User equipment classification

Abstract

A user equipment, UE, comprising means for: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

Description

[0001] TITLE

[0002] USER EQUIPMENT CLASSIFICATION

[0003] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0004] Examples of the disclosure relate to user equipment, UE, classification. Some relate to UE classification based on evaluation of at least one validation criterion.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] A wireless network comprises a plurality of network nodes including terminal nodes and access nodes. Communication between the terminal nodes and access nodes is wireless.

[0007] Different UEs having different characteristics can operate in a wireless network. In some circumstances it may be desirable to improve or enhance operation of different UEs in a wireless network.

[0008] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0009] According to various, but not necessarily all embodiments, there is provided a user equipment, UE, comprising means for: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

[0010] In some examples, the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types. In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorized based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

[0011] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

[0012] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

[0013] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

[0014] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

[0015] In some examples, the configuration information comprises information to configure at least one of the following: radio resources; at least one measurement entity; or at least one measurement determining factor to be measured.

[0016] In some examples, the means are configured, based, at least in part, on the received configuration information, to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement.

[0017] In some examples, the means are configured to at least one of the following: receive configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or receive the preconfigured UE capability information.

[0018] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises UE type information of the UE.

[0019] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided a method comprising: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

[0020] In some examples, the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

[0021] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

[0022] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

[0023] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

[0024] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

[0025] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

[0026] In some examples, the configuration information comprises information to configure at least one of the following: radio resources; at least one measurement entity; or at least one measurement determining factor to be measured.

[0027] In some examples, the method comprises based, at least in part, on the received configuration information, at least one of the following: transmitting information using configured radio resources; receiving information using configured radio resources; using at least one measurement entity; or making at least one measurement.

[0028] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of the following: receiving configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or receiving the preconfigured UE capability information. According to various, but not necessarily all embodiments there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus at least to perform: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

[0029] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided an apparatus comprising means for: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE; receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

[0030] In some examples, determining configuration information comprises determining at least one UE characteristic based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information.

[0031] In some examples, determining at least one UE characteristic comprises associating the UE capability information to at least one data structure. In some examples, the configuration information comprises information to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement.

[0032] In some examples, the means are configured to at least one of the following: transmit configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or transmit the preconfigured UE capability information.

[0033] In some examples, the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

[0034] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

[0035] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

[0036] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

[0037] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

[0038] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises UE type information of the UE.

[0039] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

[0040] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided a method comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE; receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

[0041] In some examples, determining configuration information comprises determining at least one UE characteristic based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information.

[0042] In some examples, determining at least one UE characteristic comprises associating the UE capability information to at least one data structure.

[0043] In some examples, the configuration information comprises information to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement. In some examples, the method comprises at least one of the following: transmitting configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or transmitting the preconfigured UE capability information.

[0044] In some examples, the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

[0045] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

[0046] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

[0047] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

[0048] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

[0049] In some examples, the UE capability information comprises a UE type index. According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus at least to perform: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE; receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

[0050] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided an apparatus comprising at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code; the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least a part of one or more methods described herein.

[0051] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided an apparatus comprising means for performing at least part of one or more methods described herein.

[0052] The description of a function and / or action should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function and / or action. Functions and / or actions described herein can be performed in any suitable way using any suitable method.

[0053] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided examples as claimed in the appended claims. While the above examples of the disclosure and optional features are described separately, it is to be understood that their provision in all possible combinations and permutations is contained within the disclosure. It is to be understood that various examples of the disclosure can comprise any or all the features described in respect of other examples of the disclosure, and vice versa. Also, it is to be appreciated that any one or more or all the features, in any combination, may be implemented by / comprised in / performable by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions as desired, and as appropriate. The description of a function should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function

[0054] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0055] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0056] FIG. 1 shows an example of the subject matter described herein;

[0057] FIG. 2 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 3 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 4 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 5 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 6 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 7 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 8 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 9 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 10 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 11 shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0058] FIG. 12 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 13 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 14 shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0059] FIG. 15 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; and FIG. 16 shows another example of the subject matter described herein.

[0060] The figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and views of the figures can be shown schematically or exaggerated in scale in the interest of clarity and conciseness. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid explication. Similar reference numerals are used in the figures to designate similar features. For clarity, all reference numerals are not necessarily displayed in all figures.

[0061] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] FIG 1 illustrates an example of a network 100 comprising a plurality of network nodes including terminal nodes 110, access nodes 120 and one or more core nodes 129.

[0063] The terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other. The one or more core nodes 129 communicate with the access nodes 120.

[0064] The network 100 is in this example a radio telecommunications network, in which at least some of the terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other using transmission / reception of radio waves / signals.

[0065] The one or more core nodes 129 may, in some examples, communicate with each other. The one or more access nodes 120 may, in some examples, communicate with each other.

[0066] The network 100 may be a cellular network comprising a plurality of cells 122 each served by an access node 120. In this example, the interface between the terminal nodes 110 and an access node 120 defining a cell 122 is a wireless interface 124.

[0067] The access node 120 is a cellular radio transceiver. The terminal nodes 110 are cellular radio transceivers.

[0068] In the example illustrated the cellular network 100 is a third generation Partnership Project (3GPP) network in which the terminal nodes 110 are user equipment (UE), see, for example, FIG. 2, and the access nodes 120 are base stations.

[0069] In examples the network 100 is an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access network (E-UTRAN). The E-UTRAN consists of E-UTRAN NodeBs (eNBs) 120, providing the E-UTRA user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol terminations towards the UE. The eNBs 120 are interconnected with each other by means of an X2 interface 126. The eNBs are also connected by means of the S1 interface 128 to the Mobility Management Entity (MME) 129.

[0070] In other examples the network 100 is a Next Generation (or New Radio, NR) Radio Access network (NG-RAN). The NG-RAN consists of gNodeBs (gNBs) 120, providing the user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol terminations towards the UE 110. The gNBs 120 are interconnected with each other by means of an Xn interface 126. The gNBs are also connected by means of the N2 interface 128 to the Access and Mobility management Function (AMF).

[0071] In some examples, the access nodes 120 can comprise at least one wireless edge computing server.

[0072] A user equipment (UE) can comprise a mobile equipment. Where reference is made to user equipment that reference includes and encompasses, wherever possible, a reference to mobile equipment.

[0073] The network 100 can comprise a combination of E-UTRAN and NG-RAN.

[0074] The network 100 can comprise a 6thgeneration radio access network, 6GRAN.

[0075] In some examples, terminal nodes 110 of the network 100 comprise different UEs having varying capabilities and requirements. For example, different UEs can have at least one of different hardware configurations, or different software configurations providing different capabilities for the different UEs to, for example, operate in the network 100 and can have different operating requirements. For example, different UEs can have different requirements for, for example, transmitting and receiving information.

[0076] Examples of the disclosure relate to classification of terminal nodes, for example classification of UEs. Some examples, relate to classification of UE types. In examples, a UE is classified based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and the network, for example an access node 120, can use the UE classification to, for example, configure the UE based, at least in part, on the UE classification. For example, a UE can receive configuration information from an access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the UE type of the UE.

[0077] Examples of the disclosure relate to at least one of the following: apparatuses, methods, or computer programs for UE classification.

[0078] Examples of the disclosure relate to at least one of the following: apparatuses, methods, or computer programs for configuring a UE based, at least in part, on a UE classification of the UE.

[0079] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of signaling between entities. FIG. 2 also illustrates an example of a method 200.

[0080] FIG. 2 illustrates methods performed by a system comprising interaction between different system entities. FIG. 2 also illustrates a collection of separate methods performed separately by the different system entities.

[0081] One or more of the features discussed in relation to FIG. 2 can be found in one or more of the other FIGs.

