As LTE mobile networks continue to evolve, new technologies designed to bolster throughput by tapping into unlicensed spectrum bands are steadily approaching commercialization. Licensed assisted access, which aggregates LTE in both licensed and unlicensed spectrum, is one such technology set for standardization as part of the LTE-Advanced Pro specifications later this year with 3GPP Release 13.
Qualcomm, in partnership with Deutsche Telekom, this week announced the successful over-the-air trial of LTE LAA in Nuremberg, Germany. According to the companies, the LAA trial demonstrated the “ability to extend coverage and increase network capacity, while delivering seamless mobility, for an enhanced end user experience. It also ensure a fair coexistence with Wi-Fi in unlicensed spectrum.”
Qualcomm is a major proponent of LTE and Wi-Fi sharing unlicensed spectrum; on the other side of the discussion, several Wi-Fi players have suggested that Wi-Fi and LTE sharing spectrum could create interference.
The trial tapped into DT’s licensed spectrum to provide an “anchor carrier,” which was combined with unlicensed spectrum in the 5 GHz band. The test was conducted at Qualcomm’s campus in Nuremberg.
“LAA is one of the key technologies that will help satisfy the increasing demand for data and better mobile connectivity,” said DT CTO Bruno Jacobfeuerborn. “The trial will help the wireless ecosystem and key stakeholders verify and experience the benefits of LAA first hand.”
“This trial is an important milestone demonstrating how global LAA technology will soon provide enhanced consumer benefits to users in Europe,” added Matt Grob, EVP and CTO at Qualcomm.
Qualcomm framed the research and development around LAA as benefiting not only the evolution of LTE, but also the future of next generation “5G” mobile networks, which the companies said are “envisioned to offer native support for aggregation of unlicensed spectrum right from the start.”
