Synchronization procedure and signaling in a cell

Abstract

In some example embodiments, there may be provided a method, comprising: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

Description

[0001] Synchronization Procedure and Signaling in a Cell

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The subject-matter described herein relates to the field of wireless communication and, in particular to a synchronization signaling in a cell and / or a structure or design of a synchronization signal.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the field of wireless communication, a user equipment (UE) may be required to, in particular periodically, receive signals for mobility and / or synchronization purposes in a cell. However, such signals may affect network energy consumption and / or network resources. Among others, the transmission of, for example Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs) or one or more elements therein, e.g. to a UE, may occupy at least a portion of energy, time and / or frequency resources of the network. In addition thereto or alternatively, the transmission of System Information Blocks (SIBs), such as SIB1 , e.g. to the UE, may also be energy-costly for the network. Consequently, there may be a need to provide for and / or to increase network energy savings (NES) in a cell.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] According to some aspects, there is provided the subject matter of the independent claims. Some further aspects, advantages and / or features are defined in the dependent claims, the description and / or the accompanying drawings.

[0008] In a first example aspect, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), an indication indicating whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB; and monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0009] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect, wherein at least one SSB and the at least one following SSB have a different content, wherein the at least one following SSB lacks at least a Master Information Block (MIB).

[0010] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has no associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission.

[0011] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has at least one associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0012] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, the indication indicates at least one of: MIB periodicity, Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity or SIB1 periodicity.

[0013] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB includes at least one of: I) the indication or ii) data or information to derive the indication.

[0014] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based at least in part on the indication, for which of the at least one following SSB at least one of a MIB transmission, a PBCH transmission, or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission is omitted.

[0015] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: omitting, based at least in part on the indication, monitoring of at least one of a MIB transmission from the at least one following SSB, or a SIB1 transmission associated with the at least one following SSB.

[0016] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a same periodicity as a MIB.

[0017] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a different periodicity as a MIB.

[0018] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a time window associated with transmission of a MIB during which transmission of at least one SIB1 is expected.

[0019] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a number of SIB1 transmissions following a MIB transmission.

[0020] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the apparatus is a User equipment (UE) or wherein the apparatus is comprised in a UE.

[0021] Furthermore, in particular further according to the first example aspect, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising means for: determining, based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), an indication indicating whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB; and monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0022] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect, wherein at least one SSB and the at least one following SSB have a different content, wherein the at least one following SSB lacks at least a Master Information Block (MIB).

[0023] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has no associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0024] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has at least one associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0025] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, the indication indicates at least one of: MIB periodicity, Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity or SIB1 periodicity.

[0026] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB includes at least one of: I) the indication or ii) data or information to derive the indication.

[0027] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: determining, based at least in part on the indication, for which of the at least one following SSB at least one of a MIB transmission, a PBCH transmission, or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission is omitted.

[0028] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: omitting, based at least in part on the indication, monitoring of at least one of a MIB transmission from the at least one following SSB, or a SIB1 transmission associated with the at least one following SSB.

[0029] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a same periodicity as a MIB.

[0030] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a different periodicity as a MIB.

[0031] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a time window associated with transmission of a Ml B during which transmission of at least one SIB1 is expected.

[0032] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the means are further configured for: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a number of SIB1 transmissions following a MIB transmission.

[0033] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the apparatus is a User equipment (UE) or wherein the apparatus is comprised in a UE.

[0034] In a second example aspect, there may be provided a method, comprising: determining, based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), an indication indicating whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB; and monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0035] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect, wherein at least one SSB and the at least one following SSB have a different content, wherein the at least one following SSB lacks at least a Master Information Block (MIB).

[0036] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has no associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0037] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication further indicates that the at least one following SSB has at least one associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission.

[0038] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, the indication indicates at least one of: MIB periodicity, Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity or SIB1 periodicity.

[0039] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB includes at least one of: I) the indication or ii) data or information to derive the indication.

[0040] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: determining, based at least in part on the indication, for which of the at least one following SSB at least one of a MIB transmission, a PBCH transmission, or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission is omitted.

[0041] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: omitting, based at least in part on the indication, monitoring of at least one of a MIB transmission from the at least one following SSB, or a SIB1 transmission associated with the at least one following SSB.

[0042] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a same periodicity as a MIB.

[0043] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: determining, based at least in part on the indication, that at least one SIB1 is transmitted with a different periodicity as a MIB.

[0044] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a time window associated with transmission of a MIB during which transmission of at least one SIB1 is expected.

[0045] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the second example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, comprising: determining, based at least in part on the indication, a number of SIB1 transmissions following a MIB transmission.

[0046] In a third example aspect, there may be provided a non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, causes operations comprising: determining, based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), an indication indicating whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB; and monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0047] The third example aspect may further comprise one or more steps and / or features of the method and / or any one of the associated example embodiments recited in the second example aspect. In a fourth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the first, second and third aspect, and / or any one of the associated example embodiments, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0048] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect, wherein post-monitoring is based at least in part on an indication in the at least one SSB, wherein the indication indicates at least MIB transmission in the at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0049] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the MIB in the at least one SSB includes at least one of: (i) an indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication.

[0050] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ in that one of the at least two SSBs lacks a MIB and at least one of:

[0051] - a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), or

[0052] - an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0053] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates at least one of MIB periodicity or Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity.

[0054] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is a scaled version of a periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS). In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SS is at least one of: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS).

[0055] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is larger than the periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

[0056] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or the PBCH is a defined value.

[0057] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed based on additional information from at least one cell or at least one specification, wherein the additional information is indicative of a periodicity of SSBs from the plurality of SSBs which include the MIB that is used in the at least one cell.

[0058] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed while being associated with the at least one cell, wherein the additional information is provided by the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a primary cell of a network.

[0059] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or the preceding example embodiment, wherein the primary cell serves as an anchor cell for managing at least initial registration of the apparatus within the network.

[0060] In an example embodiment which may be referred to as a fourth example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed during at least one of: a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, wherein the additional information is derived from the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a secondary cell.

[0061] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or the preceding example embodiment, wherein the secondary cell is a neighbor cell, wherein the neighbor cell is a neighbor to a cell currently serving the apparatus.

[0062] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example embodiment and the preceding example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell.

[0063] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the apparatus is a User equipment (UE) or wherein the apparatus is comprised in a UE.

[0064] Furthermore, in particular further according to the fourth example aspect, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising means for: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0065] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect, wherein post-monitoring is based at least in part on an indication in the at least one SSB, wherein the indication indicates at least MIB transmission in the at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0066] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the MIB in the at least one SSB includes at least one of: (i) an indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication.

[0067] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ in that one of the at least two SSBs lacks a MIB and at least one of:

[0068] - a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), or

[0069] - an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0070] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates at least one of MIB periodicity or Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity.

[0071] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the Ml B or a PBCH is a scaled version of a periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

[0072] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SS is at least one of: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS).

[0073] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is larger than the periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

[0074] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or the PBCH is a defined value.

[0075] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed based on additional information from at least one cell or at least one specification, wherein the additional information is indicative of a periodicity of SSBs from the plurality of SSBs which include the MIB that is used in the at least one cell.

[0076] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed while being associated with the at least one cell, wherein the additional information is provided by the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a primary cell of a network.

[0077] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or the preceding example embodiment, wherein the primary cell serves as an anchor cell for managing at least initial registration of the apparatus within the network.

[0078] In an example embodiment which may be referred to as a fourth example embodiment of the fourth aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed during at least one of: a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, wherein the additional information is derived from the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a secondary cell.

[0079] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or the preceding example embodiment, wherein the secondary cell is a neighbor cell, wherein the neighbor cell is a neighbor to a cell currently serving the apparatus. In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth and the preceding example embodiment of the fourth aspect, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell.

[0080] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the apparatus is a User equipment (UE) or wherein the apparatus is comprised in a UE.