[0082] In the example of FIG. 2, a plurality of apparatuses transmit and / or receive one or more signals and / or messages across and / or via and / or using a network. In examples, any suitable form of communication in any suitable network can be used. For example, at least a portion of the network 100 of FIG. 1 can be used.

[0083] In the example of FIG. 2, a terminal node 110 and an access node 120 transmit and / or receive one or more signals and / or one or more messages.

[0084] In the example of FIG. 2, the terminal node 110 is a UE 170, and the access node is a gNB 172. In examples, transmissions between entities illustrated in FIG. 2 can proceed via any number of intervening entities, including no intervening entities.

[0085] Although a single terminal node 110 is illustrated in the example of FIG. 2, in examples any suitable number of terminal nodes 110 can be included. Similarly, any suitable number of access nodes 120 can be used.

[0086] As used herein, a description of a function / action should also be considered to disclose at least one of the following: enabling, causing, or controlling that function / action. For example, description of transmitting information should also be considered to disclose at least one of the following: enabling transmission of information, causing transmission of information, or controlling transmission of information.

[0087] For example, a description of an apparatus, such as an access node 120, transmitting information should also be considered to disclose at least one controller of the apparatus performing at least one of the following: enabling the apparatus to transmit the information, causing the apparatus to transmit the information, or controlling the apparatus to transmit the information.

[0088] In examples, at least part of method 200 can be considered a method of obtaining classification information of a UE.

[0089] In examples, at least part of method 200 can be considered a method of classifying a UE.

[0090] In examples, at least part of method 200 can be considered a method of configuring a UE based, at least in part, on UE capability information.

[0091] In the illustrated examples, the location of the blocks indicates the entity or entities performing the function(s) / action(s). For example, block 202 is performed by the access node 120 (transmitting) and the terminal node 110 (receiving). For example, block 206 is performed by the access node 120. As used herein, the term ‘block’ is intended to refer to an action or actions indicated in a FIG. For example, the term ‘block’ can refer to the action of transmitting / receiving indicated by reference numeral 202 in FIG. 2, and can also refer to the action of determining indicated by reference numeral 206 and so on.

[0092] At block 202, method 200 comprises transmitting towards a terminal node 110, which in the example of FIG. 2 is a UE 170, a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0093] As FIG. 2 illustrates one or more functions / actions of transmitting, FIG. 2 also illustrates the corresponding receiving and causing / enabling / controlling receiving function(s) / action(s). For example, from the point of view of the terminal node 110, at block 202, method 200 comprises receiving, from an access node 120, which in the illustrated example is a gNB 172, a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0094] UE capability information 176 is an example of terminal node capability information.

[0095] The request 174 for UE capability information 176 can have any suitable form and can be transmitted in any suitable way. For example, the request 174 can be transmitted with any suitable message or messages.

[0096] In some examples, the request 174 for UE capability information 176 is transmitted with a UECapabilityEnquiry message.

[0097] In some examples, the request 174 for UE capability information 176 is transmitted with a radio resource control (RRC) message containing generic UE Capability Enquiry or specific UE type request.

[0098] In examples, UE capability information 176 is information indicating what is the type of the UE 170. For example, UE capability information 176 can comprise information indicating at least one UE characteristic 186. For example, UE capability information 176 can comprise information indicating at least one of: at least one hardware configuration of a UE 170, at least one software configuration of a UE 170, UE capability information, at least one UE requirement and so on.

[0099] In examples, the UE capability information 176 comprises UE type information of the UE.

[0100] In examples at least one of: at least one hardware configuration of a UE 170 or at least one software configuration of a UE 170 can be indicative of UE capability information. Similarly, UE capability information can be indicative of at least one of: at least one hardware configuration of a UE 170 or at least one software configuration of a UE 170.

[0101] At block 204, method 200 comprises transmitting UE capability information 176 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 176 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180.

[0102] In some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types.

[0103] In some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a plurality of UE types.

[0104] Accordingly, from the point of view of the access node 120, at block 204, method 200 comprises receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion.

[0105] In some examples, the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types. For example, the UE type 180 can be selected from a pre-determined set of different UE types wherein the number of UE types in the set of UE types is predetermined and cannot be changed. In some examples, the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from an extendable number of different UE types. For example, the UE type 180 can be selected from a set of different UE types wherein the number of UE types in the set of UE types can be changed, for example the number of UE types can be increased.

[0106] In examples, the UE capability information 176 being preconfigured at the UE 170 means that the UE capability information 176 is configured at the UE 170 prior to the request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170 being received by the UE 170.

[0107] Configuring the UE capability information 176 at the UE 170 can comprise storing UE capability information 176 in at least one memory, for example, of the UE 170.

[0108] The UE capability information 176 can be configured at the UE 170 at any suitable time prior to the request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170 being received by the UE 170. Furthermore, the UE capability information 176 can be configured at the UE 170 in any suitable way.

[0109] For example, the UE capability information 176 can be configured at the UE 170 during manufacture of the UE 170.

[0110] In some examples, an access node 120, such as the access node 120 in the example of FIG. 2, transmits information towards the UE 170 to preconfigure the UE capability information 176 at the UE 170. The information can comprise at least one of configuration information 184 to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information 176, or the preconfigured UE capability information 176. See, for example, block 205.

[0111] At block 205, method 200 comprises, from the point of view of the UE 170, at least one of the following: receiving configuration information 184 to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information 176, or receiving the preconfigured UE capability information Accordingly, from the point of view of the access node 120, block 205 comprises at least one of: transmitting configuration information 184 to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information 176, or transmitting the preconfigured UE capability information 176.

[0112] The configuration information 184 can comprise any suitable information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information 176 at the UE 170. For example, the configuration information 184 can comprise at least one of: capability information of the UE 170, information of at least one validation criterion, or information of at least one UE type 180 and so on.

[0113] That is, the configuration information 184 can comprise any suitable information to enable evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 to allow selection of a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types.

[0114] Returning to the discussion of block 204, in examples the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises any suitable criterion or criteria. For example, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises any suitable criterion or criteria against which at least one characteristic 186 of a terminal node 110, such as a UE 170, can be evaluated. A validation criterion can, in some examples, be considered a performance criterion.

[0115] A characteristic 186 of a UE 170 can comprise at least one of: at least one hardware configuration of the UE 170, at least one software configuration of the UE 170, capability of the UE 170, at least one requirement of the UE 170 such as at least one data requirement of the UE 170 and so on.

[0116] In examples, a validation criterion 178 is linked to at least one UE characteristic 186. For example, a validation criterion 178 can define a condition, such as a range of values for a linked or associated UE characteristic 186, against which the characteristics of a UE 170 can be checked.

[0117] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency. In some examples, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises at least one of the following: UE class, maximum throughput, energy efficiency, or latency.

[0118] In some examples, UE class pertains to UE classification in terms of purpose or use case, for example regular smartphone, Internet of Things device, extended Reality device and so on.

[0119] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

[0120] In examples, evaluating at least one validation criterion 178 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against the at least one validation criterion 178 to determine the UE type 180.

[0121] In some examples, evaluating at least one validation criterion 178 comprises determining which validation criterion 178 or criteria are true for a UE 170 based on at least one UE characteristic.

[0122] In examples, different ranges of a UE characteristic 186 can be defined as different validation criteria, as different classes, or as different categories of a UE characteristic 186

[0123] In examples, a class / category of a UE characteristic 186 can be considered a validation criterion 178.

[0124] For example, for a validation criterion 178 of maximum power consumption in idle mode, evaluating the validation criterion can comprise determining the appropriate UE characteristic 186 (maximum power consumption in idle mode) and determining which class / category of the at least one validation criterion 178 applies to the UE 170. For example, low category (maximum power consumption in idle mode in a first range), mid category (maximum power consumption in idle mode in a second, higher range), or high category (maximum power consumption in idle mode in a third, still higher range).

