5G • 5G-Advanced (Rel-18)
eRedCap Wearables Profile
Consumer Smartwatch and Medical Patch Device Tier
Ultra-compact profile enabling direct cellular connectivity in smartwatches and wearable medical patches without relying on tethered smartphones.
Technical Explanation
Smartwatches require direct cellular independence for fitness tracking and emergency voice calls, but small batteries (300 mAh) and compact wrist enclosures restrict antenna space. Rel-18 eRedCap provides 1-Rx antenna support and 5 MHz bandwidth, allowing smartwatch modems to achieve multi-day battery life while supporting high-definition VoNR voice calls.
Key Functions
- Enables standalone cellular independence for consumer smartwatches and fitness bands
- Supports high-definition Voice over NR (VoNR) emergency and consumer calls
- Reduces thermal dissipation against user skin during cellular voice connections
- Fits inside compact, water-resistant wearable housings without bulky external antennas
Specifications
3GPP TS 38.306 (Rel-18)
Interfaces
Uu (VoNR/Data)
Related 5G Concepts
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