[0081] In a fifth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the first, second and third aspect, and / or any one of the associated example embodiments, there may be provided a method, comprising: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0082] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect, wherein post-monitoring is based at least in part on an indication in the at least one SSB, wherein the indication indicates at least MIB transmission in the at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0083] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the MIB in the at least one SSB includes at least one of: i) an indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication,

[0084] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ in that one of the at least two SSBs lacks a MIB and at least one of:

[0085] - a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), or

[0086] - an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

[0087] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the fifth aspect, there is provided method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates at least one of MIB periodicity or Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity. In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the fifth aspect, there is provided a method, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is a scaled version of a periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

[0088] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect and / or the preceding example embodiment, wherein the at least one SS is at least one of: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS).

[0089] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is larger than the periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

[0090] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the any one of the first and second example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or the PBCH is a defined value.

[0091] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the fifth aspect, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fifth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed based on additional information from at least one cell or at least one specification, wherein the additional information is indicative of a periodicity of SSBs from the plurality of SSBs which include the MIB that is used in the at least one cell.

[0092] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed while being associated with the at least one cell, wherein the additional information is provided by the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a primary cell of a network.

[0093] In an example embodiment which may be referred to as a fourth example embodiment of the fifth aspect, there is provided a method, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed during at least one of: a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, wherein the additional information is derived from the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a secondary cell.

[0094] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the preceding example embodiment of the fifth aspect, wherein the cell is a neighbor cell, wherein the neighbor cell is a cell currently serving the apparatus.

[0095] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the fourth example embodiment of the fifth aspect, comprising: determining a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell.

[0096] In a sixth example aspect, there may be provided a non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein and / or the fourth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, causes operations comprising: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission.

[0097] The sixth example aspect may further comprise one or more steps and / or features of the method and / or any one of the associated example embodiments recited in the fifth example aspect.

[0098] In a seventh example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the first, second and third aspect, and / or any one of the associated example embodiments, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) from a plurality of SSBs, wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, an indication whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs, monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0099] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect, wherein determining the indication occurs irrespective of MIB availability in the at least one SSB.

[0100] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB corresponds to any one of the plurality of SSBs which is first received. In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable based on any SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0101] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable both when the at least one SSB includes a MIB and when the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0102] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0103] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein at least one Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the at least one SSB includes at least one of: i) the indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication.

[0104] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the at least one PBCH is free of a MIB.

[0105] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to any one of the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the at least one SSB includes only a single PBCH.

[0106] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in connection with a Synchronization Signal (SS), wherein the single PBCH is provided in symbol 3 of the at least one SSB.

[0107] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in a symbol of the at least one SSB in which a Synchronization Signal (SS) is provided.

[0108] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein symbols 2 and 4 of the at least one SSB are empty.

[0109] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates MIB periodicity. In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication comprises a number of Synchronization Signals (SS) until a next MIB transmission.

[0110] Furthermore, in particular further according to the seventh example aspect, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising means for: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) from a plurality of SSBs, wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, an indication whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs, monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0111] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect, wherein determining the indication occurs irrespective of MIB availability in the at least one SSB.

[0112] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB corresponds to any one of the plurality of SSBs which is first received.

[0113] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable based on any SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0114] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable both when the at least one SSB includes a MIB and when the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0115] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0116] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein at least one Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the at least one SSB includes at least one of: i) the indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication. In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the at least one PBCH is free of a MIB.

[0117] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to any one of the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the at least one SSB includes only a single PBCH.

[0118] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in connection with a Synchronization Signal (SS), wherein the single PBCH is provided in symbol 3 of the at least one SSB.

[0119] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the seventh aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in a symbol of the at least one SSB in which a Synchronization Signal (SS) is provided.

[0120] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein symbols 2 and 4 of the at least one SSB are empty.

[0121] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates MIB periodicity.

[0122] In an example embodiment, there is provided an apparatus, in particular according to the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication comprises a number of Synchronization Signals (SS) until a next MIB transmission.

[0123] In an eighth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the first, second and third aspect, and / or any one of the associated example embodiments, there may be provided a method, comprising: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) from a plurality of SSBs, wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, an indication whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs, monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0124] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect, wherein determining the indication occurs irrespective of MIB availability in the at least one SSB. In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB corresponds to any one of the plurality of SSBs which is first received.

[0125] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable based on any SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0126] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication is derivable both when the at least one SSB includes a MIB and when the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0127] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0128] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a first example embodiment of the eighth aspect, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein at least one Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) of the at least one SSB includes at least one of: i) the indication or ii) data or information for determining the indication.

[0129] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a second example embodiment of the eighth aspect, there is provided a method, in particular according to the first example embodiment of the eighth aspect, wherein the at least one PBCH is free of a MIB.

[0130] In an example embodiment, which may be referred to as a third example embodiment of the eighth aspect, there is provided method, in particular according to any one of the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment of the eighth aspect, wherein the at least one SSB includes only a single PBCH.

[0131] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the eighth aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in connection with a Synchronization Signal (SS), wherein the single PBCH is provided in symbol 3 of the at least one SSB.

[0132] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the third example embodiment of the eighth aspect, wherein the single PBCH is provided in a symbol of the at least one SSB in which a Synchronization Signal (SS) is provided.

[0133] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein symbols 2 and 4 of the at least one SSB are empty. In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication indicates Ml B periodicity.

[0134] In an example embodiment, there is provided a method, in particular according to the eighth example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, wherein the indication comprises a number of Synchronization Signals (SS) until a next MIB transmission.

[0135] In a ninth example aspect, there may be provided a non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, in particular according to the first example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein and / or the seventh example aspect and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, causes operations comprising: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) from a plurality of SSBs, wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, an indication whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs, monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0136] The ninth example aspect may further comprise one or more steps and / or features of the method and / or any one of the associated example embodiments recited in the eighth example aspect.

[0137] In a tenth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the example aspects and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, there may be provided a signal or an electronic carrier, with embedded data, being encoded in accordance with an encoding process, which comprises: providing at least one first Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) and providing at least one second SSB, wherein the first SSB and the second SSB differ in content, in particular at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability.

[0138] In an eleventh example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the example aspects and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) an indication indicating that at least one following SSB has a different, in particular reduced, content; and monitoring for at least one of: a Ml B transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SI B1 ) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0139] In a twelfth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the example aspects and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, there may be provided an method, comprising: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) an indication indicating that at least one following SSB has a different, in particular reduced, content; and monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SI B1 ) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0140] In a thirteenth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the example aspects and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, there may be provided an apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) an indication indicating that at least one of: a Master Information Block (MIB), or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ), has a different periodicity than at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) in at least one following SSB; monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0141] In a fourteenth example aspect, in particular which may be combined with any one of the example aspects and / or any one of the associated example embodiments described herein, there may be provided an method, comprising: determining based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) an indication indicating that at least one of: a Master Information Block (MIB), or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1), has a different, in particular larger, periodicity than at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) in at least one following SSB; monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0142] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. A full and enabling disclosure to one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification including reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0143] FIG. 1 shows example transmissions in a cell according to an example embodiment of the subject matter described herein;

[0144] FIG. 2 shows an example signaling diagram between a UE and the cell according to the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1 ;

[0145] FIG. 3 shows example transmissions in a cell according to an example embodiment of the subject matter described herein;

[0146] FIG. 4 shows an example signaling diagram between a UE and the cell according to the example embodiment shown in FIG. 3;

[0147] FIG. 5 shows a flow chart of an example aspect of the subject-matter described herein;

[0148] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart of an example aspect of the subject-matter described herein, in particular in connection with a signaling according to Fig. 2; and

[0149] FIG. 7 shows a flow chart of an example aspect of the subject-matter described herein, in particular in connection with a signaling according to Fig. 4.

[0150] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0151] Reference will now be made in detail to the various embodiments, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the figures. Within the following description of the drawings, the same reference numbers may refer to same components. Generally, only the differences with respect to individual embodiments may be described. Each example may be provided by way of explanation and is not meant as a limitation. Further, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used on or in conjunction with other embodiments to yield yet a further embodiment. It is intended that the description includes such modifications and variations.

[0152] The drawings are schematic drawings which are not drawn to scale. Some elements in the drawings may have dimensions which are exaggerated for the purpose of highlighting aspects of the present disclosure and / or for the sake of clarity of presentation.