[0125] By way of example, reference is made to the examples of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

[0126] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates evaluation of three validation criteria 178 to determine a UE type 180 for a UE 170.

[0127] In the example of FIG. 4, the validation criteria 178 comprise achievable maximum throughput, energy efficiency, and maximum tolerable latency for a UE 170.

[0128] The associated UE characteristics 186A, 186B, 186C are evaluated against the validation criteria 178 to determine a UE type 180. In the example of FIG. 4, the achievable maximum throughput 186A of the UE 170, the energy efficiency 186B of the UE 170, and the maximum tolerable latency 186C of the UE 170 are evaluated against the validation criteria 178 to determine a UE type 180.

[0129] In the illustrated example, it is determined into which class of at least one possible class for the different validation criteria the UE 170 falls. For example, one or more ranges of values for the different validation criteria can be set to define the different classes / categories for the different validation criteria and it can be determined into which class / category the UE 170 falls given the appropriate UE characteristics 186A, 186B, 186C.

[0130] In the example of FIG. 4 UE capability information 176 comprising a UE type 180 of the UE is determined. FIG. 4 can be considered to illustrate determining a UE type 180.

[0131] The example of FIG. 5 is similar to the example of FIG. 4, however in the example of FIG. 5 a fourth validation criterion 178 is included. The fourth validation criterion 178 is base UE class\other distinct characteristics 168D of the UE 170. Any suitable characteristic(s) of a UE 170 can be used. In the example of FIG. 5 the appropriate UE characteristics 186A, 186B, 186C, 186D are evaluated against the validation criteria 178 to determine a UE type 180.

[0132] In examples, determining UE characteristics 186 can be performed in any suitable way using any suitable method. In some examples determining UE characteristics comprises performing at least one measurement, for example at least one of at least one radio measurement, at least one data measurement, at least one power measurement and so on.

[0133] In some examples, UE characteristic information is preconfigured at the UE 170. In some examples, UE characteristic information is determined by the UE 170.

[0134] In some examples, at least one UE characteristic 186 is determined based, at least in part, on at least one predetermined formula. In examples at least one of the at least one formula is defined in at least one technical specification, such as at least one 3rdgeneration partnership project (3GPP) technical specification.

[0135] For example, at least one of the following: maximum number of physical resource blocks, maximum resource blocks allocation with reference to Ml MO layers and / or radio symbols and / or radio frames and / or time instance; maximum time for processing given amount of radio resources, radio frames, message(s) or operations; amount of power used for a given radio resources processing or in a given time instance and so on.

[0136] As illustrated in the examples of FIGs 4 and 5, in examples, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises ranges of values associated with at least one UE characteristic 186 to enable a determination into which class for that particular UE characteristic the UE 170 falls. That is, in examples, it is determined which of the at least one validation criterion 178 is true for the associated UE characteristic 186 of a UE 170.

[0137] Any suitable ranges of values can be used for validation criteria 178. In examples, the range of values used for validation criterion 178 is determined based, at least in part, on the associated or linked UE characteristic 186. For example, different ranges of values can be used for maximum power consumption compared to maximum achievable data rate and so on.

[0138] For example, with reference to the example of FIG. 4: maximum achievable throughput with the boundaries for achievable throughput range are, in examples, sourced from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements. For instance, the validation criteria differentiate four ranges of achievable throughput by the UE 170: 1 : up 200Mb / s, 2: 201-1000Mb / s, 3: >1000Mb / s, 4: any

[0139] Energy efficiency, with the boundaries for energy consumption range are sourced, in examples, from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements).

[0140] For instance, the validation criteria differentiate four ranges of power consumption by the UE 170: 1 : average power consumption in mA measured over predefined time T, 2: average power consumption in mA measured over predefined time T, implying with higher power consumption than a device classified into category 1 , and so on

[0141] In some examples, the validation criteria differentiate four ranges of maximum output transmission power by the UE 170, where: 1 : maximum output transmission in dBm is sourced, in examples, from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements), 2: maximum output transmission in dBm is higher than for a device classified into category 1 , and so on.

[0142] Maximum tolerable latency with the boundaries for allowable delay range are sourced, in examples, from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements

[0143] For instance, the validation criteria differentiate of maximum processing delay for the predefined operations performed by the UE 170: 1 : delay to establish connection is less than 10ms, 2: delay to establish connection is less than 20ms, and so on.

[0144] In examples, different UE types 180 are associated with different sets of validation criteria. For example, a UE 170 having characteristics 186 that fall into a first set of classes of validation criteria 178 is of a first UE type 180 and a UE 170 having characteristics 186 that fall into a second, different set of classes of validation criteria 178 is of a second UE type 180. In examples, the first and second sets of classes are different but can overlap.

[0145] In examples, a UE type 180 can therefore be associated with a plurality of UE characteristics 186, and therefore a UE type 180 can enable, for example, mapping of several UE characteristics 186 to a single UE type 180, which can, in examples, be represented by a single digit.

[0146] Returning to the discussion of FIG. 2, UE capability information 176 can comprise any suitable information indicative of at least one UE characteristic 186, and in examples comprises a UE type 180.

[0147] In examples, the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type index. A UE type index can comprise information configured to indicate a UE type 180. A UE type index can comprise any suitable information. For example, a UE type index can comprise any suitable information to indicate a particular UE type 180.

[0148] In examples, a UE type index comprises a reference to a data structure to enable a determination of the UE type 180. In some examples, a UE type 180 can be represented by, for example, a single digit representation which can be efficiently transmitted from the UE 170 to the access node 120 and which, as discussed above in relation to FIGs 4 and 5, can be used by the access node 120 to determine a set of UE characteristics 186 of the UE 170 from, for example, the UE type index.

[0149] As discussed above, in some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a predetermined number of different UE types that is fixed in number and in some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a plurality of UE types that is extendable in number.

[0150] In examples, the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria 178 and a UE type 180 to be used for UEs 170 that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

[0151] For example, the pre-determined number of UE types can comprise a plurality of UE types associates with different sets of pre-defined validation criteria 178 and a UE type 180 to be used for UEs 170 that do not meet the pre-defined validation criteria of any of the sets of pre-defined validation criteria.

[0152] In some examples, the number of sets of pre-defined validation criteria 178, and associated UE types 180, is fixed and cannot be changed. For example, no additional sets of validation criteria 178 can be defined and therefore no additional UE types can be created.

[0153] An example of a plurality of UE types 180 and associated validation criteria 178 is provided in the example of table 1.

[0154] Table 1

[0155] Table 1 illustrates an example of a data structure associating four UE types 180 with corresponding validation criteria 178. The validation criteria 186 have been indicated in terms of different classes of different UE characteristics 186. Table 1 can be considered a mapping table.

[0156] In examples, a UE type 180 is associated with a validation criterion 178 if fulfilment of the validation criterion is indicated for the UE type 180 to be true for a UE 170. See, for example, table 1. The example of table 1 illustrates how evaluation of validation criteria 178 enables determining of a UE type 180. For example, it can be seen in the example of table 1 that a UE 170 that has characteristics that satisfy UE characteristic 1 - class 1 , UE characteristic 2 - class 1, and UE characteristic 3 - class 1 is represented by UE Type 1, and can therefore be represented by the UE type index ‘T.

[0157] Accordingly, in the example of table 1 , UE type 1 is associated with UE characteristic 1 - class 1 , UE characteristic 2 - class 1 , and UE characteristic 3 - class 1.

