Low power signal

Abstract

Embodiments of the present invention relate to low power signals. In an example, a first apparatus is caused to: send a first message providing an indication of low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; receive a grouping configuration, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and receive at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS are received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

Description

[0001] Low Power Signal

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003]

[0001] This application claims priority from, and the benefit of, EP Application No. 25167012.1, filed March 28, 2025, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0004] Field

[0005]

[0002] Example embodiments relate user equipment, network nodes, methods and / or computer programs for use in mobile communications systems. More particularly, the example embodiments relate to low power signals sent from network node(s) to user equipment.

[0006] Background

[0007]

[0003] 5G systems are designed and developed targeting for both mobile telephony and vertical use cases. Besides latency, reliability, and availability, UE energy efficiency is also critical to 5G. Currently, 5G devices may have to be recharged per week or day, depending on individual’s usage time. In general, 5G devices consume tens of milliwatts in RRC idle / inactive state and hundreds of milliwatts in RRC connected state. Designs to prolong battery life is a necessity for improving energy efficiency as well as for better user experience.

[0008]

[0004] Energy efficiency is even more critical for UEs without a continuous energy source, e.g., UEs using small rechargeable and single coin cell batteries. Among vertical use cases, sensors and actuators are deployed extensively for monitoring, measuring, charging, etc. Generally, their batteries are not rechargeable and expected to last at least few years as described in 3GPP TR38.875. Wearables include smartwatches, rings, eHealth related devices, and medical monitoring devices. With typical battery capacity, it may be challenging to sustain for a period of a few weeks as required.

[0009]

[0005] The power consumption of UEs may depend on the configured length of wake-up periods, e.g., paging cycle. To meet the battery life requirements above, long eDRX (extended DRX) cycle may be used, resulting in high latency, which is not suitable for such services with requirements of both long battery life and low latency. However, a long eDRX may not be suitable for latency-critical use cases (e.g. in fire detection and extinguishment use case, fire shutters shall be closed and fire sprinklers shall be turned on by the actuators within 1 to 2 seconds from the time the fire is detected by sensors, long eDRX cycle cannot meet such delay requirements.

[0010]

[0006] There remains a need for improvement in overall power saving techniques (UE power saving and / or network power saving).

[0011] Summary

[0012]

[0007] The scope of protection sought for various embodiments of the invention is set out by the independent claims. The embodiments and features, if any, described in this specification that do not fallunder the scope of the independent claims are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various embodiments of the invention.

[0013]

[0008] According to a first aspect, the specification describes a first apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to: send a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; receive a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and receive, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0014]

[0009] In some examples, the power configuration indicates that the first subgroup is associated with at least one of: a first transmission power; a second transmission power, wherein the second transmission power is boosted in relation to the first transmission power; or an offset to the first transmission power and / or an offset to a preceding transmission power.

[0015]

[0010] In some examples, the instructions further cause the first apparatus to activate a main radio (MR) module at least for paging channel (PCH) or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) monitoring in response to receiving the LP-WUS.

[0016] [Oil] In some examples, the instructions further cause the first apparatus to perform signal measurements in response to receiving the LP-SS, wherein performing the signal measurements is based at least in part on the power configuration.

[0017]

[0012] In some examples, the first subgroup comprises UEs having one or more of: substantially similar LR capabilities; substantially similar LR type; or LR receiver performance metrics within a first range, higher than a first threshold, or lower than a second threshold.

[0018]

[0013] In some examples, the grouping configuration is received via at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling; physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0019]

[0014] In some examples, the first message provides the indication of the LR capability by including information relating to at least one of: LR type or LR performance metrics.

[0020]

[0015] In some examples, the first apparatus is in an idle mode or inactive mode.

[0021]

[0016] In some examples, the plurality of subgroups of UE belong to a group of UEs that monitor a same paging occasion.

[0017] According to a second aspect, this specification describes a method, performed at a first apparatus, comprising: sending a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of a low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; receiving a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and receiving, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0022]

[0018] In some examples, the power configuration indicates that the first subgroup is associated with at least one of: a first transmission power; a second transmission power, wherein the second transmission power is boosted in relation to the first transmission power; or an offset to the first transmission power and / or an offset to a preceding transmission power.

[0023]

[0019] In some examples, the method further comprises activating a main radio (MR) module at least for paging channel (PCH) or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) monitoring in response to receiving the LP-WUS.

[0024]

[0020] In some examples, the method further comprises performing signal measurements in response to receiving the LP-SS, wherein performing the signal measurements is based at least in part on the power configuration.

[0025]

[0021] In some examples, the first subgroup comprises UEs having one or more of: substantially similar LR capabilities; substantially similar LR type; or LR receiver performance metrics within a first range, higher than a first threshold, or lower than a second threshold.

[0026]

[0022] In some examples, the grouping configuration is received via at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling; physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0027]

[0023] In some examples, the first message provides the indication of the LR capability by including information relating to at least one of: LR type or LR performance metrics.

[0028]

[0024] In some examples, the first apparatus is in an idle mode or inactive mode.

[0029]

[0025] In some examples, the plurality of subgroups of UE belong to a group of UEs that monitor a same paging occasion.

