Samsung and Qualcomm validate 5G Power Class 1 for fixed wireless access on virtualized RAN

Samsung Electronics has announced a major development in Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology, achieving successful validation of 5G Power Class 1 (PC1) capability using its virtualized RAN (vRAN) and the Qualcomm Dragonwing FWA Gen 4 Platform, which includes the Qualcomm® X85 Modem-RF chipset. This milestone underscores the dedication of Samsung and Qualcomm Technologies Inc. to enhancing FWA performance and coverage, facilitating improved connectivity in densely populated urban settings as well as remote or low-signal areas.

Power Class (PC) is a standard set by 3GPP, which defines the transmission strength of a device, with a lower class number indicating higher output power. Increased power is essential for enhancing signal quality and extending network reach, which is particularly beneficial in challenging-to-connect regions. As data-heavy and time-sensitive services like AI, autonomous systems, and AR/VR grow, the demand for higher upload speeds increases. PC1 is anticipated to significantly enhance the FWA user experience by delivering fiber-like uplink speeds and reducing bottlenecks, supporting the needs of emerging technologies and future AI services.

The validation was conducted at Samsung’s R&D facility using its fully software-driven vRAN solution, 3.7GHz Massive MIMO radios, and a test device equipped with Qualcomm Technologies’ X85 chipset. Key technical outcomes from the test include:

• Up to 10x Uplink Throughput Enhancement: The application of PC1 technology during the lab test resulted in up to 10 times higher uplink throughput at the cell-edge compared to the PC1.5 standard. This improvement translates to smoother video calls and faster file uploads in typically weak signal areas, like remote regions or isolated building corners.
• 1.4x Coverage Expansion: PC1 also demonstrated the ability to extend the coverage range by up to 40% compared to PC1.5, allowing devices to maintain strong connections over a larger area, even when situated farther from a base station.

Eun Yong Kim, Vice President and Head of Air Technology, Networks Business at Samsung Electronics, stated, “As networks continue to evolve and support more AI-driven services, high-performance wireless infrastructure becomes more essential. This validation highlights Samsung’s readiness to bring advanced technologies to market with partners like Qualcomm Technologies, empowering operators to deliver faster, more efficient networks that are ready to handle everything from seamless industrial data transmission to increasingly data-heavy user experiences.”

Gautam Sheoran, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Connectivity, Broadband and Networking at Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., remarked, “With its higher transmission power, PC1 technology expands both the performance and reach of FWA devices. Our collaboration with Samsung demonstrates how ecosystem innovation is driving smarter, more capable networks — bringing stronger, more reliable connectivity to everyday users.”

Following the successful lab test, the companies have also conducted field tests on a U.S. Tier 1 operator’s network, with the feature anticipated to be commercially available in 2027.

Samsung Networks has been at the forefront of delivering 5G end-to-end solutions, including chipsets, radios, and cores. Through continuous research and development, Samsung is advancing the industry towards 5G networks and laying the groundwork for 6G and beyond with its extensive product portfolio, which includes purpose-built RAN, vRAN, Open RAN, AI RAN, and cloud-native core solutions, as well as private network solutions and AI-powered automation tools. Currently, the company provides innovative network solutions to mobile operators, ensuring limitless connectivity for hundreds of millions of users worldwide.