[0158] Table 1 also illustrates how a UE type 180 can map to a plurality of UE characteristics 186. For example, if UE capability information 176 comprising UE type 1 selected from the list in table 1 , it can be determined that the UE 170 has characteristics that satisfy UE characteristic 1 - class 1, UE characteristic 2 - class 1 , and UE characteristic 3 - class 1.

[0159] In the example of table 1 , UE type 4 has no associated validation criteria 178 and is used for any UEs 170 that do not satisfy any of the other UE types. UEs of any type can therefore be categorized into one of the UE types 180 in the example of table 1.

[0160] Table 1 is an example of a pre-determined number of different UE types 180 that are fixed and are not extendable to include additional UE types 180.

[0161] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types 180 are categorized based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

[0162] For example, in the example of table 1, the validation criteria / UE characteristics can be chosen to categorize the different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one of energy efficiency or performance.

[0163] In some examples, the pre-determined number of different UE types 180 comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type. In example, the mixed performance type can be used for UEs 170 that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for the other UE types 180. In table 2, another example classification of devices under an example of a fixed number of UE types 180 is illustrated. In the example of table 2, the most defining measurable characteristics are considered for the segregation and the validation criteria for admission to each segment is defined in 3GPP specifications. For example, minimum and maximum achievable data rate threshold for the Moderate performance category can be specified where the data rate is calculated through a specific formula defined in the standards. Table 2

[0164] In the example of table 2, the UE type 180, which is represented by a UE Type ID (1 to 4) / UE type index, is assigned to certain UE class that passes validation criterion 178 defined for the class (sourced, in this example, from 3GPP standard).

[0165] In examples, there are formulas used to define the boundaries for operation within each class.

[0166] In the example of FIG. 2, for two of the classes: High energy efficiency and high performance, there is at least one dominant measurable characteristic / validation criterion required: energy efficiency / power consumption and maximum achievable throughput / peak data rate, respectively.

[0167] In the example of FIG. 2, the remaining two classes (Moderate performance and Mixed performance) are characterized by higher number of validation criteria, which may vary.

[0168] Tables, such as the examples of table 1 and table 2, are examples of a fixed way of categorizing different characteristics of devices into a UE Type 18, that can be represented by one index (that is UE Type X) out of a range (for example, 1 to 4). Any UE, such as any sixth generation (6G) UE 170 should be classified into one of the, for example, 4 categories.

[0169] As previously noted, in some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a predetermined number of different UE types that is fixed in number and in some examples, the UE type 180 is selected from a plurality of UE types that is extendable in number.

[0170] In some examples, the plurality of different UE types comprises UE types associated with different validation criteria 178. For example, the plurality of different UE types that is extendable in number is associated with different validation criteria 178. In examples, the number of UE types can be increased as, for example, different UE devices are created and included into the categorization.

[0171] In some examples, the plurality of UE types comprise at least one UE type 180 reserved for association with a new set of validation criteria 178. A new set of validation criteria 178 can be a set of validation criteria 178 not previously associated with a UE type 180.

[0172] Another example of a plurality of UE types 180 and associated validation criteria 178 is provided in the example of table 3.

[0173] Table 3

[0174] Table 3 illustrates an example of a data structure associating a plurality of UE types 180 with corresponding validation criteria 178. The validation criteria 186 have been indicated in terms of different classes of different UE characteristics 186. Table 3 can be considered a mapping table. 29

[0175] Table 3 is an example of an extendable number of UE types. In the example of table 3, there is at least one UE type, for example UE type N, reserved for association with a new set of validation criteria 178.

[0176] For example, if a new UE 170 is developed that does not satisfy the validation criteria 178 associated with any of the existing UE types 180 (for example UE types 1 to 4 in the example of table 3) a new UE type 180 can be created and associated with a set of validation criteria 178 that characterizes the newly developed UE 170.

[0177] In examples, a number of bits can be reserved to represent newly created UE types.

[0178] In some examples, the at least one validation criterion 178 comprises an extendible list of validation criteria 178. For example, in the example of table 3 new validation criteria 178, such as UE characteristic Z - class Y can be added to the table as needed, for example if a new type of UE 170 is developed and new validation criteria 178 are used to characterize the new type of UE 170.

[0179] Another example of device categorization under an extendable or flexible number of UE types is shown in table 4.

[0180] Table 4 In the example of FIG. 4, the mapping table is a flexible and extendible way of categorizing different characteristics of devices into one UE Type 180, that can be represented by one index (that is UE Type X).

[0181] In examples, the UE Type index corresponds to one of the indices that is derived from the UE Type Categorization.

[0182] For instance, in the example of table 4, the derivation process can classify a device with the split to: base class (for example UE base class 4 - Normal) maximum achievable throughput class (for example UE throughput class 2 with the boundaries for achievable throughput range are sourced from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements) energy efficiency class (for example UE energy efficiency class 2 - with the boundaries for energy consumption range are sourced from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements) latency class (for example. UE latency class 2 - with the boundaries for latency range are sourced from predefined (for example by formulas or standardized) requirements)

[0183] In examples, the table facilitates the UE classification and leads to mapping of a device’s performance to a UE Type 180. Based on the given example, such UE can be classified to UE Type 4.

[0184] In examples, any UE 170, such as any 6G UE 170, should be compliant with sending the UE Capability Information message that supports setting the UE Type field according to the determined UE Type index.

[0185] Returning to the discussion of FIG. 2, in some examples, the access node 120 configures the terminal node 110, such as a UE 170, with at least one new UE type and associated set of validation criteria 178. See, for example, block 212. In some examples, the access node 120 associates a new set of validation criteria with at least one reserved UE type. For example, when a new UE device is developed that is not characterized by any UE types, the access node 120 can characterize a new UE type with a newly generated set of associated validation criteria 178.

[0186] At block 212, method 200 comprises transmitting configuration information 188 to add a UE type 180 to the plurality of different UE types. For example, the configuration information 188 can add a UE type 180 and associated validation criteria 178 to table 3 or table 4. In some examples at least one new validation criteria can be added.

[0187] Consequently, in examples, from the point of view of the access node 120, method 200 comprises determining configuration information 188 to indicate the at least one reserved UE type and associated criteria set, and transmitting the configuration information 188 towards at least one UE 170.

[0188] From the point of view of the UE 170, block 212 comprises receiving configuration information 188 to add a UE type 180 to the plurality of different UE types.

[0189] At block 204, the UE capability information 176 comprising the selected UE type 180 can be transmitted towards the access node 120 in any suitable way, using any suitable method. For example, the UE capability information 176 can be transmitted with any suitable message or messages.

[0190] In some examples, the UE capability information 176 is transmitted with at least one of the following: UE Capability Enquiry message, specific UE Type Request, UE information Request, or UE Assistance information.

[0191] In some examples, the UE capability information 176 is transmitted with a UECapabilitylnformation message.

[0192] The following is an example of UE-type information element encoding in a UE Capability Information message: UECapabilitylnformation message

[0193] — ASN1 START

[0194] — TAG-UECAPABILITYINFORMATION-START

[0195] UECapabi l itylnformation : : = SEQUENCE { rrc-Trans actionidenti fi er RRC-Trans actionldenti f i er , criti cal Ext ens ions CHOICE { ueCapabi l itylnf ormat ion UECapabi l itylnf ormat ion-IEs , criti cal Ext ens ions Future SEQUENCE { } }

[0196] }

[0197] UECapabi l itylnformation-IEs : : = SEQUENCE { u e - T yp e UE-TypelndexLi st , l ateNonCriticalExtension OCTET STRING

[0198] OPTIONAL , nonCriti calExtens ion SEQUENCE { }

[0199] OPTIONAL

[0200] }

[0201] UE-TypelndexLi st : : = INTEGER ( 1 . . ue -TypelndexSet )

[0202] — TAG-UECAPABILITYINFORMATION-STOP

[0203] — ASN1 STOP

[0204] In the above example, the IE UECapabilitylnformation message is used to transfer UE capability information 176 requested by the network.

