Semtech has achieved 5G RedCap certification with AT&T for its EM8695 module.

The California-based company’s EM8695 5G RedCap module, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X35 5G modem-RF system, has also earned FCC and PTCRB certifications, paving the way for carrier certifications across North America.

Successful testing and certification on AT&T’s RedCap network underscores the module’s readiness to enable robust and scalable 5G RedCap connectivity.

These achievements mark a critical step towards enabling widespread adoption of 5G RedCap technology for mid-range IoT applications, including wearable, wireless industrial sensors, video surveillance, asset tracking and mid-speed computing devices.

Recent industry projections emphasise RedCap’s critical role in driving IoT growth. According to Omdia (omdia.tech.informa.com/om122934/5g-in-iot-status-and-emerging-use-cases), global RedCap connections are expected to surge from 27.6m in 2023 to 963.5m by 2030. By 2030, Rethink Research (rethinkresearch.biz/report/5g-redcap-set-to-dominate-cellular-iot-growth-but-when-does-the-door-shut-for-lte-and-unlicensed) predicts RedCap variants will comprise nearly one-third of all cellular IoT connections, highlighting its growing adoption and importance in the industry.

“As the industry moves towards 5G, a new generation of wireless modules are needed,” said Cameron Coursey, vice president at AT&T (www.att.com). “Semtech is leading the drive for innovation and enabling the next wave of IoT deployments. The EM8695 module exemplifies how 5G RedCap technology can enable new and exciting options for our customers.”

Larry Zibrik, vice president at Semtech, added: “We are delighted to achieve this significant milestone in collaboration with AT&T. This accomplishment brings 5G RedCap to reality for our customers and positions Semtech to fuel the next generation of IoT expansion.”

The EM8695 module (info.sierrawireless.com/em8695-ad-lp) represents a transformative technology that makes sustainable, scalable and cost-effective options attainable for more industries.

“We are thrilled to see Semtech’s EM8695 5G RedCap module, which leverages the Snapdragon X35 5G modem-RF system, successfully achieve FCC and PTCRB certifications through testing on AT&T’s RedCap network,” said Gautam Sheoran, vice president at Qualcomm (www.qualcomm.com). “This marks a significant step to expand 5G RedCap capabilities, delivering performance, efficiency and value to the IoT ecosystem.”

Based on 3GPP Release 17, the module addresses the growing demand for future-proof IoT as LTE networks are expected to begin a gradual phase-out by 2030. RedCap offers a balance of performance and efficiency for IoT use cases that do not require the high speeds of traditional 5G but benefit from its scalability, reduced complexity and long-term viability.

Compared with LTE Cat-4 and Cat-6 modules, 5G RedCap provides a 65% reduction in power consumption while still delivering the longevity and scalability of 5G. By offering smaller, less complex and more cost-effective options than traditional 5G, RedCap brings 5G technology to new markets, including agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, retail and smart cities.

The EM8695 module is equipped with LTE fallback capabilities and has an M.2 standard format, ensuring compatibility with Semtech’s existing LTE modules. This enables businesses to transition seamlessly to 5G without the need for significant hardware redesign, ensuring long-term performance and cost efficiency.

Semtech (www.semtech.com) anticipates full certification of its EM8695 module with AT&T during the first half of this year. The company is also pursuing certifications across other regions to align with global carrier rollouts.