World’s longest distance 5G phone call

The 5G Standalone (SA) call was achieved using Telstra’s 850 MHz spectrum and Ericsson’s latest commercial 5G SA network software and when deployed, will enable Telstra to expand its 5G footprint even further in regional areas. The extended range 5G call was enabled using Ericsson’s latest commercial 5G SA network software and the test was conducted using a commercially available smartphone.

Standalone 5G uses the 5G network for data transfer just like the existing non-standalone 5G, but also uses 5G for the signalling communication between device and base station. That communication happening over 5G means many more devices can communicate simultaneously, at higher speeds, and in many more complex ways than 4G can. 

Considered as the ultimate 5G, Standalone NR –  coupled with cloud-native 5G Core – will provide better support for all use cases and unlock the power of the next-generation mobile technology. Thanks to network evolution we’re entering a new era of ultra-fast connectivity, the most rapid response times ever, and a whole host of opportunities for new solutions and services.

Telstra is the first telco provider in Australia to enable Standalone 5G across their network, and one of the first in the world.

Nikos Katinakis, Telstra Group Executive, Networks & IT, says: ”This achievement is another example of Telstra’s drive to innovate for the benefit of all of its customers, particularly those in regional areas. Australia’s geography and demography present challenges to any network provider, but it is Telstra’s commitment to meet those challenges and bring its technology to all its customers that fuels such innovation. And it is that innovation, in partnership with Ericsson, that puts Telstra in a leadership position globally when it comes to 5G.”

Emilio Romeo, Head of Ericsson, Australia and New Zealand, says: “This new world record of an extended 5G cell range of 113 km is a huge win for rural and regional Australia giving Telstra another coverage capability option. Whether it’s enabling remote learning, especially during times of lockdown, or even facilitating remote telehealth over 5G and more such applications, this announcement today demonstrates both Telstra and Ericsson’s dedication to empowering everyday Australians with faster speeds, greater convenience and superior connectivity.”

Telstra will selectively enable this long-range capability based on the local requirements and environment of each mobile site.