[0205] In some examples, the UECapabilitylnformation message can be transferred from the UE 170 to the network using logical channel dedicated control channel (DCCH).

[0206] At block 206, method 200 comprises determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0207] In examples, block 206 comprises determining configuration 182 to configure the UE 170 based, at least in part, on at least one of at least one capability or at least one requirement of the UE 170. For example, the access node 120 can take into account the performance capability and data requirements of the UE 170 when determining the configuration information 182.

[0208] Accordingly, in examples, the configuration information 182 can be tailored based, at least in part, on the UE capability information 176 received from the UE 170. In some examples, determining configuration information 182 comprises determining at least one UE characteristic 186 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176. For example, at least one UE characteristic 186 can be deduced or inferred from the received UE capability information 176.

[0209] In examples, determining at least one UE characteristic 186 comprises associating the UE capability information 176 to at least one data structure.

[0210] In some examples, determining at least one UE characteristic 186 comprises using the UE capability information 176 in relation to at least one data structure.

[0211] The UE capability information 176 can be used to reference at least one data structure to determine at least one UE characteristic 186. For example, a UE type 180 can be used to reference a mapping table, such as any of tables 1 to 4, to determine at least one UE characteristic 186 associated with the UE type 180.

[0212] The configuration information 182 can comprise information to configure any suitable aspect at the UE 170.

[0213] In some examples, the configuration information 182 comprises information to configure the UE 170 to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources, receive information using configured radio resources, use at least one measurement entity, or make at least one measurement.

[0214] For example, different UE types can be configured with different sets of resources, different sets of measurement entities, different sets of measurement entities to be measured and so on.

[0215] In examples, using at least one measurement entity comprises performing at least one measurement type. For example, if the UE 170 is an energy efficient UE type, the UE 170 can be configured to perform at least one power consumption measurement.

[0216] At block 208, method 200 comprises transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the terminal node 100, which in the illustrated example, is a UE 170. Consequently, FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0217] Consequently, FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0218] The configuration information 182 can be transmitted in any suitable way. For example, the configuration information 182 can be transmitted with any suitable message or messages.

[0219] In examples, the configuration information 182 is transmitted with at least one of the following: at least one radio resource control (RRC) Reconfiguration message, at least one ResourceConfig message, or at least one MeasurementConfig message.

[0220] From the point of view of the terminal node 110, which in the example of FIG. 2 is a UE 170, block 208 comprises receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0221] Consequently, FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a predetermined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0222] Consequently, FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0223] In examples, the configuration information 182 comprises information to configure at least one of the following: radio resources, at least one measurement entity, or at least one measurement determining factor to be measured.

[0224] In some examples, method 200 comprises configuring the UE 170 based, at least in part, on the received configuration information 182, to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources, receive information using configured radio resources, use at least one measurement entity, or make at least one measurement.

[0225] In examples, the UE 170 can be configured by the configuration information 182 to perform any suitable action or actions. Therefore, configuration of any suitable action or actions at the UE 170 can be determined based, at least in part, on the UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0226] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a method 600.

[0227] Method 600 can be performed by any suitable apparatus comprising any suitable means for performing method 600, for example an apparatus as described in relation to FIG. 11 and / or 12.

[0228] In examples, method 600 can be performed by a terminal node 110, such as a UE 170, or by at least one control device configured to control the functioning thereof.

[0229] At block 602, method 600 comprise receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0230] At block 604, method 600 comprises transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types.

[0231] At block 606, method 600 comprises receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0232] Consequently, FIG. 6 illustrates a method 600 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a predetermined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0233] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a method 700.

[0234] Method 700 can be performed by any suitable apparatus comprising any suitable means for performing method 700, for example an apparatus as described in relation to FIG. 11 and / or FIG. 12.

[0235] In examples, method 700 can be performed by at least one access node 120, such as a gNB 172, or by at least one control device configured to control the functioning thereof.

[0236] At block 702, method 700 comprises transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0237] At block 704, method 700 comprises receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE type.

[0238] At block 706, method 700 comprises determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0239] At block 708, method 700 comprises transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170. Consequently, FIG. 7 illustrates a method 700 comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0240] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a method 800.

[0241] Method 800 can be performed by any suitable apparatus comprising any suitable means for performing method 800, for example an apparatus as described in relation to FIG. 11 and / or 12.

[0242] In examples, method 800 can be performed by a terminal node 110, such as a UE 170, or by at least one control device configured to control the functioning thereof.

[0243] At block 802, method 800 comprises receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0244] At block 804, method 800 comprises transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of UE types.

[0245] At block 806, method 800 comprises receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170. Consequently, FIG. 8 illustrates a method 800 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0246] FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a method 900.

[0247] Method 900 can be performed by any suitable apparatus comprising any suitable means for performing method 900, for example an apparatus as described in relation to FIG. 11 and / or FIG. 12.

[0248] In examples, method 900 can be performed by at least one access node 120, such as a gNB 172, or by at least one control device configured to control the functioning thereof.

[0249] At block 902, method 900 comprises transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0250] At block 904, method 900 comprises receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178.

[0251] At block 906, method 900 comprises determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170. At block 908, method 900 comprises transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0252] Consequently, FIG. 9 illustrates a method 900 comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0253] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of signaling between entities. FIG. 3 also illustrates an example of a method 300.

[0254] FIG. 3 is similar to the example of FIG. 2. Blocks 302, 306, 308, 310, and 314 are similar to blocks 202, 204, 206, 208, and 212 respectively and can be as described in relation to those blocks in FIG. 2.

[0255] However, in the example of FIG. 3, the UE capability information 174 is not predetermined at the UE 170.

[0256] The example of FIG. 3 also includes block 304. At block 304, method 300 comprises determining UE capability information 178 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of different UE types based on the evaluation.

[0257] Evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 can be as described in relation to the example of FIG. 2. See, for example, FIGs 4 and 5.

[0258] Selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of different UE types based on the evaluation can be as described in relation to the example of FIG. 2. For example, in examples determining at least one UE characteristic 186 comprises determining at least one of the at least one UE characteristic 186 based, at least in part, on at least one predetermined formula. In examples at least one of the at least one predetermined formula is defined in at least one technical specification, such as at least one 3rdgeneration partnership project (3GPP) technical specification

[0259] For example, selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of different UE types can comprise using the at least one UE characteristic in relation to at least one data structure.

[0260] For example, selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of different UE types can comprise using any of tables 1 to 4.

[0261] In some examples, method 300 comprises determining UE capability information 176 of the UE 180 in response to receiving the request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170.

[0262] In the example of FIG. 3 the determined UE capability information 176 is transmitted towards the access node 120 at block 306.

[0263] FIG. 3 illustrates a method 300 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; determining UE capability information 174 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types based on the evaluation; transmitting the determined UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170. Examples of the disclosure are advantageous and / or provide technical benefits.

[0264] For example, examples of the disclosure provide for the network to have a better understanding about the characteristic(s) of a UE and to configure resources, for example, in an optimal manner to serve the UEs requirements.

[0265] For example, examples of the disclosure enable air interface overhead reduction as, for example, examples provide for transfer of a UE type 180 as a single bit indication.

[0266] For example, examples of the disclosure provide a set of indices that can accommodate new device categories.

[0267] For example, examples of the disclosure provide a unified framework that can be applied to 6G.

[0268] For example, examples of the disclosure provide futureproof categorization and signaling procedures that support device newly created device types and categories.

[0269] For example, examples of the disclosure provide for a well established framework for mutual understanding of device’s performance in the network (between the UE and serving network), tailored configurations, better network performance, optimized and futureproof handling of devices.

