Overview of the Release and Timeline
3GPP’s Release 18 marks the start of the 5GAdvanced series. This update builds on earlier versions by introducing key refinements and new features. The final specification (functional freeze) for Release 18 occurred in mid2024. In early 2025, Finland’s main network operator began the first commercial deployment of this technology. So, now let us look into Finland’s Deployment of 5G-Advanced along with User-friendly LTE RF drive test tools in telecom & Cellular RF drive test equipment and User-friendly Wireless Survey Software Tools & Wifi site survey software tools in detail.
Speed and Throughput
These rates offer sufficient bandwidth for demanding applications like extended reality, largescale media delivery, and ultraresponsive services.
Location and Timing Improvements
Release 18 introduces new positioning methods that work independent of satellite navigation. The system supports carrier‑phase positioning, which improves location accuracy significantly. These enhancements benefit areas where GNSS signals are weak, and where dense network-based positioning is critical—industrial sites, transportation hubs, and urban clusters.
IoT Device Support (RedCap and eRedCap)
The update enhances the support for low‑power IoT devices by extending and refining Reduced Capability (RedCap) specifications. It includes provisions for devices with narrow bandwidth and extended battery life. These new RedCap variants reduce device complexity and cost, targeting scenarios like health monitors, utility meters, asset tracking, and industrial sensors.
Integration with Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)
Release 18 expands 5G to support communication through non‑terrestrial infrastructure like satellites and drones. This allows network access in remote or disrupted regions. The NTN structures may use low-earth orbit and high‑altitude platforms, requiring adaptation for mobility, Doppler shifts, and signal delay. Finland’s deployment prepares the network for such integrations, improving reach.
Network Efficiency Enhancements
The Release includes several measures for operational improvement:
- Machine learning and AI optimize network functions like beamforming, spectrum use, and resource management
- Coverage and uplink performance improve at cell edges and high‑mobility scenarios like trains
- Energy-saving features, including more efficient sleep modes and wake‑up signaling, reduce power use across network hardware
Real-time Streaming at Dense Events
The trial used a standalone network setup; one device with L4S managed uninterrupted playback under heavy congestion, while another device without it failed. This shows how Release 18 can support realtime content even in crowded environments.
National Coverage and Infrastructure Strategy
Finland’s mobile network coverage is strong—72% of populated areas have 5G, exceeding the EU average That performance reflects early adoption of pioneer spectrum (700 MHz, 3.6 GHz, 26 GHz) and steady infrastructure expansion.
The operator in Finland signed a four‑year extension agreement with a major vendor to deploy hardware and software solutions for 5G‑Advanced, including massive MIMO, self‑organizing networks, cloud native systems, and automated operations
Key Capabilities of Release 18
Feature
Description
Higher Data Speeds
Up to 10 Gbps peak download, enabling XR, 4K/8K video, and high‑density media.
Precision Positioning
Network‑based methods reducing GNSS dependency.
IoT Support
Low‑power RedCap devices; broader industrial and consumer use.
NTN Integration
Support for satellite and drone‑based connectivity.
Efficiency
Energy reductions, improved uplink, AI‑based resource management.
Low‑latency Streaming
Reliable content delivery in crowded scenarios.
Context and Future Outlook
Release 18 is the technical foundation for more advanced systems. Release 19, scheduled to complete by late 2025, will further improve performance, network slicing, MIMO scalability, and explore new frequency usage
Finland’s deployment accelerates readiness for Release 19 and sets the stage for 6G. Concepts like integrated sensing, edge‑AI, and deeper NTN integration will carry forward
About RantCell
RantCell provides a cloud-based network testing platform designed for 4G and 5G networks. The solution eliminates the complexity of dedicated test equipment by enabling network measurements directly from standard Android smartphones. Key features include automated drive and walk testing, voice and data quality analysis, QoE and KPI reporting, spectrum band locking, and API integration. Test data is collected, uploaded, and analyzed in real time on a web dashboard, allowing large-scale monitoring across multiple locations simultaneously. Also read similar articles from here.