[0030]

[0026] According to a third aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising a set of instructions which, when executed on an apparatus, is configured to cause the apparatus to carry out the method of any preceding method definition.

[0027] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing a method, comprising: sending a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of a low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; receiving a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and receiving, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0031]

[0028] The program instructions of the fourth aspect may also perform operations according to any preceding method definition of the second aspect.

[0032]

[0029] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising: means for sending a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of a low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; means for receiving a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and means for receiving, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0033]

[0030] According to a sixth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus configured to perform any method as described with reference to the second aspect.

[0034]

[0031] According to a seventh aspect, this specification describes an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to perform operations according to any preceding method definition of the second aspect.

[0035]

[0032] According to an eighth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus comprising: a first module configured to send a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus; a second module configured to receive a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs,wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; and a third module configured to receive, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0036]

[0033] According to a ninth aspect, this specification describes a second apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second apparatus to: determine low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus; group the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus; determine a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup; send a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; and send, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

[0037]

[0034] In some examples, the transmission power is initially a first transmission power.

[0038]

[0035] In some examples, determining the LR capability comprises one or more of: receiving the LR capability from the respective at least one first apparatus; or determining the LR capability based, at least in part, on an LR type, and / or LR performance metrics of the at least one first apparatus.

[0039]

[0036] In some examples, the instructions further cause the second apparatus to: store at least one of an identity information for the at least one first apparatus or information of the first group associated with the at least one first apparatus; and apply the transmission power associated with the first power configuration for transmission of one or more subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

[0040]

[0037] In some examples, the instructions further cause the second apparatus to: determine whether the LR capability indicates at least a LR of the first apparatus having performance metrics lower than a first threshold; and if the LR capability indicates the LR having performance metrics lower than the first threshold, then determining the transmission power to be a boosted transmission power.

[0041]

[0038] In some examples, the grouping information indicates one or more of a value of the transmission power, an offset value relative to a first transmission power and / or a preceding transmission power.

[0042]

[0039] In some examples, the grouping configuration is comprised in in at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling; physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0040] In some examples, the instructions further cause the second apparatus to: determine whether or not the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is received by the at least one first apparatus using the first transmission power; if it is determined that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is not received by the at least one first apparatus, increase power level for transmission of subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS to a boosted power level; and retransmitting the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS using a transmission power corresponding to the boosted power level.

[0043]

[0041] In some examples, the increase in power level is performed incrementally from a starting power level by one or more increments for one or more subsequent retransmissions of the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS, wherein the starting power level determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration.

[0044]

[0042] In some examples, the value(s) of the one or more increments is determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration.

[0045]

[0043] In some examples, the starting power level is the first transmission power.

[0046]

[0044] In some examples, the increase in power level is performed if the retransmitting corresponds to a new discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle.

[0047]

[0045] I n some examples, the power configuration sent to the at least one first apparatus comprises an indication of at least one of the starting power level, or value(s) corresponding to the one or more increments.

[0048]

[0046] In some examples, value(s) of the one or more increments in power level are increased with each subsequent retransmission.

[0049]

[0047] In some examples, the retransmitting is performed for one or more of the at least one first apparatus in the first subgroup.

[0050]

[0048] In some examples, the first apparatus is a user equipment (UE), and the second apparatus is a base station (gNB).

[0051]

[0049] In some examples, the plurality of subgroups of UE belong to a group of UEs that are configured to monitor a same paging occasion.

[0052]

[0050] According to a tenth aspect, this specification describes a method, performed at a second apparatus, comprising: determining low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus; grouping the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus; determining a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup; sending a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; and sending, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and afirst low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

[0053]

[0051] In some examples, the transmission power is initially a first transmission power.

[0054]

[0052] In some examples, determining the LR capability comprises one or more of: receiving the LR capability from the respective at least one first apparatus; or determining the LR capability based, at least in part, on an LR type, and / or LR performance metrics of the at least one first apparatus.

[0055]

[0053] In some examples, the method further comprises storing at least one of an identity information for the at least one first apparatus or information of the first group associated with the at least one first apparatus; and apply the transmission power associated with the first power configuration for transmission of one or more subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

[0056]

[0054] In some examples, the method further comprises determining whether the LR capability indicates at least a LR of the first apparatus having performance metrics lower than a first threshold; and if the LR capability indicates the LR having performance metrics lower than the first threshold, then determining the transmission power to be a boosted transmission power.

[0057]

[0055] In some examples, the grouping information indicates one or more of a value of the transmission power, an offset value relative to a first transmission power and / or a preceding transmission power.

[0058]

[0056] In some examples, the grouping configuration is comprised in in at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling; physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0059]

[0057] In some examples, the method further comprises determining whether or not the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is received by the at least one first apparatus using the first transmission power; if it is determined that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is not received by the at least one first apparatus, increase power level for transmission of subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS to a boosted power level; and retransmitting the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS using a transmission power corresponding to the boosted power level.

[0060]

[0058] In some examples, the increase in power level is performed incrementally from a starting power level by one or more increments for one or more subsequent retransmissions of the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS, wherein the starting power level determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration.

[0061]

[0059] In some examples, the value(s) of the one or more increments is determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration.

