What is 3GPP?
3GPP is the global standards body responsible for developing and maintaining mobile telecommunications specifications — from 3G (UMTS) through 4G (LTE) to 5G (NR) and beyond. It produces the technical specifications that every mobile network operator and device manufacturer in the world must implement.
How Does 3GPP Work?
3GPP works through numbered Releases, each adding new features. Member companies submit technical proposals reviewed by working groups: RAN (radio access), CT (core and terminals), and SA (services and architecture). Specifications are published as Technical Specifications (TS) and Technical Reports (TR) freely available at 3gpp.org.
Use Cases
Every commercial 4G and 5G network globally is built on 3GPP specifications. Release 15 (2018) delivered the first 5G NR standard. Release 16 (2020) added uRLLC, V2X, and IAB. Release 17 (2022) introduced NTN (satellite) and RedCap. Release 18 (2024) defined 5G Advanced with AI/ML integration.
3GPP / Standards Reference
All 3GPP TS/TR documents — freely available at www.3gpp.org
Related Terms
NR | LTE | IMT-2020 | 5G | gNB
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This glossary entry is part of the 5GWorldPro Complete 5G Glossary. To go deeper into 5G architecture and technology, explore our 5G Training courses.
