5G Keeps Evolving: Key Takeaways from 3GPP Release 18

5G technology continues to evolve, the latest 3GPP Release 18 introduces significant advancements in network capabilities, particularly in throughput, and new ways of calling, which is also referred as Interactive Calling or New Calling. These enhancements are put new requirements on how network operators manage and implement lawful interception, ensuring compliance, higher efficiency and better support for emerging communication technologies. With LIMA Lawful intercept, all the requirements are met regarding 5G and lawful interception. 

Increased Mediation Throughput Beyond 23 Gbps

One of the most notable enhancements in 3GPP Release 18 is the increase in available bandwidth for subscribers. This improvement allows for:

• Higher Data Handling: Networks can manage a larger volume of data, ensuring smoother and more efficient data transfer during interception processes.
• Enhanced Performance: Improved throughput reduces delays and increases the speed at which data can be analyzed and processed, which is critical for real-time applications and lawful interception requirements.

This boost in throughput directly addresses the growing data demands of modern communication networks, providing operators with the necessary tools to keep up with increasing data volumes.

For Lawful Interception, these changes put new requirements for the mediation throughput. The sustained throughput of our LIMA Mediator now exceeds 23 Gbps and therefore fully prepared for the introduction of 3GPP Release 18.

Support for Interception in 5G Advanced or 5.5G for Interactive or New Calling

Release 18 also brings new capabilities for supporting interception in 5G Interactive Calling or New Calling, a key enhancement for modern communication services. It evolves 5G mobile voice services by integrating VoLTE and IMS data channels to enhance calls with high-definition audio, video, and making calls and videos more intelligent and interactive utilizing AI and AR to improve communication efficiency and introduce new features such as visualized voice calling and real-time translation.

This requires:

• Advanced Interception Capabilities: Enhanced mechanisms for intercepting voice and multimedia calls over 5G, ensuring compliance with legal requirements while maintaining high service quality.
• Seamless Integration: Interception capabilities for 5G Advanced or 5.5G are integrated into the existing network architecture, providing a seamless and efficient process for operators.

This addition is crucial for maintaining security and legal compliance in an era where these new generation of calling is becoming increasingly prevalent, offering enriched communication experiences through voice, video, and multimedia services.

Conclusion

3GPP Release 18 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of 5G networks, introducing critical enhancements that address the growing demands for data handling and modern communication support. By increasing mediation throughput beyond 23 Gbps and enabling interception for 5G Advanced or 5.5G core networks, operators can be assured that with the introduction of 3GPP Release 18, they can still comply with the laws and regulations for lawful interception of their 5G services.