[0062]

[0060] In some examples, the starting power level is the first transmission power.

[0063]

[0061] In some examples, the increase in power level is performed if the retransmitting corresponds to a new discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle.

[0062] I n some examples, the power configuration sent to the at least one first apparatus comprises an indication of at least one of the starting power level, or value(s) corresponding to the one or more increments.

[0064]

[0063] In some examples, value(s) of the one or more increments in power level are increased with each subsequent retransmission.

[0065]

[0064] In some examples, the retransmitting is performed for one or more of the at least one first apparatus in the first subgroup.

[0066]

[0065] In some examples, the first apparatus is a user equipment (UE), and the second apparatus is a base station (gNB).

[0067]

[0066] In some examples, the plurality of subgroups of UE belong to a group of UEs that are configured to monitor a same paging occasion.

[0068]

[0067] According to a eleventh aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising a set of instructions which, when executed on an apparatus, is configured to cause the apparatus to carry out the method of any preceding method definition according to the tenth aspect.

[0069]

[0068] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon for performing a method, comprising: determining low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus; grouping the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus; determining a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup; sending a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; and sending, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

[0070]

[0069] The program instructions of the twelfth aspect may also perform operations according to any preceding method definition of the tenth aspect.

[0071]

[0070] According to a thirteenth aspect, there is provided an apparatus comprising: means for determining low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus; means for grouping the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus; means for determining a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup; means for sending a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, andwherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; and means for sending, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

[0072]

[0071] According to a fourteenth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus configured to perform any method as described with reference to the tenth aspect.

[0073]

[0072] According to a fifteenth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code which, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to perform operations according to any preceding method definition of the tenth aspect.

[0074]

[0073] According to a sixteenth aspect, this specification describes an apparatus comprising: a first module configured to determine low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus; a second module configured to group the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus; a third module configured to determine a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup; a fourth module configured to send a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; and a fifth module configured to send, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

[0075] Brief Description of Drawings

[0076]

[0074] Example embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0077]

[0075] FIGs. 1 to 2 are a block diagrams a system in accordance with example embodiments;

[0078]

[0076] FIGs. 3 to 8 are flowcharts of algorithms in accordance with example embodiments;

[0079]

[0077] FIG. 9 is a message flow in accordance with an example embodiment;

[0080]

[0078] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a system that may be used to implement one or more of the example embodiments; and

[0081]

[0079] FIG. 11 shows tangible media for storing computer-readable code which when run by a computer may perform methods according to example embodiments described herein.

[0082] Detailed Description

[0080] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example system, indicated generally by the reference numeral 10, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0083]

[0081] System 10 shows a base station 11 (e.g. network node or gNB) and a plurality of user equipment (UE) that may be part of a radio access network (RAN) associated with the base station 11. For example, the plurality of UEs may comprise a first group of UEs 12 and a second group of UEs 13. In one example, the UEs may be grouped into the first group 12 and the second group 13 based on which paging occasion they monitor. For example, the first group of UEs 12 may monitor a same first paging occasion, while the second group of UEs 13 may monitor a same second paging occasion. The first group of UEs may further be grouped into a plurality of subgroups, such as subgroup 14 (UEs 14a, 14b, 14c), and subgroup 15 (UEs 15a, 15b, 15c, 15d). In one example, the subgroups may be formed based on either a core network controlled subgrouping or UE identity (UE ID) based subgrouping. A radio resource control (RRC) state (e.g. RRCJDLE or RRCJNACTIVE state) may not have any impacton which subgroup the UE belongs to. The example embodiments below provide further examples of how the UEs of a specific group (e.g. group 12) may be grouped into subgroups, and how the subgrouping may assist in overall power saving.

[0084]

[0082] A 3GPP Rel-18 study item titled "Study on low-power wake up signal and receiver for NR" includes several investigations relating to a low-power wake-up signal and receiver, including power saving benefit, coverage, system overhead impact, network energy impact and other related aspects. The study item also included investigations about the receiver architecture for low-power wake-up receiver (LP-WUR) and analysis for power consumption, noise figure and etc.

[0085]

[0083] In radio resource control (RRC) I DLE / INACTIVE modes, it is observed that significant UE power saving gain (up to more than 90%) is obtained by using LP-WUS / WUR (low power wake-up signal / low power wake-up receiver) to trigger UE MR (mobile receiver) paging monitoring compared with existing I-DRX (idle-mode DRX) operation (with and without PEI (paging early indication)), if sufficient relaxation to MR RRM measurement is applied. Further, compared with existing eDRX operation, significant paging latency reduction and moderate UE power saving gain is observed, if LP-WUS monitoring and the corresponding paging monitoring after MR wake-up is performed not restricted within existing PTW (paging time window) of eDRX.

[0086]

[0084] In RRC CONNECTED mode, it’s observed that moderate UE power saving gain (up to more than 10%) is obtained with marginal impact to capacity by using LP-WUS / WUR to trigger UE MR PDCCH monitoring compared with existing UE power saving techniques, across different types of XR (extended reality) traffic and system load scenarios. It’s also observed that significant UE power saving gain (up to more than 60%) and moderate UPT (user perceived throughput) improvement (up to more than 10%) is obtained for FTP (file transfer protocol) and IM traffic, when the UE MR enters deep sleep state during LR LP-WUS monitoring.

