The first version of the 5G New Radio specifications focused on delivering enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) which operators around the world have run with, building out non-standalone networks using a variety of spectrum types, including millimeter wave frequencies. The next phase of 5G, as spelled out in Rel. 16, was finalized on July 3 during a remote meeting of standards-setting body 3GPP.
Rel. 16 comes with a number of a key enhancements meant to provide better coverage, mobility and reliability while extending NR to new spectrum bands and better supporting 5G for vertical industries.
