5G • 5G-Advanced (Rel-18)
XR-Specific DRX
Periodic Extended Reality Discontinuous Reception
Power-saving protocol aligning terminal wake-up cycles exactly with video frame arrival rates (e.g. 60 Hz or 120 Hz), slashing headset battery consumption.
Technical Explanation
Standard connected-mode DRX timers do not match the quasi-periodic rhythm of video codecs, forcing AR/VR headsets to keep modem RF front-ends powered on continuously and causing thermal buildup on the user's face. Rel-18 XR-DRX synchronizes on-duration timers with video render cycles (e.g. 16.6 ms for 60 fps or 8.3 ms for 120 fps), putting modems to sleep between frame arrivals.
Key Functions
- Synchronizes terminal DRX sleep/wake cycles with video frame rendering rates (60/90/120 Hz)
- Reduces AR/VR headset cellular modem power consumption by 30% to 50%
- Prevents uncomfortable device heating against the user's head during long gaming sessions
- Maintains instant wake-up responsiveness when motion sensor telemetry bursts occur
Specifications
3GPP TR 38.835, TS 38.331 (Rel-18)
Interfaces
Uu (RRC / MAC)
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