Softil's MCX framework 'dominates' global deployments in 2023

This ascendancy was marked by receiving the prestigious ICCA’s “Best MC-X Product of the Year” accolade, highlighting the framework's impact on the evolving broadband, open standards-based communications technologies.

Pierre Hagendorf, CEO of Softil, reflected on this achievement, stating: "The year 2023 was a milestone for the Mission-Critical Communications industry. Softil's BEEHD enabling MCX technology has now become the powerhouse behind deployments in networks across the globe and has been recognised by the ICCA as the best framework technology for developers of MCX products and solutions."

Key Developments in MCX technology and deployment:

1. Growth of MCPTT in service: 2023 witnessed a surge in MCPTT deployments, notably with Southern Linc's Critical Linc MCPTT service in Georgia, USA. Key partners included L3Harris, Catalyst Communications Technologies, and AdvanceTec Industries, each contributing innovative solutions to bolster first responder capabilities. Additionally, deployments of BEEHD-based MCX solutions in India's latest railway project signified Softil's global technological influence, extending across three continents.

2. Recognition at ICCA: Softil's BEEHD framework's recognition as the “Best MC-X Product of the Year” at the ICCA 2023 award ceremony in Helsinki, Finland, in May 2023, underscored the company's pioneering role in MCX technology.

3. Advancements in device-to-device communications: 2023 was pivotal for MCX/MCPTT standards-based direct mode communications. Collaborative efforts by Qualcomm, Softil, and Alea demonstrated interoperable MCX D2D communication using Qualcomm’s 5G Sidelink chipset. This technology promises a significant range for D2D communication on standard smartphone transmission power, addressing a crucial gap in broadband MCX communications.

4. Momentum in MCX deployment plans: The year saw a substantial move towards public safety broadband communications in Europe, with several countries announcing their MCX transition plans, aiming for completion between 2028 and 2029.

5. Focus on interoperability: The interoperability journey continued with ETSI Plugtests in Paris and Malaga, focusing on MCX and FRMCS functionality based on the 3GPP Release 17/18. These events also marked the first testing of D2D functionality.

6. Rise in MCX testing: 2023 underscored the importance of rigorous testing for public safety communications solutions. Efforts led by TCCA and GCF aimed at creating a certification program for MCX devices, while leading testing companies developed comprehensive MCX testing suites, partly based on Softil's technology.

7. Progress in FRMCS development: Significant advancements in FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System) were made, with the successful completion of the 5GRail project and progress in the 3GPP standard to support FRMCS requirements. Softil actively contributed to this development, playing a key role in the standardisation process and industry involvement.

As Softil continues to influence and shape the future of critical communications, its MCX framework and collaborative ventures stand as a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and excellence in this dynamic sector.