[0085] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of a system, indicated generally with the reference numeral 20, in accordance with an example embodiment. The system 20 shows a UE in a first stage 21a, and in a second stage 21 b. The UE comprises a main radio (MR) module 22 and a low power receiver (LR) module 23, such as an ultra-low power wake-up receiver. In some examples, the LR module 23 may be implemented using at least part of the MR module (e.g. with some functions, such as low noise amplifier (LNA) turned off so as to improve power saving).

[0087]

[0086] In the first stage 21a, the MR module 22 may be in a sleep mode (or may be powered off) for power saving purposes. The LR module 23 may monitor for a wake-up signal (e.g. low power wake up signal (LP-WUS)) from a network node. The wake up signal, such as a low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) may be received from a network node (e.g. gNB) and detected by the LR module 23. When the LP-WUS is detected, the LR module 23 may trigger the MR module 22 to be activated / to wake-up in an event driven manner, as shown in stage 21 b. When a UE receives the WUS, the WUS receiver can trigger the wake-up of an ordinary new radio (NR) transceiver (i.e. MR 22) and communication can start between the UE and the network. Thus, the ultra-low power receiver wakes up the main radio and otherwise, the main radio is OFF or kept in a deep sleep mode. In one example, the low-power wake-up receiver may be operated in an always ‘on’ manner with very low power consumption.

[0088]

[0087] In one example, serving cell evaluations may be performed by the LR to enable improved power saving. The LR may be capable of carrying out the serving cell evaluation related measurements based on new reference signal, low power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), or synchronisation signal blocks (SSB) depending on the LR type.

[0089]

[0088] There may be many ways of implementing the LR module 23, or there may be many types of LR modules 23. For example, the LR module 23 may be an envelope detector (ED), where the LR is only capable of detecting ON / OFF keying. The LR may not comprise an IQ branch to perform coherent / sequence detection. Such a LR module may only receive LP-WUS and LP-SS. Alternatively, or in addition, the LR module 23 may be a sequence detector (SD), where the LR may use In-phase and Quadrature (IQ) branches to perform coherent detection. Sequence detectors may consume more power due to the better accuracy of crystal oscillators (XO) used to drive the phase-locked loops (PLL). Sequence detecting LR may also be able to receive also synchronisation signal blocks (SSB) in addition to LP-WUS.

[0090]

[0089] LP-WUS may be implemented differently for different UE types. Different UEs may require different levels of support from the network node in order to reliably use LP-WUS. For example, some LRs may have noise figure (NF) substantially similar to MR and thus said LRs may be able to detect an incoming LP-WUS with a default power. Alternatively, or in addition, some LRs that have a high noise figure or low performance metrics (e.g. poor sensitivity; interference measurement higher than 18dB and / or noise figure higher than 13.5d B) may not be able to detect an incoming LP-WUS with a default power, such that the LP-WUS may need to be transmitted with a boosted power. If the network node starts to provide resources(for sending the LP-WUS, which may be broadcast signal) that are required by the low quality LRs (e.g. with 18 dB IM+NF), to every LR (e.g. including those with 13.5 dB IM+NF), this will result in wastage of the network node resources.

[0091]

[0090] The example embodiments below provide techniques for grouping UEs based on resource requirements, for transmission of LP-WUS and / or LP-SS accordingly.

[0092]

[0091] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated by the reference numeral 30, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 30 may be performed at a first apparatus, such as a UE (e.g. UE 14a, 14b, 14c).

[0093]

[0092] At operation 31 , the first apparatus (UE) may send a first message to a second apparatus (e.g. a base station, gNB), where the first message provides an indication of low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus. For example, the first message provides the indication of the LR capability by including information relating to at least one of: LR type or LR performance metrics.

[0094]

[0093] Next, at operation 32, the first apparatus may receive a grouping configuration from the second apparatus. The grouping configuration may indicate that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE. For example, for a first apparatus such as UE 14a, the grouping configuration may indicate that the UE 14a belongs to a subgroup 14 of a plurality of subgroups 14 and 15 of a group 13 of UEs. The grouping configuration may further comprise a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, where the power configuration is based (e.g. determined at the second apparatus based on), at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs. As such, for example, the first apparatus is aware of or may be able to determine what transmission power is being used by the second apparatus to send a LP-WUS and / or LP-SS. In some examples, the grouping configuration may be an information element (IE), such as a RRC reconfiguration message.

[0095]

[0094] Next, at operation 33, the first apparatus may receive, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS). The LP-WUS and LP-SS may be received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

[0096]

[0095] As such, for example, a network node (second apparatus) may group UEs based on their LR type, and / or radio frequency (RF) capabilities and determines a transmission power for a low power signal for a specific sub-group of UEs accordingly.

[0097]

[0096] In some examples, for a UE subgroup with low LR performance metrics, the transmission power for LP-WUS (e.g. for waking up the UEs) and / or LP-SS (for the UE to perform measurements, such as reference signal received power (RSRP) measurements) may (always) be a boosted transmission power, whereas for a UE subgroup with high LR performance metrics, the transmission power for LP-WUS (e.g. for waking up the UEs) and / or LP-SS (for the UE to perform measurements, such as RSRP measurements) may (always) be a default transmission power.