[0270] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a method 1000.

[0271] Method 1000 can be performed by any suitable apparatus comprising any suitable means for performing method 800, for example an apparatus as described in relation to FIG. 11 and / or 12.

[0272] In examples, method 1000 can be performed by a terminal node 110, such as a UE 170, or by at least one control device configured to control the functioning thereof.

[0273] At block 1002, method 1000 comprises receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170. At block 1004, method 1000 comprises determining UE capability information 174 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types based on the evaluation.

[0274] In examples, selecting a UE type 180 is a separate block 1005.

[0275] At block 1006, method 1000 comprises transmitting the determined UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120.

[0276] At block 1008, method 1000 comprises receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0277] Consequently, FIG. 10 illustrates a method 1000 comprising: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; determining UE capability information 174 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types based on the evaluation; transmitting the determined UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0278] Examples of the disclosure provide a manageable number of compulsory UE categories with clear demarcations which caters for specific use cases. Examples of the disclosure provide a classification which considers the prominently differentiating aspects of device performance, energy efficiency and latency as the basis. Examples of the disclosure introduce UE types, for example in 6G standardization, to provide better understanding in the network about a particular UE and to configure resources in an optimal manner to serve its requirements.

[0279] In categorizing UEs for 6G, for example, examples of the disclosure distinguish UEs with different form factors, for example wearables, glasses, smartphones, low-cost sensors and loT.

[0280] In examples, the UE requirements necessary for effective operation of different UE types can be distinct including L1, L2 and RF requirements. Therefore, in examples a solution is described which provides exact definitions used for segregating UEs into classes.

[0281] In examples, employing a formula for calculating the supported data rates and its components is useful for both UEs and networks.

[0282] In examples of the disclosure, two options for UE Type classifications are described. In any of the options, UE Type can be identified by one index, that facilitates recognition of several validation criteria. Such a UE Type classification enables collective mapping of several performance criteria based on one-digit representations.

[0283] Option 1

[0284] In examples, under this option UE types are categorized in to four crisp UE Types (Device classes).

[0285] In examples, there are two extremes for devices: super saver (loT) and super performer (XR), leading to three categories with an additional allocation for mixed performance devices.

[0286] • Super saver / high energy-efficient / low performance devices

[0287] • High performance / low energy-efficient devices

[0288] • Moderate performance devices (any device in between)

[0289] • Mixed Performance (Upgradable) In examples, the adjustable moderate UE type varies in terms of device requirements and capabilities, facilitating targeted development, deployment, and marketing strategies.

[0290] In examples, any sub-types with mixed benchmarking would fall into the mixed performance category that contain devices with variable operation ranging from a moderate type towards a high performer.

[0291] In examples, this option offers a simplistic framework for dividing UEs into fundamental categories of low performance, high performance and moderate performance.

[0292] Examples of the disclosure provide for different UE behavior than currently in the network in terms of a UE being assigned a specific UE Type ID (1..4) that passes validation criterion defined for the class (sourced from 3GPP standard).

[0293] In some examples, additional determining factors such as the Power consumption (maximum power in idle and active mode), Latency and responsiveness (maximum latency for data transmission) in addition to the Data rate (minimum and maximum achievable data rate) (as in 5G), are taken as input to internal UE algorithm to derive UE Type ID.

[0294] In some examples, the UE can be empowered to perform the derivation based on raw UE capabilities for the concerned criteria. For instance, the UE raw capability can be to determine or know (based on implementation characteristics) its achievable throughput, energy efficiency and latency.

[0295] In examples, the UE device can take the parameters to determine its type. After the internal procedure of determination of the UE Type under Option 1 , the device derives UE Type category, that can be represented by one index (i.e. UE Type X) out of range (1...4), for example. In examples, the index determined the UE Type derivation process is the outcome of internal UE algorithm. It is considered as UE owned characteristic to be used in signaling framework for UE Type classification under Option 1. See, for example, FIG. 15

[0296] Option 2

[0297] In examples, the second option is to create an extendable indexed table of UE Types.

[0298] In examples, the most defining measurable characteristics set the boundaries for segregation and a device that satisfies the validation criteria is classified under the corresponding category.

[0299] • The 3 main attributes of achievable maximum throughput, energy efficiency, and the maximum tolerable latency are mainly considered for classification.

[0300] • A UE type is mapped to an index with string of bits indicating the specific class related to each attribute.

[0301] • Standard formulas or value ranges defined in the 3GPP standards used to divide the UEs into classes in terms of each considered attribute.

[0302] • Spare bits are used to indicate new UE types with specific unique defining characteristics in addition to the above.

[0303] • Several bits are reserved for indicating the main intended use case of the device.

[0304] Examples of the disclosure eliminate the requirement of resorting to ad hoc methodologies in standardization whenever a new completely different device emerges in the market.

[0305] In examples, a clear definition of each UEs operational requirement is presented through the segregation into classes through pre-defined formulas for, for example, achievable maximum throughput, energy efficiency and latency classes. In examples, proper controlling of admission to device classes prevents the extension of the table beyond manageable limits.

[0306] Examples of the disclosure create an extendable table with indexes which consider mainly the three main attributes of achievable maximum throughput, energy efficiency, and the maximum tolerable latency.

[0307] In examples, a UE type is mapped an index and, for each index there would be a string of bits indicating the specific class of the UE related to each attribute.

[0308] In examples, the validation criterion for division of UEs to these classes with regard to each attribute is done through the use of standard formulas or value ranges defined in the 3GPP standards. These formulas are used to define the boundaries for operation within each class.

[0309] Since these 3 attributes are not exhaustive in defining the UE Type, in examples several spare bits are kept to indicate new UE types with specific unique defining characteristics. For example, a UE for which is otherwise similar to a previously defined category but needs precise positioning accuracy as a critical requirement for its operation can be differentiated as a separate UE Type through these spare fields.

[0310] In some examples, several bits are also reserved for indicating the main use case the device is intended to be used for. In examples, this is used only if it is mandatory to treat that specific device differently for network operation. 5G defined UE types of RedCap, Vehicular and XR are examples of this scenario.

[0311] Examples of the disclosure prevent ad hoc changes to the 3GPP specifications in case of a device with entirely new characteristics arrive in the market by facilitating a mechanism to extend the proposed UE Type categorization table.

[0312] However, in examples it is necessary to manage the device within the already defined UE Types in case the UE does not offer a completely distinguishing capability that does not warrant differentiated operation. Examples of the disclosure provide different UE behavior than currently in the network in terms of a UE being assigned UE Type which is determined by a bit string which encapsulates the defining characteristics of that UE.

[0313] In examples, the UE is required to communicate the specific UE capability information to the NW. Sample categorization is specified in table 3 or 4.

[0314] In examples, an extendable table with indexes considers the three main attributes of achievable maximum throughput, energy efficiency, the maximum tolerable latency and the UE base type.

[0315] Some examples of the disclosure consider the four inputs as input to internal UE algorithm to derive UE Type ID. In examples, after the internal procedure of determination of the UE Type, the device derives UE Type category, that can be represented by one index (i.e. UE Type X) out of range (1 ... N).

[0316] In examples, the UE Type derivation process concerns flexible validation criteria (instead of, for example, three fixed criteria applied in in other examples): maximum achievable throughput with the boundaries for achievable throughput range are sourced from predefined requirements energy efficiency, with the boundaries for energy consumption range are sourced from predefined) requirements

[0317] Maximum tolerable latency with the boundaries for allowable delay range are sourced from predefined requirements device base class, associated to any other validation criteria

[0318] In some examples, after the internal procedure of determination of the UE Type, the device derives UE Type category, that can be represented by one index (i.e. UE Type X) out of list of indices (UE-TypelndexSet).