[0153] A "Synchronization Signal Block" or "SSB" may be regarded as a component or signaling or, it may be at least part of a signaling, that may be used in wireless communication, such as for example 5G or New Radio (NR), to facilitate a synchronization or synchronization process between a device, e.g. a user equipment (UE), and a base station, e.g. of a network. The SSB may provide signals, channels and / or information that enable the device to, in particular initially, connect and / or stay synchronized with the base station, allowing it, for example, to communicate effectively over the network. The at least one SSB may be part of a signaling in which a plurality of SSBs are transmitted, e.g. one after another, successively, consecutively and / or periodically. For example, the signaling may include at least a first SSB and at least a second SSB, which for example may be transmitted (e.g. timely) after the first SSB. This may be also referred to as a sequence or series of SSBs.

[0154] The transmission of SSBs may cost the network energy as these may occupy a portion of time and / or frequency resources. The UE may be required, in some examples, to, in particular periodically, receive SSBs, e.g. for mobility and / or synchronization purposes. Once a SSB is received, the UE is enabled to analyze its content, e.g. to determine or measure one or more Synchronization Signals (SS) included therein and / or to, e.g. retrieve, acquire and / or determine information, channels, signals and / or elements contained therein.

[0155] The SSB may include specific elements, blocks, signals and / or channels. In particular, a SSB as recited herein may be constructed from or include "Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiplexing" (OFDM) symbols, e.g. four OFDM symbols per SSB. In an example, the SSB may span four consecutive OFDM symbols in the time domain. Within an OFDM symbols, there may be subcarriers which may carry the frequency components of the synchronization and / or broadcast signals, e.g. each OFDM symbol may occupy for example 240, in particular contiguous, subcarriers (e.g. 0 to 239), e.g. in the frequency domain. The subcarriers may be divided into Resource Blocks (RB). The division into RBs may change and be predefined. The plurality of SSBs may be transmitted using beamforming techniques. It is noted that OFDM is one form of transmission that has been found efficient for state-of-the-art cellular communication systems. Future systems may employ different signal structures that still carry the SSB(s). Thus, for example and among others, instead of OFDM symbol it may be referred to simply as symbol.

[0156] A SSB, as recited herein, may include "Synchronization Signals" (SSs), e.g. also referred to as a "Primary Synchronization Signal" (PSS) and a "Secondary Synchronization Signal" (SSS). This PSS may allow the UE to detect and / or identify the presence of a cell. It may provide coarse synchronization in terms of timing and frequency. Once the UE detects the PSS, it may use the SSS to gain finer synchronization, determining more specific timing and frequency alignment. Together with the PSS, the SSS may assist the UE in, for example, identifying a specific cell ID. In an example, each SSB of the plurality of SSBs may include at least a PSS and an SSS. In other words, the PSS / SSS may be present in each SSB. In an example, the PSS may be located or included in a first OFDM symbol of the SSB, occupying specific / defined subcarriers therein. In an example, the SSS may be located or included in a third OFDM symbol of the SSB, occupying specific / defined subcarriers therein. In an example, the PSS / SSS may have a periodicity that corresponds to a periodicity of the SSBs, e.g. the PSS / SSS may always be transmitted when a SSB is transmitted, e.g. PSS / SSS may be transmitted in every SSB. The SSB recited herein may include (e.g. in addition to the synchronization signal(s)) at least one "Physical Broadcast Channel" (PBCH). A PBCH may span over a single symbol or over multiple symbols in the SSB and / or a number of subcarriers therein. A PBCH, as outlined further herein, may also be referred to simply as "channel". However, it should be noted that, with respect to the subject-matter and / or example embodiments / aspects provided therein, it may also be possible that at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs does not include a (single) PBCH. The PBCH may occupy subcarriers in the SSB which may not be used by the PSS and / or the SSS. In principle, the PBCH may be located or included in any combination of the second, third and fourth OFDM symbol. For example, it may be possible that a first PBCH is included in the second OFDM symbol and a second PBCH is included in the third (or fourth) OFDM symbol or the like. Also, it may be possible that, in particular only a single PBCH is provided which may be, in particular only, included in the third OFDM symbol, e.g. at subcarriers which are not occupied by the SSS. In such a case, the second and fourth OFDM symbol would be free of a PBCH. This may be viewed as a novel design / structure of an SSB, as "normal" SSBs may carry the PBCH in symbols 2 and 4. It should be clear that various combinations are conceivable, for example depending on the system specifications.

[0157] The SSB, in particular the at least one PBCH, may include or carry broadcast information, such as a "Master Information Block" (MIB). In other words, the at least one PBCH may carry the MIB payload. However, it should be noted that the at least one PBCH may also carry additional information, such as including part of the System Frame Number and / or SSB subcarrier offset etc. Herein, there may be two types of SSBs which may be distinguished. A SSB which includes a MIB (e.g. in addition to PSS, SSS, and at least one PBCH) may be referred to as a "full SSB". The full SSB may also include an indication, for example an indication of timing of one or more future MIBs, as recited herein. In contrast to the full SSB, an SSB which does not include a MIB, or which lacks a MIB, which is free of a MIB or without a MIB may be referred to as a "lean SSB". In addition to the MIB, it may be conceivable that the lean SSB also lacks at least one PBCH, or is free of at least one PBCH. It should be noted that the lean SSB may include at least PSS and SSS and also the indication, e.g. of the timing of the MIB(s) in the future SSB(s). In other words, while both the full SSB and the lean SSB may include the indication mentioned herein or at least data for determining the indication, the lean SSB may lack a MIB and / or a PBCH. Thus, it may be said that at least one of the MIB or the PBCH has a different periodicity than at least one Synchronization Signal (SS), e.g. the PSS and / or the SSS. In addition, or alternatively thereto, as outlined further herein, a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) may have a different periodicity than at least one Synchronization Signal (SS), e.g. the PSS and / or the SSS. This may mean that the PBCH / MIB / SIB1 is transmitted less frequently than the PSS / SSS, e.g. the PBCH / MIB are not present in every SSB instance.

[0158] Having a PBCH / MIB periodicity that is different than the PSS / SSS periodicity, in particular having a larger interval between consecutive PBCHs / MIBs, may enable the following energy saving mechanism: Because the PBCH / MIB is not present in every SSB, the base station can "microsleep" or reduce its power usage during the symbols that would normally carry the PBCH / MIB (e.g. symbols #1 and #3 in the SSB), e.g. with a larger PBCH / MIB periodicity, these symbols can remain unused in certain SSBs. In some cases, it may be even conceivable that the PBCH / MIB periodicity is smaller, e.g. or made smaller. In a non-limiting example, "periodicity", as mentioned herein, may be defined by a length of a period T or by frequency, e.g. f=1 / T (e.g. inversely proportional to period T). As such, increasing or a larger periodicity may mean a longer period T, which may result in a longer interval between events. On the other hand, it may be the case to decrease the frequency f, which may result in less frequent occurrences, e.g. less frequent events, and, therefore, also a longer interval between events. However, the aforementioned may allow the base station to save energy by microsleeping during the symbols #1 and #3 (e.g. 50 % of the SSB time duration) in periods where the PBCH / MIB is not transmitted. By deactivating the transmitter during symbols #1 and #3 of the SSB, the base station may reduce energy consumption without affecting the UE’s ability to detect the PSS / SSS and synchronize with the cell. Needless to say that there may be a similar and / or equivalent energy saving in the UE, e.g. the UE may not need to attempt to acquire, detect and / or decode PBCH and / or MIB, e.g. when it knows that the same are not present or available.

[0159] The MIB may provide configuration information which may be required to establish an initial connection. For example, it may include information about bandwidth, frequency allocation, and other parameters, e.g. required to establish communication. The MIB may be included in any PBCH used and / or in one or more PBCHs in the SSB. The MIB may provide scheduling information which may assist the UE to acquire, locate and / or decode transmissions associated with the SSB, e.g. "System Information Block Type 1" transmissions. In particular, the MIB may be read by the UE to acquire scheduling information for an associated SIB1 transmission. In some cases, such scheduling may only be acquired by the UE once, i.e. after, in particular successful, acquisition of SIB1 (or at least its scheduling information provided by the MIB), the UE may refrain from re-reading or re-reading the MIB again, e.g. ignoring the MIB transmissions and / or PBCH transmission in following or subsequent SSB transmissions. However, the transmission of MIBs may cost the network energy as these may occupy a portion of time and / or frequency resources. Since reading a MIB once may be sufficient in some instance, transmitting additional MIBs may be considered redundant.

