5G networks are designed to provide ultra-fast speeds for smartphones and data-hungry applications, RedCap targets lower-cost devices that don’t need massive data throughput. This makes it ideal for IoT devices, smart sensors, wearables, and other connected products in industrial settings.
By focusing on reducing the complexity and costs associated with full 5G, RedCap provides power-efficient solutions for industries like smart cities, automotive, logistics, and healthcare, where real-time data transmission and reliable connectivity are critical, but not at the speed required for regular 5G use.
5G RedCap in the UK and Europe
A number of leading mobile networks in the UK and Europe are either trialling or planning to roll out 5G RedCap technology. These networks include Vodafone, BT (via EE), and Three, with additional interest from operators across Europe, such as Deutsche Telekom in Germany.
UK Networks:
- BT Group (EE): BT has partnered with Nokia and MediaTek to trial 5G RedCap technology, focusing on providing simplified 5G solutions for businesses and IoT applications. This trial aims to make IoT and industrial devices more affordable by reducing the complexity of 5G networksISPreview UK. BT plans to roll out this technology as part of its 5G expansion, which will support a variety of industries, including smart cities, agriculture, and energy managementISPreview UK.
- Vodafone UK: Vodafone is also working with Ericsson and Qualcomm to integrate RedCap into its 5G network, aiming to deliver a cost-effective 5G solution for devices that don’t require high data speeds but need reliable connectivityISPreview UK. Vodafone’s RedCap solution will benefit sectors like logistics, automotive, and healthcareISPreview UK.
- Three UK: As part of its ongoing 5G development, Three UK is testing RedCap in collaboration with its partners, focusing on IoT and enterprise applications. This will help extend 5G capabilities to industries requiring more scalable and power-efficient solutionsISPreview UK.
European Networks:
Across Europe, operators are also pushing forward with RedCap technology. For example:
- Deutsche Telekom in Germany is trialling 5G RedCap for industrial IoT applications, where devices need reliable but lower bandwidth connectivityISPreview UK.
- Orange has been exploring RedCap solutions in France and Spain, aiming to deliver the benefits of 5G to industries like agriculture and automotive, without the need for expensive, high-bandwidth networksISPreview UK.
Applications of 5G RedCap
The key advantage of 5G RedCap is its ability to meet the specific needs of applications that don’t require the full capabilities of standard 5G. Some of the primary areas of application include:
- Smart sensors and monitoring: Devices used in industrial monitoring, environmental sensing, and smart cities can use 5G RedCap to transmit data without consuming too much power or requiring extensive data throughput.
- Wearables and healthcare devices: Devices like fitness trackers and medical monitoring equipment can benefit from 5G RedCap’s power efficiency while still ensuring real-time data delivery.
- Agriculture: RedCap can enable cost-effective, low-power solutions for connected farming devices such as soil sensors and irrigation systems.
- Logistics and automotive: In sectors like logistics and automotive, RedCap will support vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, fleet management, and connected car solutions, where constant, reliable connectivity is essential.
The Role of 5G RedCap Routers
As 5G RedCap technology develops, routers like the Teltonika RUT271 are becoming essential for connecting IoT devices to RedCap-enabled networks. The RUT271 is capable of using both 4G LTE and 5G RedCap, offering flexibility for businesses that want to future-proof their IoT networks while still maintaining compatibility with existing 4G infrastructure. This makes it an ideal solution for industries looking to deploy low-cost, low-power IoT devices in remote areas where reliable connectivity is crucial
Timelines for RedCap Rollout
The timeline for the commercial rollout of 5G RedCap in the UK and Europe is moving quickly, with major players like Vodafone, BT, and Three expected to integrate RedCap into their networks by 2025
ISPreview UK. As these networks expand, RedCap will play a key role in enabling the next generation of connected devices across a wide range of industries, providing a scalable and efficient 5G solution for IoT applications.
Conclusion
The upcoming rollout of 5G RedCap will provide a critical technological advancement for industries that rely on IoT and connected devices. With key UK and European networks like Vodafone, BT, and Three already trialling or preparing for the integration of RedCap, businesses can expect more affordable, efficient, and scalable solutions for their connectivity needs. For businesses looking to invest in future-proof IoT solutions, 5G RedCap routers like the Teltonika RUT271 will be key to ensuring seamless integration across 5G and LTE networks.
The next few years will be pivotal in shaping the future of 5G technology, with 5G RedCap expected to drive the next wave of digital transformation across industries in the UK and Europe.