[0319] In examples, the index is the outcome of internal UE algorithm, that is the outcome of the UE Type derivation process and is considered as UE owned characteristic to be used in signaling framework for UE Type classification. See, for example, FIG. 16. In examples, division of devices into UE types can be supported by UE Capability framework. See, for example, FIGs 13 to 16.

[0320] FIGs 13 to 16 illustrate examples of signaling between entities. FIGs 13 to 16 also illustrate examples of methods 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600.

[0321] FIGs 13 to 16 are similar to the examples of FIGs 2 and 3. However, in the examples of FIGs 13 to 16, a first UE 170A and a second UE 170B are included.

[0322] With regard to the example of FIG. 13, if the Radio Access Node 120 requests UE Capabilities (e.g. by UE Capability Enquire message) (block 1304), a UE of certain type indicates in UE Capability Information message a UE Type index (block 1306).

[0323] In the illustrated example, the UE Type index corresponds to one of the four indices that is derived from the UE Type Categorization. The table facilitates the UE classification and leads to mapping of a device’s performance to a UE Type compliant with sending the UE Capability Information message that supports setting the UE Type field according to the determined UE Type index (blocks 1308, 1310).

[0324] With regard to FIG. 14 In examples, if the Radio Access Node requests UE Capabilities (for example by UE Capability Enquire message) (block 1404), a UE of certain type indicates in UE Capability Information message a UE Type index (block 1406).

[0325] With regard to the example of FIG. 15 after UECapabilityEnquiry message in downlink (DL) (block 1504), the UE should respond with the UECapabilitylnformation message in uplink (UL) (block 1508), which will pass in the RRC message the index derived in the process of determination of the UE Type (block 1506).

[0326] With regard to the example of FIG. 16, After UECapabilityEnquiry message in DL (block 1604), the UE should response with the UECapabilitylnformation message in UL (block 1608), which will pass the index in RRC message derived in the process of determination of the UE Type (block 1606), whereas the index can take any value of N. Fig 11 illustrates an example of a block diagram of an apparatus 130. The apparatus 130 may be a controller of an apparatus or device such as a terminal node 110, for example a UE 170, or an access node 120. The apparatus 130 may be considered a controller or controller device.

[0327] Implementation of a controller 130 may be as controller circuitry. The controller 130 may be implemented in hardware alone, have certain aspects in software including firmware alone or can be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0328] As illustrated in Fig 11 the controller 130 may be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functionality, for example, by using executable instructions 136 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 132 that may be stored on a machine readable storage medium (disk, memory etc.) to be executed by such a processor 132.

[0329] The processor 132 is configured to read from and write to the memory 134. The processor 132 may also comprise an output interface via which data and / or commands are output by the processor 132 and an input interface via which data and / or commands are input to the processor 132.

[0330] The memory 134 stores instructions, program, or code 136 that controls the operation of the apparatus 130 when loaded into the processor 132. The computer program instructions, program or code 136, provide the logic and routines that enables the apparatus 130 to perform the methods illustrated in the accompanying FIGs. The processor 132 by reading the memory 134 is configured to load and execute the instructions, program, or code 136.

[0331] The apparatus 130 comprises: at least one processor 132; and at least one memory 134 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 132, cause the apparatus at least to: receive, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmit UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receive configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0332] The apparatus 130 comprises: at least one processor 132; and at least one memory 134 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 132, cause the apparatus at least to: transmit towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receive, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determine configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmit the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0333] The apparatus 130 comprises: at least one processor 132; and at least one memory 134 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 132, cause the apparatus at least to: receive, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmit UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of UE types; and receive configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0334] The apparatus 130 comprises: at least one processor 132; and at least one memory 134 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 132, cause the apparatus at least to: transmit towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receive, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178; determine configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmit the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0335] The apparatus 130 comprises: at least one processor 132; and at least one memory 134 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 132, cause the apparatus at least to: receive, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; determine UE capability information 174 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types based on the evaluation; transmit the determined UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120; and receive configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0336] As illustrated in Fig 11, the instructions, program, or code 136 may arrive at the apparatus 130 via any suitable delivery mechanism 162. The delivery mechanism 162 may be, for example, a machine readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a record medium such as a Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) or a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or a solid-state memory, an article of manufacture that comprises or tangibly embodies the computer program 136. The delivery mechanism may be a signal configured to reliably transfer the computer program 136. The apparatus 130 may propagate or transmit the computer program 136 as a computer data signal.

[0337] The term “non-transitory” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal ) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0338] Computer program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following or for performing at least the following: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a predetermined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0339] Computer program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following or for performing at least the following: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170.

[0340] Computer program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following or for performing at least the following: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; transmitting UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120, wherein the UE capability information 174 is preconfigured at the UE 170 based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion 178 and wherein the UE capability information 174 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of UE types; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0341] Computer program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following or for performing at least the following: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, 170 a request 174 for UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; receiving, from the UE 170, UE capability information 176 of the UE 170, wherein the UE capability information 176 comprises a UE type 180 selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion 178; determining configuration information 182 based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information 176 of the UE 170; and transmitting the configuration information 182 towards the UE 170. Computer program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following or for performing at least the following: receiving, from an access node 120, a request 174 for UE capability information 174 of the UE 170; determining UE capability information 174 of the UE 170, wherein determining the UE capability information 174 comprises evaluating at least one UE characteristic 186 against at least one validation criterion 178, and selecting a UE type 180 from a plurality of UE types based on the evaluation; transmitting the determined UE capability information 174 of the UE 170 towards the access node 120; and receiving configuration information 182 from the access node 120, wherein the configuration information 182 is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information 174 of the UE 170.

[0342] The computer program instructions may be comprised in a computer program, a non- transitory computer readable medium, a computer program product, a machine readable medium. In some but not necessarily all examples, the computer program instructions may be distributed over more than one computer program.

[0343] Although the memory 134 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or may provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0344] In examples the memory 134 comprises a random-access memory 158 and a read only memory 160. In examples the computer program 136 can be stored in the read only memory 158. See, for example, Fig. 12.

[0345] Although the processor 132 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable. The processor 132 may be a single core or multi-core processor. References to ‘computer-readable storage medium’, ‘computer program product’, ‘tangibly embodied computer program’ etc. or a ‘controller’, ‘computer’, ‘processor’ etc. should be understood to encompass not only computers having different architectures such as single / multi- processor architectures and sequential (Von Neumann) / parallel architectures but also specialized circuits such as field- programmable gate arrays (FPGA), application specific circuits (ASIC), signal processing devices and other processing circuitry. References to computer program, instructions, code etc. should be understood to encompass software for a programmable processor or firmware such as, for example, the programmable content of a hardware device whether instructions for a processor, or configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array or programmable logic device etc.

[0346] As used in this application, the term ‘circuitry’ may refer to one or more or all the following:

[0347] (a) hardware-only circuitry implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry) and

[0348] (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): i. a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and ii. any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory or memories that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions and

[0349] (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (for example, firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0350] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the claim element, a baseband integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device. The blocks illustrated in the accompanying Figs may represent steps in a method and / or sections of code in the computer program 136. The illustration of a particular order to the blocks does not necessarily imply that there is a required or preferred order for the blocks and the order and arrangement of the block may be varied. Furthermore, it may be possible for some blocks to be omitted.

[0351] Where a structural feature has been described, it may be replaced by means for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature whether that function or those functions are explicitly or implicitly described.

[0352] In examples, an apparatus 130 can comprise means for performing one or more methods, or at least part of one or more methods, as disclosed herein.

[0353] In examples, an apparatus 130 can be configured to perform one or more methods, or at least a part of one or more methods, as disclosed herein.

