NR-related Features added in Release – 16

NR-based access to unlicensed spectrum: Use of unlicensed 5/6Ghz band in NR

2 Step RACH for NR: To improve latency

UE Power saving in NR: To improve power efficiency of UEs.

IAB -Integrated access and backhaul for NR: Use of radio access technology for backhaul as well.

Dual Connectivity (EN-DC) with 3 bands DL and 3 bands UL: Provision of aggregating 2 carriers in NR (FR1 & FR2) and have dual connectivity with LTE.

NR Mobility enhancements: To reduce latency during mobility

Add support of NR DL 256QAM for frequency range 2 (FR2): To improve throughput

SON (Self-Organising Networks) and MDT (Minimization of Drive Tests) support for NR: To reduce Capex/Opex and improve customer experience

Introduction of NR FDD bands with variable duplex and corresponding framework: To provide uplink for NR in EUTRAN or other access network

Cross Link Interference (CLI) handling and Remote Interference Management (RIM) for NR: Improve network performance

Reference – 3GPP