[0160] SIB1 transmission may include network configuration information for the UE after It synchronizes with the network using an SSB. A SIB1 transmission may be regarded as a transmission associated with SSB transmission, as it follows thereafter. SIB1 may contain parameters that may assist the UE with accessing and / or registering with the network. As said, the MIB may provide the UE with parameters that specify when and where to find SIB1. In particular, SIB1 transmission may mean monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) which may provide a Downlink Control Information (DCI) scheduling the SIB1 , e.g. on the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). The parameters may include timing information and / or Information where the UE can find the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) carrying Downlink Control Information (DCI) that may schedule SIB1. Using this information, the UE can identify the time and frequency resources for SIB1 , e.g. in the Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH). After reading the MIB, the UE may monitor the PDCCH for DCI messages. These DCI messages may direct the UE to the exact location of SIB1 in the PDSCH. To this end, the PDSCH may carry the actual SIB1 content, which the UE may then decode. Once the UE decodes SIB1 , it may have sufficient information, for example, to start a Random Access Procedure (RACH), which is the next step in accessing the network and establishing a connection. SIB1 may substantially act as a gateway to the remaining system information blocks, enabling the UE to complete its initial network setup. SIB1 may include I) Cell Access Information: Information about cell selection and reselection criteria; II) PLMN Information: Details about the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), including support for multiple PLMNs if applicable; ill) Scheduling Information: Information on when and how other SIBs (like SIB2 and SIB3) are broadcast if they are present; iv) Minimum System Information: This includes access barring parameters, random access configurations, and timing information for access and registration procedures / purposes. However, in addition to energy cost related to MIB transmission, the transmission of SIB1 may cost the network energy. In particular, SIB1 transmission may be more energy costly than MIB transmission. Thus, it may be beneficial to reduce and / or remove I) MIB transmissions and / or II) associated SIB1 transmissions in a cell, in order to, e.g., enable energy saving gains.

[0161] In some cases, a MIB and / or SIB1 periodicity may be hardcoded, e.g. due to a need to retain backwards compatibility with legacy devices. In other words, the transmission of a MIB and / or transmission of a SIB1 may occur following a default and / or fixed value (e.g. periodicity value), e.g. they may need to be always transmitted, e.g. in every SSB transmitted by a base station. In other words, the SSBs and / or the SIB1 may be repeated always with the same content, e.g. in a constant and periodic pattern. However, since these values are default and / or fixed, they may not be signaled to the UE. Thus, in such cases, the UE will continue to expect MIB transmissions and / or SIB1 transmission according to these default and / or fixed values. For example, the SIB1 periodicity may be 160ms, and within each 160ms period, the SIB1 transmission may be repeated with the same content with a SIB1 repetition periodicity.

[0162] While removing (only) MIB transmission may already lead to energy saving gains and / or NES, it may be the case that the UE may utilize other resources, information or configurations indicative of SIB1 transmissions, e.g. a "Physical Downlink Control Channel" (PDCCH), e.g. acquired in an earlier instance, occasion or situation where a MIB was included in the SSB or transmitted, in order to look for, expect and / or monitor SIB1 transmissions. This may lead to a scenario where the SIB1 transmission pattern is still maintained, present and / or retained, e.g. after removal of MIB transmissions. Thus, it may be beneficial to remove also SIB1 transmissions to reduce their related energy consumption in such cases. In order to achieve, e.g. larger, network energy saving gain, it may be preferred to reduce, at least partly remove and / or minimize transmissions of i) MIB and / or ii) SIB1. In other words, there is a need to reduce also the SIB1 transmission when reducing the MIB transmission. As outlined in detail herein, this may be achieved by coupling SIB1 transmissions to happen only associated with the transmission of MIB, whereas no SIB1 transmissions may / will happen when no MIB is transmitted.

[0163] With respect to the subject-matter provided therein, it should be noted that a novel signaling and / or SSB construction, design and / or structure is suggested / provided, in which the plurality of SSBs include at least a first SSB and at least a second SSB, in particular following the first SSB, wherein the first SSB is different from the second SSB. In particular, the first and second SSB may be different as follows: i) the first SSB may have a different content than the second SSB (e.g. the second SSB may have a reduced content in particular with respect to the first SSB, e.g. in that fewer elements, signals and / or channels are included), and / or ii) the first SSB may have a different associated signaling, e.g. a different associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) signaling. The first SSB may differ from the second SSB at least with respect to Master Information Block (MIB) availability, MIB presence and / or MIB content. For example, the first SSB may include a MIB (e.g. a full SSB) while the second SSB i) does not include a MIB, ii) is free of a MIB, iii) lacks a MIB, iv) is missing a MIB v) may be a SSB without a MIB, or vi) has MIB absence or a MIB deficit (e.g. a lean SSB); or vice versa. It could be also said that the plurality of SSBs have irregular content, in particular with respect to MIB availability, e.g. MIB presence or absence. Whenever reference to being "free of" something, e.g. a Ml B / PBCH / SIB1 , is made, this may be interchangeable herein with one or more of the preceding formulations i)-vi).

[0164] As mentioned, there may be "at least one SSB" and "at least one following SSB", e.g. as part of the sequence or signaling. The at least one SSB may be the first SSB mentioned above, e.g. which is received, detected or acquired by the UE, and which may indicate a starting point of the SSB sequence / signaling, at least for the UE or from the perspective of the UE. The first SSB may correspond to the SSB received when the UE starts or initiates a synchronization procedure or when the UE is "switched on". It should be pointed out that the at least one following SSB may be the second SSB mentioned above and can either be i) an SSB which directly follows the at least one SSB, e.g. the first SSB, e.g. so that the following SSB is transmitted directly after the same; in other words, it may correspond to the second SSB in the sequence / signaling, or the at least one following SSB can be ii) an SSB which is transmitted later in the sequence / signaling, e.g. which is transmitted not directly after the first SSB, e.g. it may correspond to a third, fourth, fifth etc. SSB in the sequence / signaling.

[0165] "Determining an indication" as used herein may be understood in i) accessing, reading and / or extracting the indication from the at least one SSB, e.g. directly; in which case it may also be referred to as "receiving an indication", or ii) deriving, computing and / or inferring the indication from the at least one SSB, e.g. indirectly. As such, the indication included in the at least one SSB may be referred to as an explicit indication, e.g. if it is readable, or as an implicit indication, e.g. if it is derivable. In case of an implicit indication, data or information for determining or deriving the indication may be provided. Such data or information may be another information element to which the indication has been embedded. In such a case, the UE may first decode the information element and then derive the indication (and another indication) from the information element. It should be noted that it is not necessary to explicitly refer to "explicit / implicit" with respect to the indication(s), as this fact may simply follow from the terms alone, e.g. "indication" (e.g. explicit), or "data or information" to determine / derive the same, e.g. implicit.

[0166] The indication may be a flag or pointer which is included or encoded in the SSB informing the UE when and where to look. This may be achieved by using, for example, one or mor bits, "data or information" for determining or deriving the indication may allow the UE to interpret and / or conclude to the indication, e.g. through parameters or control information, e.g. also by using bits. For example, at least one parameter related to / indicative of frequency domain information and / or time domain location. In some cases, the indication may occupy fewer bits as compared to using data or information. Also, data or information may, in some cases, require the UE to perform at least some processing, e.g. to determine / derive and / or conclude to the indication.

[0167] It should be noted that the indication as recited herein may correspond to at least one indication or the indication may correspond to a single indication having multiple parts. In other words, there may be a first indication or at least a first part of the indication indicating a first information, e.g. MIB / SIB1 transmission times, and a second indication or second part of the indication indicating a second information, e.g. number of repetitions of MIB / SIB1 etc. "based at least in part on the indication" may, for example, mean based on one or more part(s) of the indication. In other cases, it may mean, for example, based on the indication, e.g. as a whole, but also based on additional information and / or additional information element(s), parameters or data.

