ZTE Corporation, a global leader in integrated information and communication technology solutions, has partnered with Turkey’s leading telecommunications operator, Turkcell, to successfully conduct the first dynamic Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) trial in Europe. This trial was carried out using the mmWave (millimeter-Wave) spectrum on Turkcell’s 5G Advanced test network.
The innovative RIS solution optimizes mmWave networking, providing a cost-effective, low-carbon approach to large-scale mmWave network deployment. Considered one of the key technologies for the development of 6G networks, RIS utilizes electromagnetic metamaterials to enable intelligent control of large-scale passive antenna elements, extending mmWave coverage, and enhancing network throughput. The technology also supports dynamic beam scanning and user tracking, leading to wider coverage, improved user experience, and enhanced mobility support.
During the field trials, notable improvements were observed in multiple network Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), especially in typical Non-Line-of-Sight (NLoS) areas for mmWave networks. For example, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) increased by 24 dB, downlink peak rates soared from 119 Mbps to 1.89 Gbps, and uplink peak rates jumped from 2.2 Mbps to 248 Mbps. These impressive results demonstrate the potential of RIS technology in enhancing mmWave networks, ensuring broader coverage, higher throughput, and a superior user experience.
Dr. Vehbi Çağrı GÜNGÖR, CTO of Network Technologies at Turkcell, highlighted the company’s commitment to exploring novel communication technologies and identifying their applications for future wireless networks. He remarked, “Through our collaboration with ZTE and their RIS products, we have made valuable observations on the capabilities of RIS technology in mmWave wireless networks. We believe it will significantly contribute to our network planning and accelerate the advent of the 5G-A era, improving user experiences.”
Wang Xiyu, EVP and CTO at ZTE, expressed his pride in partnering with Turkcell to complete the first dynamic RIS trial in Europe. “RIS is a promising technology for the 6G era,” he said. “We are committed to applying RIS technology in the 5G-A era, and will continue to collaborate closely with global partners to conduct further research and commercial pilots, aiming to provide cost-effective solutions for 5G-A network deployment.”
This successful collaboration underscores the growing potential of RIS technology in revolutionizing the telecommunications sector and paving the way for future wireless communication advancements.
