Semtech Corporation, a high-performance semiconductor, Internet of Things (IoT) systems and cloud connectivity service provider, today announced a key milestone in 5G RedCap (reduced capacity) rollout.
The company’s EM8695 5G RedCap module, powered by the Snapdragon® X35 5G Modem-RF System, has earned FCC and PTCRB certifications, paving the way for carrier certifications across North America. Additionally, 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 toward 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 emphasize RedCap’s critical role in driving IoT growth. According to Omdia, global RedCap connections are expected to surge from 27.6 million in 2023 to 963.5 million by 2030. By 2030, Rethink Research predicts that 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 toward 5G, a new generation of wireless modules are needed. Semtech is leading the drive for innovation and enabling the next wave of IoT deployments,” said Cameron Coursey, vice president, AT&T Connected Solutions.
“The EM8695 module exemplifies how 5G RedCap technology can enable new and exciting solutions for our customers.”
“We are delighted to achieve this significant milestone in collaboration with AT&T,” said Larry Zibrik, vice president of modules at Semtech. “This accomplishment brings 5G RedCap to reality for our customers and positions Semtech to fuel the next generation of IoT expansion. The EM8695 module represents a transformative technology that makes sustainable, scalable, and cost-effective solutions attainable for more industries than ever before.”
“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 and general manager, Wireless Broadband and Communications, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “This marks a significant step to expand 5G RedCap capabilities, delivering performance, efficiency, and value to the IoT ecosystem.”
Future-Proofing IoT with 5G RedCap
Based on 3GPP Release 17, the EM8695 5G RedCap module addresses the growing demand for future-proof IoT solutions as LTE (Long Term Evolution) networks are expected to begin a gradual phase-out by 2030. RedCap offers an optimal balance of performance and efficiency for IoT use cases that do not require the ultra-high speeds of traditional 5G but benefit from its scalability, reduced complexity, and long-term viability.
Compared to 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 solutions 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 features 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 anticipates full certification of its EM8695 module with AT&T by the first half of 2025. The company is also pursuing certifications across other regions to align with global carrier rollouts.
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