[0097] In some examples, the grouping of the UEs into subgroups may be performed at the second apparatus (gNB), and the second apparatus may also increase or decrease the resource allocation based on the subgroups, as will be discussed in further detail herein. The first apparatus is informed of the resource allocation, such as whether the transmission power is a default transmission power or a boosted transmission power, such that the first apparatus may take into account the amount of power boosting in order to make accurate signal measurements (e.g. RSRP measurements) (e.g. for example a UE should disregard the amount of increase in power level when measuring RSRP, as the boosted power level is not an accurate indication of the actual RSRP).

[0098]

[0098] In an example embodiment, the power configuration indicates to the first apparatus that the first subgroup (including the first apparatus) is associated with at least one of: a first transmission power (e.g. default / regular power) a second transmission power (e.g. the second transmission power is boosted in relation to the first transmission power); or an offset to the first transmission power and / or an offset to a preceding transmission power. For example, a preceding transmission power may refer to a transmission power with which a preceding LP-WUS and / or preceding LP-SS was received at the first apparatus. In some examples, the first transmission power may be a starting power level, such that the second apparatus may transmit a first LP-WUS and / or first LP-SS with the first transmission power, and in the event that the first LP-WUS and / or first LP-SS is not received or is not detected by the UE (due to low LR capabilities of the UE), the second apparatus may retransmit the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS with incrementally higher power levels (e.g. second transmission power, third transmission power, and so on) until the first apparatus has received and / or detected the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS. As such, the offset indicated in the power configuration may indicate an offset to the starting power level (first transmission power) or a preceding power level (e.g. preceding power level increment for a transmission preceding the current transmission).

[0099]

[0099] In some example embodiments, the grouping configuration is received (e.g. operation 32) via at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling (e.g. MAC CE or Random access response); physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; or a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0100]

[0100] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated by the reference numeral 40, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 40 may be performed at a first apparatus, such as a UE (e.g. UE 14a, 14b, 14c), for example, after the operations of algorithm 30.

[0101]

[0101] In some examples, the first apparatus may be in an idle or inactive mode (e.g. RRCJDLE or RRCJNACTIVE state), such that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS received at operation 33 may be detected by a LR module (e.g. LR module 23) of the first apparatus.

[0102]

[0102] At operation 41 , in response to receiving (e.g. operation 33) a LP-WUS, the first apparatus may activate a main radio (MR) module (e.g. main radio module 22) at least for paging channel (PCH) (e.g. UEin idle / inactive mode can be woken to UE active mode by LP-WUS for monitoring paging) or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) monitoring.

[0103]

[0103] At operation 42, in response to receiving (e.g. operation 33) a LP-SS, the first apparatus may perform signal measurements (e.g. RSRP measurements) in response to receiving the LP-SS. In some examples, performing the signal measurements is based at least in part on the power configuration. For example, as discussed above, based on whether the transmission power is a default transmission power or a boosted transmission power, the first apparatus may take into account the amount of power boosting in order to make accurate signal measurements (e.g. RSRP measurements) (e.g. for example a UE should disregard the amount of increase in power level when measuring RSRP, as the boosted power level is not an accurate indication of the actual RSRP).

[0104]

[0104] In some example embodiments, the first subgroup comprises UEs having one or more of: substantially similar LR capabilities; substantially similar LR type; or LR receiver performance metrics within a first range, higher than a first threshold, or lower than a second threshold. The second apparatus (network node / gNB) may configure one or more parameters based on which the UEs are grouped into subgroups. In some examples, the performance metrics may include a noise figure of the respective UE. However, the network node may not be aware of a noise figure of each of a plurality of UEs. In such a case, the network node may determine performance metrics based on parameters such as missed detection rate, false alarm rate, or the like.

[0105]

[0105] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated by the reference numeral 50, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 50 may be performed at a second apparatus, such as a base station or network node (e.g. gNB 11).

[0106]

[0106] At operation 51 , the second apparatus may determine low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus (e.g. UEs 13 / 14 / 15). In some examples, determining the LR capability comprises receiving the LR capability from the respective at least one first apparatus. The LR capability may be received from the first apparatus in a first message, where the first message indicates LR capability by including information relating to at least one of: LR type or LR performance metrics. Alternatively, or in addition, determining the LR capability based, at least in part, on an LR type, and / or LR performance metrics of the at least one first apparatus (e.g. LR type and / or LR performance metrics known by the second apparatus, such that the first message is unnecessary).

[0107]

[0107] Next, at operation 52, the second apparatus may group the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus. In some examples, the second apparatus may group a plurality of UEs into a plurality of subgroups (14, 15) of UE, where the plurality of subgroups (14, 15) belong to a group (12) of UEs that are configured to monitor a same paging occasion.

[0108] At operation 53, the second apparatus may determine a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup. The power configuration may indicate a transmission power for transmitting LP-WUS and / or LP-SS to the first apparatus.

[0108]

[0109] At operation 54, the second apparatus may send a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE. The grouping configuration may further comprise the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs.

