Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC24) was another exciting event, during which the communications industry united to ponder the future and unveil a slew of new products and solutions. Throughout the week, Keysight showcased the latest in wireless communications and innovations in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) and 6G research with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
With last year’s technology landscape dominated by AI, many conversations at MCW24 focused on how this intelligence will improve the growth and direction of mobile communications. Another topic that continues to build interest is understanding the power and potential of quantum computing. Discussions around Open Radio Access Networks (ORAN) were popular, reflecting the ongoing development of the ecosystem. From a Keysight perspective, the hottest topic in Barcelona was NTNs, with the majority of customer meetings centered around space networks.
NTN in the Spotlight
As mobile operators strive to deliver 5G connectivity, they are looking to integrate NTNs to help bridge gaps in terrestrial networks. In addition to supplementing coverage, they can serve as a network failsafe during outages or downtime. It’s clear that integrating NTNs is changing how we connect and secure the world.
At MWC24, Keysight showcased its collaboration with Qualcomm and Ericsson on breakthrough NTNs. The demo illustrated seamless mobility between terrestrial and NTNs and satellite-to-satellite handovers. To learn more, check out this video here.
These are just a few examples from MWC that demonstrate Keysight’s commitment to accelerating NTN innovations. We’re working with our customers and partners to reduce risk and speed satellite development on the ground to ensure optimal performance in space. The GTIGroup awards validated this, recognizing the Keysight 3GPP NTN Testbed as an innovative breakthrough in mobile technology.
Over the week, Keysight’s trusted air interface measurement solutions, Nemo Handy and Nemo Outdoor, sparked some buzz. These tools help verify the network coverage and performance of unmodified 3GPP over a satellite connection. You can explore how these solutions enable testing systems that utilize LTE technology for satellite connection and terrestrial networks here.
NTN Partnerships
During MWC24, Keysight was named a Test Partner for the Deutsche Telekom Satellite NB-IoT Early Adopter Program. The initiative aims to accelerate the development and deployment of IoT solutions over satellite networks. As part of this, Keysight will provide an end-to-end narrowband IoT NTN testbed, enabling designers and developers to validate designs for solutions using 3GPP Release 17 standards. Our solutions are recognized across the globe for evaluating the dynamic capabilities of NB-NTN devices and systems. Dive into the details here.
The Sustainable Future
MWC24 also offered numerous thought-provoking sessions, including “Prioritizing Purpose Driven Networks,” in which Keysight’s Giampaolo Tardioli participated. The conversation centered around why sustainability and efficiency must drive the future of wireless innovation. One important takeaway is that there was consensus that failing to embrace these directives is no longer optional.
Gadgets, Gadgets, Gadgets
As always, there was a deluge of gadgets unveiled at MWC24. One that caught my attention was a demo of a bendable phone that I never realized I needed! I’m intrigued to see if it moves from a concept to a commercialized product in the next few years.
The Connected Future
MWC24 provided a preview into the future of wireless connectivity, and attendees gained insights into the disruptive innovation and emerging trends reshaping the industry. I look forward to connecting with our customers and partners at MWC25 as we continue to strive to push the boundaries of wireless innovations.
NTN & Satellite Communications
And for those who missed MCW24, Keysight will be at SATELLITE 2024 in Washington, D.C. We will demonstrate how to deliver ubiquitous satellite communication with Keysight’s 5G NTN solution portfolio. If you want to secure a demo with the team, please register here.