[0354] The above-described examples find application as enabling components of: automotive systems; telecommunication systems; electronic systems including consumer electronic products; distributed computing systems; media systems for generating or rendering media content including audio, visual and audio visual content and mixed, mediated, virtual and / or augmented reality; personal systems including personal health systems or personal fitness systems; navigation systems; user interfaces also known as human machine interfaces; networks including cellular, non-cellular, and optical networks; ad-hoc networks; the internet; the internet of things; virtualized networks; and related software and services.

[0355] The apparatus can be provided in an electronic device, for example, a mobile terminal, according to an example of the present disclosure. It should be understood, however, that a mobile terminal is merely illustrative of an electronic device that would benefit from examples of implementations of the present disclosure and, therefore, should not be taken to limit the scope of the present disclosure to the same. While in certain implementation examples, the apparatus can be provided in a mobile terminal, other types of electronic devices, such as, but not limited to: mobile communication devices, hand portable electronic devices, wearable computing devices, portable digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, mobile computers, desktop computers, televisions, gaming devices, laptop computers, cameras, video recorders, GPS devices and other types of electronic systems, can readily employ examples of the present disclosure. Furthermore, devices can readily employ examples of the present disclosure regardless of their intent to provide mobility.

[0356] The term ‘comprise’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use ‘comprise’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to ‘comprising only one...’ or by using ‘consisting.’

[0357] In this description, the wording ‘connect’, ‘couple’ and ‘communication’ and their derivatives mean operationally connected / coupled / in communication. It should be appreciated that any number or combination of intervening components can exist (including no intervening components), i.e. , to provide direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intervening components can include hardware and / or software components.

[0358] As used herein, the term "determine / determining" (and grammatical variants thereof) can include, not least: calculating, computing, processing, deriving, measuring, investigating, identifying, looking up (for example, looking up in a table, a database, or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, "determining" can include receiving (for example, receiving information), accessing (for example, accessing data in a memory), obtaining and the like. Also, " determine / determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like.

[0359] In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term ‘example’ or ‘for example’ or ‘can’ or ‘may’ in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus ‘example’, ‘for example’, ‘can’, or ‘may’ refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example as part of a working combination but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example.

[0360] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by “and” or “or” mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all the elements.

[0361] Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0362] Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described above.

[0363] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0364] The description of a feature, such as an apparatus or a component of an apparatus, configured to perform a function, or for performing a function, should additionally be considered to also disclose a method of performing that function. For example, description of an apparatus configured to perform one or more actions, or for performing one or more actions, should additionally be considered to disclose a method of performing those one or more actions with or without the apparatus.

[0365] Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also be present in other examples whether described or not.

[0366] The term ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising a / an / the Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of ‘at least one’ or ‘one or more’ may be used to emphasis an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning.

[0367] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or (combination of features) itself and to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

[0368] In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described.

[0369] The above description describes some examples of the present disclosure however those of ordinary skill in the art will be aware of possible alternative structures and method features which offer equivalent functionality to the specific examples of such structures and features described herein above and which for the sake of brevity and clarity have been omitted from the above description. Nonetheless, the above description should be read as implicitly including reference to such alternative structures and method features which provide equivalent functionality unless such alternative structures or method features are explicitly excluded in the above description of the examples of the present disclosure.

[0370] Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be of importance the Applicant may seek protection via the claims in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and / or shown in the drawings whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon. l / we claim:

[0371] 5

Claims

1. CLAIMS1. A user equipment, UE, comprising means for: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

2. A UE as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

3. A UE as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorized based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

4. A UE as claimed in claim 1 , 2, or 3, wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

5. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

6. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following:maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

7. A UE as claimed in any preceding claims, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

8. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the configuration information comprises information to configure at least one of the following: radio resources; at least one measurement entity; or at least one measurement determining factor to be measured.

9. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the means are configured, based, at least in part, on the received configuration information, to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement.

10. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the means are configured to at least one of the following: receive configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or receive the preconfigured UE capability information.

11. A UE as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the UE capability information comprises UE type information of the UE.

12. A method comprising: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of theUE;transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

13. A method as claimed in claim 12, wherein the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

14. A method as claimed in claim 12 or 13, wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

15. A method as claimed in claim 12, 13, or 14, wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

16. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 15, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

17. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 17, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

18. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 17, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

19. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 18, wherein the configuration information comprises information to configure at least one of the following: radio resources; at least one measurement entity; or at least one measurement determining factor to be measured.

20. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 19, comprising, based, at least in part, on the received configuration information, at least one of the following: transmitting information using configured radio resources; receiving information using configured radio resources; using at least one measurement entity; or making at least one measurement.

21. A method as claimed in any of claims 12 to 20, comprising at least one of the following: receiving configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or receiving the preconfigured UE capability information.

22. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus at least to perform: receiving, from an access node, a request for UE capability information of the UE; transmitting UE capability information of the UE towards the access node, wherein the UE capability information is preconfigured at the UE based, at least in part, on evaluation of at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; and receiving configuration information from the access node, wherein the configuration information is determined based, at least in part, on the transmitted UE capability information of the UE.

23. An apparatus comprising means for: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE; receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

24. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, wherein determining configuration information comprises determining at least one UE characteristic based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information.

25. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23 or 24, wherein determining at least one UE characteristic comprises associating the UE capability information to at least one data structure.

26. An apparatus as claimed in claim 23, 24, or 25, wherein the configuration information comprises information to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement.

27. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 26, wherein the means are configured to at least one of the following: transmit configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or transmit the preconfigured UE capability information.

28. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 27, wherein the predetermined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different pre-defined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

29. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 28, wherein the predetermined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

30. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 29, wherein the predetermined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

31. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 30, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

32. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 31 , wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

33. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 32, wherein the UE capability information comprises UE type information of the UE.

34. An apparatus as claimed in any of claims 23 to 33, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

35. A method comprising: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE;receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types; determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

36. A method as claimed in claim 35, wherein determining configuration information comprises determining at least one UE characteristic based, at least in part, on the received UE capability information.

37. A method as claimed in claim 35 or 36, wherein determining at least one UE characteristic comprises associating the UE capability information to at least one data structure.

38. A method as claimed in claim 35, 36, or 37, wherein the configuration information comprises information to configure the UE to at least one of the following: transmit information using configured radio resources; receive information using configured radio resources; use at least one measurement entity; or make at least one measurement.

39. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 38, comprising at least one of the following: transmitting configuration information to enable preconfiguring of the UE capability information; or transmitting the preconfigured UE capability information.

40. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 39, wherein the pre-determined number of UE types comprises a plurality of UE types associated with different predefined validation criteria and a UE type to be used for UEs that do not meet the validation criterion or criteria for other UE types.

41. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 40, wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types are categorised based, at least in part, on at least one of the following: energy efficiency or performance.

42. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 41 , wherein the pre-determined number of different UE types comprise high energy efficiency and low performance type, moderate energy efficiency and moderate performance type, high performance and low energy efficiency type, and mixed performance type.

43. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 42, wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: power consumption, data rate, or latency.

44. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 43 wherein the at least one validation criterion comprises at least one of the following: maximum power consumption in idle mode, maximum power consumption in active mode, maximum output transmission, average power consumption, minimum achievable data rate, maximum achievable data rate, minimum latency for data transmission, or maximum latency for data transmission.

45. A method as claimed in any of claims 35 to 44, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type index.

46. A computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus at least to perform: transmitting towards a user equipment, UE, a request for UE capability information of the UE; receiving, from the UE, UE capability information of the UE, wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a plurality of different UE types based, at least in part, on at least one validation criterion and wherein the UE capability information comprises a UE type selected from a pre-determined number of different UE types;determining configuration information based, at least in part, on the receivedUE capability information of the UE; and transmitting the configuration information towards the UE.

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