[0109]

[0110] Next, at operation 55, the second apparatus may send, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration. In some examples, the transmission power is initially a first transmission power. Alternatively, or in addition, the transmission power is a second transmission power, where the second transmission power is higher (boosted) than the first transmission power.

[0110] [Hl] In some examples, the LP-SS may be comprised within a paging message, such as a paging message comprising the grouping configuration sent at operation 54.

[0111]

[0112] In some example embodiments, the grouping information indicates one or more of a value of the transmission power, an offset value relative to a first transmission power and / or a preceding transmission power.

[0112]

[0113] In some example embodiments, the grouping configuration is comprised, and / or sent to the first apparatus, in in at least one of: a system information update; media access control (MAC) signalling; physical layer signalling; a paging message; a previous LP-WUS; or a preamble for communication between the first apparatus and the second apparatus.

[0113]

[0114] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 60, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 60 may be performed at a second apparatus, such as a gNB (11), for example, after the operations of algorithm 50.

[0114]

[0115] At operation 61 , the second apparatus may store at least one of an identity information for the at least one first apparatus or information of the first group associated with the at least one first apparatus.

[0115]

[0116] At operation 62, the second apparatus may apply the transmission power associated with the first power configuration for transmission of one or more subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

[0116]

[0117] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 60, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 70 may be performed at a second apparatus, such as a gNB (11), for example, after the operations of algorithm 50.

[0117]

[0118] At operation 71, the second apparatus may determine whether the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus indicates a LR of the first apparatus having performance metrics lower than a first threshold(e.g. LR is of low quality, such as high noise figure, indicated, for example, by high missed detection rate or high false alarm rate).

[0118]

[0119] If, at operation 72, it is determined that the LR has performance metrics lower than the first threshold, then operation 74 may be performed where the second apparatus determines the transmission power to be a boosted transmission power. For example, if the performance metrics of the LR of the first apparatus is lower than the first threshold, the LR may not be able to detect signals such as LP-WUS or LP-SS with a low or default power level, and consequently the MR may not be triggered to activate into a RRC connected state. It is therefore beneficial to transmit the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS with a boosted power level in order to enable or ensure that the LR detects the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

[0119]

[0120] Alternatively, if, at operation 72, it is determined that the LR has performance metrics equal to or higher than the first threshold, then operation 73 may be performed where the second apparatus determines the transmission power to be a first transmission power (e.g. a default transmission power for LP signals). For example, in some scenarios, the LR of the first apparatus may have a noise figure substantially similar to an MR of the first apparatus, such that the LR may be able to detect signals such as LP-WUS or LP-SS with a low or default power level, and therefore there may be no need to use a boosted power level for transmission of the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS, resulting in significant power saving and efficient resource allocation.

[0120]

[0121] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of an algorithm, indicated generally by the reference numeral 60, in accordance with an example embodiment. The operations of the algorithm 70 may be performed at a second apparatus, such as a gNB (11), for example, after the operations of algorithm 50.

[0121]

[0122] In some examples, the transmission power with which the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is sent (e.g. at operation 55) may, at least initially be a first transmission power (e.g. default power level). For example, the second apparatus may start transmission using a default power level, and subsequently increase the power level if it is determined that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is not received by the first apparatus, as described in further detail below.

[0122]

[0123] At operation 81 , the second apparatus may determine whether or not the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS (e.g. as transmitted in operation 55) is received by the at least one first apparatus using the first transmission power (e.g. a default transmission power).

[0123]

[0124] If it is determined, at operation 82, that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is received, then the algorithm may end at operation 83 (e.g. the second apparatus does not retransmit the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS).

[0124]

[0125] Alternatively, if it is determined, at operation 82, that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is not received then the algorithm may proceed to operation 84, where the second apparatus may increase the power level for transmission of subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS to a boosted power level. At operation 85, the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is retransmitted using a transmission power corresponding to the boosted power level.

[0126] In some examples, the increasing of the power level may be performed incrementally. For example, the increase in power level is performed incrementally from a starting power level by one or more increments for one or more subsequent retransmissions of the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

[0125]

[0127] In some examples, the starting power level may be determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration. In some examples, the starting power level may be the first transmission power (e.g. default power level) or may be a transmission power with a relatively lower power boosting level (e.g. configured according to the UE receiver performance for the specific sub-group) or no power boosting at all.

[0126]

[0128] In some examples, value(s) of the one or more increments in power level remains the same with each subsequent retransmission (e.g. the increment in power level is the same each time the power level is increased). Alternatively, value(s) of the one or more increments in power level are increased with each subsequent retransmission (e.g. the increment in power level is different for the one or more times that the power level is increased). For example, the increment in power level may increase sequentially each time the power level is increased.

[0127]

[0129] In some examples, the power configuration sent (in operation 54) to the at least one first apparatus comprises an indication of at least one of the starting power level, or value(s) corresponding to the one or more increments. As such, the first apparatus (UE) is aware of the transmission power with which at least the LP-SS is transmitted, such that signal measurements (e.g. radio resource measurements, RSRP) may be performed accurately by the first apparatus.