[0168] The indication may indicate "whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB". As such, the indication may indicate whether the at least one following SSB contains a MIB, e.g. is a full SSB, or whether it lacks a SSB, e.g. is a lean SSB. As such, the indication may indicate that MIB availability differs in at least one following SSB. In a sense, the indication may provide scheduling information of MIBs and / or SIBs in at least one or more SSBs following the at least one SSB. This is in contrast to other approaches in which the UE always expects a MIB, e.g. in any / every following SSB. In such cases, an (additional) indication may not be necessary / present as this "expectation" may be hardcoded, e.g. in the UE, for example not specifically signaled or indicated to the UE for each individual SSB. However, in addition or alternatively thereto, I) the indication may indicate or be related to MIB transmission(s) (e.g. one or more), or MIB transmission time(s) (e.g. one or more) in at least one following SSB, or ii) the indication may indicate that at least one following SSB contains no MIB, is free of a Ml B or lacks a MIB. "Transmissions" may mean one or more transmission(s).

[0169] "Monitoring" may be understood as searching for, observing, detecting or surveilling a MIB and / or a SIB1 transmission based on the indication. In other words, the UE may be indicated whether and, where and / or when, it should monitor for the respective MIB and / or SIB1 transmission. Monitoring may take place only at times, e.g. time windows, slots or instances, which are indicated or suggested by or included in the indication. To this end, the UE may suspend the monitoring for SSBs associated with the indication indicating no presence of the MIB and / or SIB1 transmission. In other words, the monitoring may be a selective, targeted or focused monitoring, which may allow the UE to conserve power by only monitoring for (MIB / SIB1 ) transmissions when the indication indicates the presence of the MIB and / or SIB1 transmission. This may also reduce unnecessary monitoring or monitoring times by the UE.

[0170] In an example, the at least one following SSB may lack at least one MIB, and the lacking may be indicated by the indication. However, it may be possible that the at least one SSB may also lack at least one PBCH, and this lacking may likewise be indicated by the indication. In addition to or as an alternative, the indication may indicate that the at least one following SSB has no associated SIB1 transmission. Thus, the indication may indicate that at least one of a MIB transmission, PBCH, or a SIB1 transmission does not occur, is omitted, is suspended, is paused or is skipped, in at least one SSB, in particular at least in the following SSB. Likewise, the UE may omit, suspend, skip or pause detection of at least one MIB transmission from at least one SSB or a SIB1 transmission associated with at least one SSB. As mentioned, this may result in energy saving gains and / or in reduced energy consumption, e.g. both by the UE and the base station.

[0171] In an example, the SIB1 and MIB transmission may be coupled, connected or associated with each other, e.g. directly or 1 -to-1. For example, SIB1 transmission may occur based on MIB transmission, e.g. in dependence thereof. In particular, the SIB1 transmission periodicity may be the same or identical as the MIB periodicity. In other words, when a MIB is transmitted, a certain number of SIB1 transmissions, e.g. an initial SIB1 transmission and one or more SIB1 repetitions, may also be transmitted, following the periodicity of the MIB. A SIB1 transmission (e.g. initial transmission and its repetitions) may be, in particular dynamically, scheduled, e.g. by the PDCCH configured in the MIB. As mentioned above, the number of repetitions may be provided as a new indication, e.g. a second indication, or as another part of a first (and e.g. only) indication. For example, it may be indicated that SIB1 is repeated 2 times, 3 times, etc., e.g. after each MIB. Consequently, SIB1 transmission may be omitted, suspended, skipped or paused when only / just PSS / SSS is transmitted.

[0172] In an example, SIB1 scheduling (e.g. SIB1 initial transmission and its repetitions) may be determined to occur only in a time window associated with transmission of a MIB, e.g. during which transmission of at least one SIB1 may be expected. The time window may be determined based on the indication. In an example, the, in particular exact, time locations of the SIB1 transmissions (e.g. SIB1 initial transmission and / or its repetitions) within the time window may not be pre-defined. Rather, they can be scheduled in any of the PDCCH monitoring occasions, which may be defined / indicated by the indication. For example, only one, e.g. a single, time window, which includes initial SIB1 transmission and / or SIB1 repetitions, may be associated to one MIB transmission. Needless to say that for each MIB transmission a respective time window may be assigned. It may be conceivable, that the time window length is obtained by the UE, e.g. for the UE to know when to look for the SIB1 transmission scheduled in the MIB. The time window can be defined by the PDCCH monitoring occasions where a DCI scheduling the SIB1 can be received. Additionally or alternatively, the window can be defined by the number of SIB1 transmissions (e.g. initial SIB1 transmission and / or its repetitions) that can be expected (e.g. guaranteed transmissions from the network) within the time window. The number of SIB1 transmissions (initial transmission and / or repetitions) in a time window can be predefined or can be provided in DCI scheduling the SIB1 or in MIB. Each DCI of a SIB1 transmission can indicate its SIB1 repetition number.

[0173] According to an example, the apparatus may perform "pre-monitoring" and "post-monitoring", which may be understood as observing, detecting or surveilling of at least one transmission.

[0174] "pre-monitoring" may be a step of monitoring that occurs until a specific SSB, e.g. a full SSB, is identified. "Pre-monitoring" may also be simply referred to as "monitoring" herein, e.g. these terms may be interchangeable. In a sense, the pre-monitoring may be referred to as a blind monitoring because the UE may not yet have an understanding of the transmission pattern of the MIB, SIB1 , and / or PBCH. As such, pre-monitoring may not be selective, but rather a continuous or global monitoring. It should be noted that to perform or carry out pre-monitoring, an indication may not be required, e.g. pre-monitoring may be initiated any time, without any indication. Pre-monitoring may be a monitoring for each SSB that arrives, reaches, is received or acquired by the UE, e.g. once the UE initiates a synchronization process with the base station. In other words, the UE may constantly check or monitor for transmissions without relying on any indication or trigger that indicates when monitoring is necessary or when it should be initiated. Pre-monitoring may for example occur or being when a synchronization process is initiated, e.g. searching, observing, monitoring and / or listening to all SSBs that arrive at the UE, until a condition is met, e.g. until at least one SSB which includes a MIB is identified.

[0175] "post-monitoring" may correspond to the step of monitoring as mentioned herein, e.g. it may be understood as observing, detecting or surveilling a MIB, PBCH, and / or a SIB1 transmission based on the indication. "Post-monitoring" may also be simply referred to as "monitoring" herein, e.g. these terms may be interchangeable. Post-monitoring may follow the pre-monitoring and may occur or be initiated in response to the identification that the at least one, e.g. future, SSB will include a MIB, PBCH, and / or SIB1. The identification may also imply or indicate that the Ml B is received, has been acquired and / or was determined. In other words, the UE may be indicated whether and, where and when, it should monitor for the respective transmission. In response to the identification, the UE may acquire the MIB of the at least one SSB. Postmonitoring may take place, in particular intermittently or discontinuously, only at times, e.g. time windows, slots or instances, which are indicated or suggested by the indication. To this end, the post-monitoring may be a selective, targeted or focused monitoring, which may allow the UE to conserve power by only looking for (MIB / PBCH / SIB1 ) transmissions when necessary. This may also reduce unnecessary monitoring by the UE. The UE may also perform the actual step of monitoring, e.g. in addition to "initiating post-monitoring".

[0176] Pre-monitoring may be performed until at least one SSB is identified to include a MIB, e.g. until at least one SSB is received that includes a MIB, e.g. until a full SSB is received. In other words, the UE may pre-monitor a plurality of SSBs, which include full and lean SSBs, until a first SSB, e.g. a first full SSB, which includes a MIB, is received. Post-monitoring on the other hand may be performed for both full and lean SSBs (and associated SIB1), as the UE, based on the indication, knows or is indicated MIB / SIB1 transmission times, e.g. as it has been indicated when and / or where to monitor.

[0177] In an example, the indication or the data for determining the indication may be included in the at least one SSB, in particular in the MIB. The indication may indicate at least one of MIB periodicity or PBCH periodicity, or SIB1 periodicity, e.g. used in a cell, such that, for example, the UE knows when to monitor for the MIB (SIB1 ) in subsequent occasions, e.g. to ensure that the UE's System Information knowledge is up to date. This may be indicated to the UE based on the pre-monitoring step.

