For efficient heterogeneous network planning, 3GPP LTE-Advanced has introduced concept of Relay Nodes (RNs). The Relay Nodes are low power eNodeBs that provide enhanced coverage and capacity at cell edges.  One of the main benefits of relaying is to provide extended LTE coverage in targeted areas at low cost.

Originally, when the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) determined what was considered 4G, LTE, WiMAX, and HSPA+ did not make the cut. However, operators began using ‘4G’ term for LTE WiMAX and HSPA+ as they started commercial roll outs, making ITU to reconsider its position.

According to latest GSA report, 113 operators have launched commercial LTE networks in 51 countries. Number of operators, investing in LTE, has gone up by 45%  in a year to 360.

Mobile operators across the globe are being squeezed by decreasing revenues per user, and a seemingly insatiable demand by users for more data. To efficiently manage the rapidly growing increase in data traffic in their networks, mobile operators need to build and improve their infrastructure in a much smarter way than they have hitherto done.

GSA (Global mobile Suppliers Association) has confirmed that 51 mobile networks in 38 countries have launched HD voice services. 127 phones supporting HD Voice (W-AMR) have been announced so far by 14 manufacturers, report adds. Most of these devices operate on 3G/HSPA networks, with some working on GSM networks and some on LTE networks (VoLTE).

Trends in Europe, Middle East and Africa all point in the same direction, as operators know that brand innovation relies on the speed at which they adopt LTE. Concurrent to LTE investments should be investments in ‘Diameter’ signalling infrastructure – critical behind-the-scenes communications necessary to make LTE succeed.

Apple has unveiled fourth generation iPad and new iPad mini with support of additional LTE bands for markets across the world. The new iPad mini features the same number of pixels as the original iPad and iPad 2 to allow apps to work that are designed specifically for iPad.

In an Interview with LteWorld, Paul Beaver, Director of Products at Anite, a global leader in wireless device testing technology, explained importance and challenges for VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology. Here’s what he had to say:

Latest report from GSA puts number of commercial LTE networks to 105 in 48 countries around the globe. 58 operators have launched commercial LTE services since beginning of year. In total, 351 operators are investing in LTE, which is 41% more than a year ago.

LTE subscriber totals have surpassed WiMAX in 2Q12, reports ABI Research. Report also predicts that LTE handsets will surpass 80-percent of device shipments during 2016.

LTE capable iPhone 5 is 8 percent thinner and 20 percent lighter than iPhone 4S.The new iPhone has 4-inch Retina display, an A6 chip and mobile operating system iOS 6 with over 200 new features.

GSA has confirmed that 96 operators have launched commercial LTE services in 46 countries so far. According to GSA, 347 telecoms operators in 104 countries are committed to commercial LTE network deployments or are engaged in trials, technology testing or studies. 68 operators have launched commercial LTE services in the past 12 months.

Apple's new iPhone may come with LTE capability supporting LTE bands for networks around the world, including Europe, Asia and the United States, according to Wall Street Journal article.

Amid recent announcements of support of HD Voice over LTE networks, Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) has confirmed the launch of HD Voice in 35 countries on 45 GSM, 3G/HSPA, LTE networks.