[0128]

[0130] In some examples, the increase in power level is performed if the retransmitting corresponds to a new discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle. For example, if the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is retransmitted in the same DRX cycle as a preceding transmission, the power level of transmission remains the same.

[0129] Alternatively, if the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is retransmitted in a new DRX cycle from the preceding transmission, the power level of transmission is increased / boosted. Alternatively, the power level is increased for each subsequent retransmission regardless of whether the retransmission is in the same DRX cycle or new DRX cycle.

[0130]

[0131] In some examples, the retransmitting (operation 85) is performed for one or more of the at least one first apparatus in the first subgroup. In one example, the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is retransmitted with boosted power level to all UEs of the first subgroup. Alternatively, the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is only retransmitted with boosted power level for UEs that have not received the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS. In some examples, the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS may be retransmitted with boosted power levels for UEs belonging to the first subgroup, and also for UEs belonging to one or more other subgroups.

[0131]

[0132] FIG. 9 is a message flow, indicated generally by the reference numeral 90, in accordance with an example embodiment. The message flow 90 shows communication between a first apparatus, such as UE 91, and a second apparatus, such as gNB 92. The UE 91 may send (e.g. operation 31) UE LR capabilityinformation 93 to the gNB 92, where the LR capability information 93 may comprise LR information (e.g. LR performance metrics and / or LR type). At operation 94 (similar to operation 52), the gNB 92 to may determine a UE subgroup (i.e. group the UE 91 into a UE sub-group) for the UE 91. The gNB 92 may then store a UE identity (UE-ID) of the UE 91 to a subgroup association at an operation 95 (similar to operation 61).

[0132]

[0133] Next, the gNB 92 may send a message 96 to UE 91 that may allow the UE 91 to be released into idle mode, such that the UE may transition from an active connected state to a RRCJDLE or RRCJNACTIVE state. As such, the UE 91 is in an idle or inactive mode in stage 97. The gNB 92 may send a system information block (SIB) 98 to the UE. One or both of the message 96 or the SIB 98 may comprise a UE idle mode configuration (e.g. grouping configuration or power configuration described above), that may comprise sub-group configuration for power boosting.

[0133]

[0134] At stage 99, the UE 91 may monitor (while in idle or inactive mode) for LP-WUS, for example, using a LR module.

[0134]

[0135] The stage 100 may represent operations or processes relating to how a UE may transition from an idle or inactive mode to an active or connected mode (e.g. RRC_Connected state).

[0135]

[0136] While the UE is monitoring, at operation 101, for LP-WUS and a serving cell, the UE may receive LP-WUS with a transmission power associated with its corresponding subgroup (e.g. subgroup associated with power boosting). The gNB 92 may initiate, at operation 102, the wake up for the UE ID associated with the UE 91, which may include determining, in operation 103, that the UE 91 is in a subgroup associated with a boosted power level. The gNB 92 may then increase the power level of the transmission of LP-WUS based on the subgroup of the UE 91, and may transmit, at operation 104, the LP-WUS to UEs of the subgroup corresponding to the UE 91 with the boosted power level.

[0136]

[0137] In response to receiving and detecting the LP-WUS, the UE 91 may activate, at operation 105, the MR for paging monitoring. At operation 106, the gNB 92 may transmit a paging message comprising the UE ID addressing the UE 91, and in response, the UE 91 initiates RRC setup request and / or RRC resume procedure at operation 107. The paging message may optionally indicate power level for subsequent LP-SS, primary synchronisation signal (PSS) or secondary syncronisation signal (SSS) (e.g. power level indicated for RRC connected mode). The UE 91 may send a RRC Setup / Resume request at operation 108, and the gNB 92 may respond by sending a RRC Setup / Resume configuration at operation 109. The UE 91 may then send configuration that the RRC Setup / Resume is complete in operation 110, and may further send a paging response (e.g. non-access stratum (NAS) message) at operation 111. The UE 91 may therefore wake up, with the MR module activated and monitoring for paging from the gNB 92.

[0137]

[0138] Some of the example embodiments above describe UE behaviour in idle / inactive mode. However, the embodiments may also be applied to UEs in a connected mode. For example, the base station may configure the UE (while in connected mode) with configuration (e.g. MAC CE).Example Apparatus

[0138]

[0139] FIG. 10 shows an apparatus according to some example embodiments, which may comprise the user terminal 150. The user equipment may be, for example a smartphone, or other terminal device. The apparatus may be configured to perform the operations described herein, for example operations described with reference to any disclosed process. The apparatus comprises at least one processor 102 and at least one memory 154 directly or closely connected to the processor. The memory 104 includes at least one random access memory (RAM) and at least one read-only memory (ROM). Computer program code (software) 155 is stored in the ROM. The apparatus may be connected to a transmitter (TX) and a receiver (RX). The apparatus may, optionally, be connected with a user interface (Ul) for instructing the apparatus and / or for outputting data. The at least one processor 152, with the at least one memory 104 and the computer program code 155 are arranged to cause the apparatus to at least perform at least the method according to any preceding process, for example as disclosed in relation to the flow diagrams of FIGS. 3 to 8, and message flow of FIG. 9 and related features thereof.