[0178] Pre-monitoring may be based on additional information, which is in particular received or determined, from at least one cell. The additional information may be used to assist the UE during premonitoring. Pre-monitoring may be performed in different phases or time instances, for example I) while camping or being connected to the at least one cell, e.g. a primary cell (PCell) or an anchor cell, or ii) during at least one of a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, e.g. when connecting to a new cell, e.g. a secondary cell (SCell) or a neighbor cell, e.g. being a neighbor to a cell which is currently serving the UE; or a target cell or a candidate target cell for cell switch, or in situations associated with or based on handover procedures or intersystem changes, e.g. from one system to another system. The additional information may include or may be indicative of a, in particular maximum, periodicity of SSBs, e.g. full SSBs (e.g. SSBs containing a MIB), used in the at least one cell. A, in particular maximum, periodicity of full SSBs may be for example 160 ms, or 80ms or other. In cases when the UE is already connected to a "known" cell, e.g. a primary cell or an anchor cell, the additional information may be provided, signaled or transmitted to the UE, in order for the UE to know when / how to obtain the MIB, e.g. every 80 ms. However, it should be noted that in order for the UE to be "connected to" the primary cell or anchor cell, e.g. an Remote Procedure Call (RPC) connection may be actually not required among others for this step. On the other hand, e.g. when the UE is in the phase where the UE measures a secondary cell or a neighbor cell, e.g. also referred to as cell detection phase, the additional information may be determined, retrieved or derived from the secondary cell. The same may apply during cell selection and / or cell re-selection. For example, the UE may determine a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS), e.g. PSS and / or SSS, to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell. In response thereto, the UE may attempt pre-monitoring or blind detection of a first full SSB, considering for example the, in particular maximum, periodicity provided. As mentioned, the, in particular maximum, periodicity may in addition or alternatively provided by a specification or taken therefrom, e.g. from a document in which the same may be defined or set. As mentioned, the periodicity of MIB / PBCH may be a defined value, e.g. a default value, e.g. which may be hardcoded.

[0179] According to an example, the indication may be determined based on at least one SSB from a plurality of SSBs which differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability (e.g. wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of MIB availability), whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs. In other words, the plurality of SSBs may include both full SSBs and lean SSBs (e.g. at least one full SSB and at least one lean SSB) and determining the indication may be possible using either a full SSB or a lean SSB. As such, the pre-monitoring step may be regarded as optional, as any of the plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), which differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, may be suitable for determining the indication.

[0180] In an example, determining the indication may occur irrespective, independent and / or dissociated to MIB availability or presence. In this example, the indication or the data for determining the indication may be included in the at least one PBCH. Therefore, presence / availability of the MIB may not be necessary. In other words, in this example, the at least one SSB may include at least one PBCH (e.g. which includes the indication) but the at least one PBCH does not carry the MIB or MIB payload. Although reference is made to the at least one PBCH including the indication (or data / information for determining the indication), it should be noted that the indication may also be included in another channel, e.g. in an additional or new channel or in a channel different to than the at least one PBCH. For example, it may relate to a number of subcarriers in a symbol which may convey the information / indication, e.g. related to the MIB. Thus, it may be possible to refer simply to at least one channel instead of a / at least one PBCH.

[0181] The at least one SSB may correspond to any of the plurality of SSBs which is first received, e.g. by the UE. The at least one SSB may be a SSB of any of the plurality of SSBs which first arrives at the UE or which is firstly or initially or at first acquired, detected or monitored, e.g. by the UE. In other words, the indication is derivable based on any SSB, e.g. being it a full SSB or a lean SSB. The indication may be derivable based on a SSB which lacks a MIB or which is free of a MIB, e.g. the at least one SSB may correspond to a lean SSB. However, determining the indication may also be possible for a full SSB, e.g. which includes a MIB, since the indication may be included in the at least one PBCH. This may allow that any SSB from the plurality of SSB, which differ in content, may be used. The indication may be determined / derivable when the at least one SSB includes a MIB. The indication may be determined / derivable when the at least one SSB is free of a MIB. The indication may be determined / derivable both when the at lest one SSB includes a MIB and when the at least one SSB is free of a MIB.

[0182] As mentioned above, it is possible that the SSB includes at least one PBCH, wherein the at least one PBCH may be transmitted over multiple symbols, e.g. symbols 2, 3 and 4 of an SSB. In an example, the at least one PBCH is free of a MIB.

[0183] The single PBCH may provided in a symbol of the at least one SSB in which a Synchronization Signal (SS) is provided, wherein the SS may be a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS), which may be located for example in symbol 3 of the SSB. Symbols 2 and 4 may be empty. This may in contrast to an "ordinary" or "normal" SSBs which carry a PBCH in symbols 2 and 4. To this end, this may contribute to at least some of the benefits related to NES mentioned herein.

[0184] In some cases related to 5G NR, a PBCH is included in OFDM symbol 2 (as noted above, "OFDM" may only relate to one example, it may referred to symbol instead) and OFDM symbol 4, wherein for example the PBCHs each occupy all 240 subcarriers. The PBCH in OFDM symbol 3 on the other hand may be frequency-multiplexed with the SSS. It may be beneficial to have the single PBCH (only) be provided, transmitted or included in OFDM symbol 3 of the SSB, e.g. where the SSS occurs. At least one of the other (or both) OFDM symbols, e.g. OFDM symbol 2 and OFDM4 may be empty or at least free of a PBCH. The subcarriers (e.g. resource elements) used for the PBCH in OFDM symbol 3 (e.g. 0-47 and 192-239; excluding every 4thsubcarrier which is used for DM-RS) may be used as the indication to indicate one of the following: a MIB periodicity (e.g. an explicit or default value, or a scaled version or scaling value of PSS / SSS periodicity, e.g. 20ms), a number of Synchronization Signal (SS), e.g. PSS / SSS, until next MIB transmission, or a "no Ml B"-indication in the current SSB transmission, e.g. implicitly indicating that there will be a MIB later.

[0185] As mentioned before, in this example, pre-monitoring or blind detection of a full SSB may not be necessary, as the UE can determine when the MIB will be transmitted next time based on reception of any SSB, being it the full SSB or the lean SSB. The MIB must not indicate MIB periodicity, as this may be always (implicitly) indicated in the PBCH, which may be transmitted in any SSB transmission or in all SSB transmissions.

[0186] 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). 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.

[0187] The apparatus may include a processor configured to provide signals to and receive signals and to control the functioning of the apparatus. The processor may be configured to control other elements of apparatus by effecting control signaling via electrical leads connecting processor to the other elements, such as a display or a memory. The processor may, for example, be embodied in a variety of ways including circuitry, at least one processing core, one or more microprocessors with accompanying digital signal processor(s), one or more processor(s) without an accompanying digital signal processor, one or more coprocessors, one or more multi-core processors, one or more controllers, processing circuitry, one or more computers, various other processing elements including integrated circuits (for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or the like), or some combination thereof.

[0188] The term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0189] (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry) and

[0190] (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable):

[0191] (I) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and

[0192] (II) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions) and hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0193] 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 (or multiple processors) or portion of 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 particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0194] The apparatus may comprise memory which may store information elements. The apparatus may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. For example, volatile memory may include Random Access Memory (RAM) including dynamic and / or static RAM, on-chip or off-chip cache memory, and / or the like. Non-volatile memory, which may be embedded and / or removable, may include, for example, read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic storage devices, for example, hard disks, floppy disk drives, magnetic tape, optical disc drives and / or media, non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), and / or the like. Like volatile memory, non-volatile memory may include a cache area for temporary storage of data. At least part of the volatile and / or non-volatile memory may be embedded in processor. The memories may store one or more software programs, instructions, pieces of information, data, and / or the like which may be used by the apparatus for performing operations disclosed herein.

[0195] The apparatus may be a UE or may be at least comprised in a UE.

