As the global telecoms industry steadily moves from 4G to 5G, a new technology, enhanced Reduced Capability, known as eRedCap, is emerging as the backbone of the next wave of long-lasting Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Sony Semiconductor Israel has outlined a long-term vision that places eRedCap at the heart of future 5G IoT connectivity, particularly for its globally deployed Altair devices.
With artificial intelligence accelerating across industries and mobile operators preparing to phase out legacy networks, the shift to 5G is transforming what large-scale IoT deployments can achieve. Traditional Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) technologies will continue to serve use cases such as gas and water metering, asset tracking, and safety infrastructure, applications that require minimal data transmission and are expected to remain in the field for decades.
However, a growing class of applications now demands more. Industrial automation, advanced safety systems, wearables, and emerging AI-powered consumer devices increasingly require higher data speeds, voice support, and richer data streams. These needs are driving adoption toward eRedCap, which is designed to deliver real-time communication with low power consumption and improved throughput.
According to Sony Semiconductor Israel’s CEO, Nohik Semel, eRedCap represents the natural evolution of IoT connectivity. He explained that it strikes a balance between performance and efficiency, making it ideal for devices expected to operate reliably for 10 to 20 years. For manufacturers planning beyond the lifespan of 4G, eRedCap offers a clear pathway into a fully 5G-enabled ecosystem.
A unified 5G environment also brings significant benefits for network operators. Today, many are forced to maintain older 2G and 4G networks because millions of legacy devices are still active, tying up valuable spectrum. eRedCap enables a gradual transition of IoT devices to 5G, allowing operators to streamline networks, free up spectrum, and eventually retire 4G infrastructure altogether. Built on 3GPP Release 18, it bridges the gap between high-end 5G New Radio and narrowband IoT.
Compared to conventional LPWA solutions, eRedCap supports data-intensive applications without the complexity and cost associated with full 5G implementations. At the same time, it remains optimized for battery-powered devices designed for long operational life.
As the ecosystem matures, Half-Duplex Frequency Division Duplex (HD-FDD) is gaining traction as the preferred deployment model for eRedCap devices. Its simpler radio design, lower cost, and improved power efficiency make it well-suited for the next generation of affordable, durable 5G IoT solutions.
Together, eRedCap and HD-FDD are shaping a future where IoT devices are not only smarter and faster, but also built to last in a fully 5G world.