[0139]

[0140] FIG. 11 shows a non-transitory media 160 according to some embodiments. The non-transitory media 160 is a computer readable storage medium. It may be e.g. a CD, a DVD, a USB stick, a blue ray disk, etc. The non-transitory media 160 stores computer program code, causing an apparatus to perform the method of any preceding process for example as disclosed in relation to the flow diagrams and related features thereof.

[0140]

[0141] Names of network elements, protocols, and methods are based on current standards. In other versions or other technologies, the names of these network elements and / or protocols and / or methods may be different, as long as they provide a corresponding functionality. For example, embodiments may be deployed in 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G / 6G networks and further generations of 3GPP but also in non-3GPP radio networks such as WiFi.

[0141]

[0142] A memory may be volatile or non-volatile. It may be e.g. a RAM, a SRAM, a flash memory, a FPGA block ram, a DCD, a CD, a USB stick, and a blue ray disk.

[0142]

[0143] If not otherwise stated or otherwise made clear from the context, the statement that two entities are different means that they perform different functions. It does not necessarily mean that they are based on different hardware. That is, each of the entities described in the present description may be based on a different hardware, or some or all of the entities may be based on the same hardware. It does not necessarily mean that they are based on different software. That is, each of the entities described in the present description may be based on different software, or some or all of the entities may be based on the same software. Each of the entities described in the present description may be embodied in the cloud.

[0143]

[0144] Implementations of any of the above described blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques or methods include, as non-limiting examples, implementations as hardware, software, firmware, specialpurpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof. Some embodiments may be implemented in the cloud.

[0144]

[0145] It is to be understood that what is described above is what is presently considered the preferred embodiments. However, it should be noted that the description of the preferred embodiments is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1. A first apparatus comprising:at least one processor; andat least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to:send a first message to a second apparatus, wherein the first message provides an indication of low power receiver (LR) capability of the first apparatus;receive a grouping configuration from the second apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises a power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs, wherein the power configuration is based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup of UEs; andreceive, from the second apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is received with a transmission power associated with the power configuration.

2. A first apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the power configuration indicates that the first subgroup is associated with at least one of:a first transmission power;a second transmission power, wherein the second transmission power is boosted in relation to the first transmission power;an offset to the first transmission power and / or an offset to a preceding transmission power.

3. A first apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the instructions further cause the first apparatus to activate a main radio (MR) module at least for paging channel (PCH) or physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) monitoring in response to receiving the LP-WUS.

4. A first apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first message provides the indication of the LR capability by including information relating to at least one of: LR type or LR performance metrics.

5. A second apparatus comprising:at least one processor; andat least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second apparatus to:determine low power receiver (LR) capability of at least one first apparatus;group the at least one first apparatus into a first subgroup based, at least in part, on the LR capability of the at least one first apparatus;determine a first power configuration for the first subgroup based, at least in part, on LR capability of one or more UEs of the first subgroup;send a grouping configuration to the at least one first apparatus, wherein the grouping configuration indicates that the at least one first apparatus belongs to a first subgroup of user equipment (UE) of a plurality of subgroups of UE, and wherein the grouping configuration further comprises the first power configuration for the first subgroup of UEs; andsend, to the at least one first apparatus, at least one of a first low power wake up signal (LP-WUS) and a first low-power synchronisation signal (LP-SS), wherein the LP-WUS and LP-SS is sent with a transmission power associated with the first power configuration.

6. A second apparatus as claimed in claim 5, wherein the transmission power is initially a first transmission power.

7. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein determining the LR capability comprises one or more of:receiving the LR capability from the respective at least one first apparatus; ordetermining the LR capability based, at least in part, on an LR type, and / or LR performance metrics of the at least one first apparatus.

8. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the instructions further cause the second apparatus to:store at least one of an identity information for the at least one first apparatus or information of the first group associated with the at least one first apparatus; andapply the transmission power associated with the first power configuration for transmission of one or more subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS.

9. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of the claims 5 to 8, wherein the instructions further cause the second apparatus to:determine whether the LR capability indicates at least a LR of the first apparatus having performance metrics lower than a first threshold; andif the LR capability indicates the LR having performance metrics lower than the first threshold, then determining the transmission power to be a boosted transmission power.

10. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the instructions further cause the second apparatus to:determine whether or not the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is received by the at least one first apparatus using the first transmission power;if it is determined that the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS is not received by the at least one first apparatus, increase power level for transmission of subsequent LP-WUS and / or LP-SS to a boosted power level; and retransmitting the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS using a transmission power corresponding to the boosted power level.

11. A second apparatus as claimed in claim 10, wherein the increase in power level is performed incrementally from a starting power level by one or more increments for one or more subsequent retransmissions of the LP-WUS and / or LP-SS, wherein the starting power level determined based, at least in part, on the power configuration.

12. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 11 , wherein the increase in power level is performed if the retransmitting corresponds to a new discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle.

13. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the power configuration sent to the at least one first apparatus comprises an indication of at least one of the starting power level, or value(s) corresponding to the one or more increments.

14. A second apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein value(s) of the one or more increments in power level are increased with each subsequent retransmission.

15. A first apparatus or a second apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first apparatus is a user equipment (UE), and the second apparatus is a base station (gNB).

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