[0196] Fig. 1 shows example transmissions in a cell according to one or more example aspects and / or associated embodiments described herein. As can be seen in Fig. 1 , there is a plurality of SSBs, including a first SSB 102 which includes a MIB and a second SSB 104 without a MIB, e.g. which lacks a MIB or is free of a MIB. As can bee seen, the first SSB 102 is different from the second SSB 104, in particular in that the first SSB 102 may have a different content than the second SSB 104 (e.g. the second SSB may have a reduced content, e.g. in that fewer elements, signals and / or channels are included), and / or in that II) the first SSB 102 has an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) signaling 106, while the SSB 104 has no associated SIB1 transmission. The first SSB 102 may be a full SSB, e.g. since it includes a MIB, while the second SSB 104 may be a lean SSB, e.g. since it lacks a MIB. As can be seen, the SSB 104 of Fig. 1 also lacks a PBCH, e.g. is free of any PBCH.

[0197] In the example of Fig. 1 , the indication (or at least data for determining the indication) may be included in the MIB, e.g. in the MIB of the first SSB 102. The indication may indicate whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB, e.g. in the second SSB 104, the third SSB 108, the fourth SSB 110 and so on. As such, the indication may indicate whether the at least one following SSB contains a MIB (s. SSB 110), e.g. is a full SSB, or whether it lacks a SSB, e.g. is a lean SSB (s. SSBs 104 / 108). As such, the indication may indicate that MIB availability differs in at least one following SSB.

[0198] As can be further seen in Fig. 1 , each SSB (s. 102, 104, 108 and 110) may include a Synchronization Signal SS, e.g. PSS / SSS, wherein the SSs may be transmitted following a, in particular constant, periodicity (s. PSS / SSS periodicity indicated by the arrows in Fig. 1). Thus, the periodicity of a MIB and the periodicity of a PSS / SSS may be different. In particular, the periodicity of the MIB may be larger (e.g. 2 MIBs transmitted in SSBs 102 and 110) than the periodicity of the PSS / SSS (e.g. 4 PSS / SSS transmitted in SSBs 102, 104, 108, 1 10). In addition thereto, the periodicity of a SIB1 transmission 106 and the periodicity of a PSS / SSS may be different. In particular, the periodicity of the SIB1 106 may be larger (e.g. 2 SIB1s transmitted in SSBs 102 and 110) than the periodicity of the PSS / SSS (e.g. 4 PSS / SSS transmitted in SSBs 102, 104, 108, 110). This may result in energy saving gains related to omission of detection / transmission of I) a MIB (s. SSBs 104 and 108, where no MIB is expected) and / or ii) a SIB1 (s. SSBs 104 and 108, where no SIB1 is expected).

[0199] Based on the indication, the UE may monitor specifically and / or selectively for a MIB transmission (e.g. in SSB 110; but not in SSB 104 and 108) and / or a SI B1 transmission (e.g. in SSB 1 10; but not in SSB 104 and 108). In other words, the UE may be indicated whether and, where and when, it should monitor for the respective transmission. This may allow the UE to conserve power by only looking for (MIB / SIB1) transmissions when necessary. This may also reduce unnecessary monitoring by the UE.

[0200] Fig. 2 shows an example signaling diagram between a UE 200 and the cell 210 according to the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1. In Fig. 2, the "SSB without MIB" may correspond to one of SSB 104 or 108 as shown in Fig. 1 , while the "SSB with MIB" may correspond to one of SSB 102 or 110 as shown in Fig. 1.

[0201] As can be seen in Fig. 2, the UE 200 may perform selective pre-monitoring 220 until a specific SSB, e.g. a full SSB (s. SSB 102 or 1 10 of Fig. 19, is identified. As can be seen, during pre-monitoring 220, also lean SSBs are received or acquired by the UE 200 (s. SSB without MIB). However, this does not (yet) initiate post-monitoring 230 as such SSBs do not include a MIB, e.g. consequently also lack a respective indication. However, once a SSB is determined that includes a MIB (s. "SSB including MIB with indication of MIB periodicity", s. SSBs 102 or 110 of Fig. 1), then post-monitoring 230 may be initiated based on the identification of a MIB therein. The post-monitoring 230 may be an observing, detecting or surveilling of a MIB and / or a SIB1 transmission based on the indication. As can be seen, during post-monitoring 230 may be a selective, targeted or focused monitoring, which may allow the UE 200 to conserve power by only looking for (MIB / SIB1 ) transmissions when necessary. This may also reduce unnecessary monitoring by the UE 200.

[0202] As can be taken from Fig. 2, the indication or the data for determining the indication may be included in the at least one SSB, in particular in the MIB. The indication may indicate for example MIB periodicity (s. periodicity between "SSB including MIB with indication of MIB periodicity" received during premonitoring 220 and SSB including MIB with indication of MIB periodicity" during post-monitoring 230). As such, the UE 200 may be enabled to know when to monitor for the MIB (SIB1 ) in subsequent occasions, e.g. to ensure that the UE's System Information knowledge is up to date. This may be indicated to the UE based on the pre-monitoring step.

[0203] Fig. 3 shows example transmissions in a cell according to one or more example aspects and / or associated embodiments described herein. As can be seen in Fig. 3, there is a plurality of SSBs, including a first SSB 102 which includes a MIB and a second SSB 104 without a MIB, e.g. which lacks a MIB or is free of a MIB. As can bee seen, the first SSB 102 is different from the second SSB 104, in particular in that the first SSB 102 may have a different content than the second SSB 104 (e.g. the second SSB may have a reduced content, e.g. in that fewer elements, signals and / or channels are included), and / or in that II) the first SSB 102 has an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) signaling 106, while the SSB 104 has no associated SIB1 transmission. The first SSB 102 may be a full SSB, e.g. since it includes a MIB, while the second SSB 104 may be a lean SSB, e.g. since it lacks a MIB.

[0204] In the example of Fig. 3, the indication (or at least data for determining the indication) may be included in at least one PBCH of a SSB, being it a full SSB such as SSB 102 or 1 10, or a lean SSB such as SSB 104 or 108. In other words, in Fig. 3, each SSB (102, 104, 108, 110) may include an indication or data for determining the indication in at least one PBCH. In addition, there may be SSBs that include a MIB (such as SSB 102 and 110) and SSBs which lack a MIB (such as SSBs 104 and 108). The indication may indicate whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB, e.g. in the second SSB 104, the third SSB 108 and so on. As such, the indication may indicate whether the at least one following SSB contains a MIB (s. SSB 110), e.g. is a full SSB, or whether it lacks a SSB, e.g. is a lean SSB (s. SSBs 104 / 108). As such, the indication may indicate that MIB availability differs in at least one following SSB.

[0205] As can be further seen in Fig. 3, each SSB (s. 102, 104, 108 and 110) may include a Synchronization Signal SS, e.g. PSS / SSS, wherein the SSs may be transmitted following a constant periodicity (s. PSS / SSS periodicity indicated by the arrows in Fig. 3). Thus, the periodicity of a MIB and the periodicity of a PSS / SSS may be different. In particular, the periodicity of the MIB may be larger (e.g. 2 MIBs transmitted in SSBs 102 and 110) than the periodicity of the PSS / SSS (e.g. 4 PSS / SSS transmitted in SSBs 102, 104, 108, 110). In addition thereto, the periodicity of a SIB1 transmission 106 and the periodicity of a PSS / SSS may be different. In particular, the periodicity of the SIB1 106 may be larger (e.g. 2 SIB1s transmitted in SSBs 102 and 110) than the periodicity of the PSS / SSS (e.g. 4 PSS / SSS transmitted in SSBs 102, 104, 108, 110). This may result in energy saving gains related to omission of detection / transmission of I) a MIB (s. SSBs 104 and 108, where no MIB is expected) and / or ii) a SIB1 (s. SSBs 104 and 108, where no SIB1 is expected).

[0206] Based on the indication, the UE may monitor specifically and / or selectively for a MIB transmission (e.g. in SSB 1 10; but not in SSB 104 and 108) and / or a SIB1 transmission (e.g. in SSB 1 10; but not in SSB 104 and 108). In other words, the UE may be indicated whether and, where and when, it should monitor for the respective transmission. This may allow the UE to conserve power by only looking for (MIB / SIB1) transmissions when necessary. This may also reduce unnecessary monitoring or monitoring times by the UE.

[0207] Fig. 4 shows an example signaling diagram between a UE 200 and the cell 210 according to the example embodiment shown in FIG. 3. In Fig. 4, the indication may be determined based on at least one SSB (e.g. one of 102, 104, 108 and 110) from a plurality of SSBs which differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, wherein the indication may indicate whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs. In other words, the plurality of SSBs include full SSBs (such as 102 and 1 10) and lean SSBs (such as 104 and 108) and determining the indication may be possible using either a full SSB or a lean SSB. As such, the pre-monitoring step shown in Fig. 4 may be performed on any SSB as shown in Fig. 3.

[0208] As such, determining the indication may occur irrespective, independent and / or dissociated to MIB availability or presence, as the indication or the data or information for determining the indication may be included in the at least one PBCH, which is included in both the full SSB and the lean SSB. Therefore, presence / availability of the MIB may not be necessary. In other words, in this example, the at least one SSB may include at least one PBCH (e.g. which includes the indication) but the at least one PBCH does not carry the MIB or MIB payload.

[0209] The at least one SSB may correspond to any of the plurality of SSBs which is first received, e.g. by the UE 200. As can be seen in Fig. 4, the a "SSB without MIB" is first received, which may be used to determine the indication and / or to initiate monitoring of subsequent MIB and / or SIB1 transmissions. The "SSB without MIB" may be the one to arrive first at the UE 200 or which is firstly acquired, detected or monitored, e.g. by the UE 200. In other words, the indication is derivable based on any SSB (s. Fig. 3, 102, 104, 108 and 1 10), e.g. being it a full SSB or a lean SSB. The indication may be derivable based on a SSB which lacks a MIB (s. Fig. 3, SSBs 104 and 108) or which is free of a MIB, e.g. the at least one SSB may correspond to a lean SSB. However, determining the indication may also be possible for a full SSB, e.g. which includes a MIB, (s. Fig. 3, SSBs 102 and 1 10) since the indication may be included in the at least one PBCH. This allows that any SSB from the plurality of SSB, which differ in content, may be used.

[0210] As mentioned before, in this example, pre-monitoring or blind detection of a full SSB may not be necessary in the example of Figs. 3-4, as the UE can determine when the MIB will be transmitted next time based on reception of any SSB, being it the full SSB or the lean SSB.

[0211] Fig. 5 shows a flow chart 500 of an example aspect of subject-matter described herein. The flow chart may comprise steps of an apparatus, a method and / or a non-transitory computer readable medium as mentioned herein.

[0212] The flow chart 500 may include the step of determining 510, based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), an indication indicating whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB. The flow chart 500 may include the step of monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based at least in part on the indication. The flow chart 500 may comprise or be combined with one or more additional steps associated with some of the example aspects and / or associate example embodiments.

[0213] Fig. 6 shows a flow chart 600 of an example aspect of subject-matter described herein, in particular in connection with at least Fig. 2. The flow chart may comprise steps of an apparatus, a method and / or a non-transitory computer readable medium as mentioned herein.

[0214] The flow chart 600 may include the step of pre-monitoring 220 (s. also Fig. 2) a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, and initiating post-monitoring 230 (s. also Fig. 2) for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs. Step 230 may be, for example, followed by an (actual) step of post-monitoring for at least one of: the MIB transmission or the System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

[0215] The flow chart 600 may comprise or be combined with one or more additional steps associated with some of the example aspects and / or associate example embodiments.

[0216] Fig. 7 shows a flow chart 700 of an example aspect of subject-matter described herein, in particular in connection with at least Fig. 4. The flow chart may comprise steps of an apparatus, a method and / or a non-transitory computer readable medium as mentioned herein.

[0217] The flow chart 700 may include the step of determining 710 based on at least one Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) from a plurality of SSBs, wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, an indication whether a Master Information Block (MIB) is to be expected in at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs, and monitoring 720 for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) transmission based at least in part on the indication.

[0218] The flow chart 700 may comprise or be combined with one or more additional steps associated with some of the example aspects and / or associate example embodiments.

[0219] While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow. LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

[0220] DCI Downlink Control Information

[0221] MIB Master Information Block

[0222] NES Network Energy Saving

[0223] PBCH Physical Broadcast Channel

[0224] PSS Primary Synchronization Signal

[0225] SSS Secondary Synchronization Signal

[0226] PCI Physical Cell Identity

[0227] SI System Information

[0228] SIB System Information Block

[0229] SIB1 System Information Block Type 1

[0230] PDCCH Physical Downlink Control Channel

[0231] PDSCH Physical Data Shared Channel

[0232] SSB Synchronization Signal Block

[0233] UE User Equipment

[0234] WUS Wake Up Signal

[0235] LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0236] 102 Full SSB

[0237] 104 Lean SSB

[0238] 106 SIB1 transmission

[0239] 108 Lean SSB

[0240] 110 Full SSB

[0241] 200 User Equipment

[0242] 210 Cell

[0243] 220 Pre-monitoring

[0244] 230 Post-monitoring

[0245] 500-700 Flow charts

[0246] 510, 710Determining step

[0247] 520, 720Monitoring step

Claims

CLAIMS1. Apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the post-monitoring is based at least in part on an indication in the at least one SSB, wherein the indication indicates at least MIB transmission in the at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

3. Apparatus according to the preceding claims, wherein the MIB in the at least one SSB includes at least one of: I) an indication or II) data or information for determining the indication.

4. Apparatus according to the preceding claims, wherein the at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ in that one of the at least two SSBs lacks a MIB and at least one of:- a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), or- an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

5. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the indication indicates at least one of MIB periodicity or Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH) periodicity.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or a PBCH is a scaled version of a periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

7. Apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the at least one SS is at least one of: a Primary Synchronization Signal (PSS) or a Secondary Synchronization Signal (SSS).

8. Apparatus to any one of the preceding claims 5-7, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the Ml B or a PBCH is larger than the periodicity of at least one Synchronization Signal (SS).

9. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims 5-7, wherein the periodicity of at least one of the MIB or the PBCH is a defined value.

10. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed based on additional information from at least one cell or at least one specification, wherein the additional information is indicative of a periodicity of SSBs from the plurality of SSBs which include the MIB that is used in the at least one cell.11 . Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed while being associated with the at least one cell, wherein the additional information is provided by the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a primary cell of a network.

12. Apparatus according to claim 11 , wherein the primary cell serves as an anchor cell for managing at least initial registration of the apparatus within the network.

13. Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed during at least one of: a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, wherein the additional information is derived from the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a secondary cell.

14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the secondary cell is a neighbor cell, wherein the neighbor cell is a neighbor to a cell currently serving the apparatus.

15. Apparatus according to any one of claims 13-14, wherein the at least one processor and the at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: determining a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell.

16. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is a User equipment (UE) or wherein the apparatus is comprised in a UE.4017. Method, comprising: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the post-monitoring is based at least in part on an indication in the at least one SSB, wherein the indication indicates at least MIB transmission in the at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

19. Method according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ in that one of the at least two SSBs lacks a MIB and at least one of:- a Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH), or- an associated System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission.

20. Method according to any one of the preceding claims 17-19, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed based on additional information from at least one cell or at least one specification, wherein the additional information is indicative of a periodicity of SSBs from the plurality of SSBs which include the MIB that is used in the at least one cell.

21. Method according to claim 20, wherein the pre-monitoring is performed while being associated with the at least one cell, wherein the additional information is provided by the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a primary cell of a network.

22. Method according claim 21 , wherein the pre-monitoring is performed during at least one of: a cell detection phase, a cell selection phase or a cell re-selection phase, wherein the additional information is derived from the at least one cell, wherein the at least one cell is a secondary cell.

23. Method according to any one of claims 20-22, comprising: determining a Physical Cell ID of the secondary cell based on at least one Synchronization Signal (SS) to derive the additional information used in the at least one cell.4124. Non-transitory computer readable storage medium comprising program instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, in particular according to any one of claims 1-16, causes operations comprising: pre-monitoring a plurality of Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs), wherein at least two SSBs from the plurality of SSBs differ at least in terms of Master Information Block (MIB) availability, until at least one SSB from the plurality of SSBs is identified to include a MIB, and, in response to the identification, initiating post-monitoring for at least one of: a MIB transmission or a System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1 ) transmission based on at least one following SSB from the plurality of SSBs.

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