Samsung and MediaTek Hit New 5G Uplink Speeds in Joint Test

MediaTek and Samsung are shifting focus to a part of 5G that rarely gets top billing: uplink performance. The companies have completed what they claim is the industry’s first test of a 3Tx 5-layer uplink configuration, reaching speeds of 670 Mbps. While downloads usually steal the spotlight, uploads are becoming just as critical in everyday use.

Samsung and MediaTek push 5G uplink speeds to 670 Mbps in new test

The test builds on earlier three-transmit antenna work but takes things further by stacking multiple uplink streams across different spectrum bands. It combines n66 as the primary band with dual n77 carriers, effectively balancing coverage and capacity. Sounds straightforward, but pulling it off is the hard part, and that’s what makes this test notable.

At the core of the setup is MediaTek’s M90 modem, paired with Samsung’s virtualized RAN and Massive MIMO radios. Together, they let the network juggle multiple uplink streams at once while keeping interference in check. In crowded networks, that kind of efficiency can make a real difference.

The timing isn’t a coincidence, as upload-heavy tasks like video calls, live streaming, and cloud syncing have become part of everyday use. All of this ends up putting more pressure on networks than before. Faster uplink speeds could help ease that strain and improve performance where it actually matters, not just in lab tests.

There’s still a gap between lab results and real-world rollout, so it’s too early to celebrate. But if this scales, it could address one of 5G’s weaker areas and deliver more balanced performance overall.

In a statement, Dr. HC Hwang, General Manager of Wireless Communication Systems & Partnerships at MediaTek said:

“This successful validation with Samsung represents a transformative milestone for the MediaTek 5G platform. As the needs for ultra-high-resolution cloud applications continue to surge, this technology will be a key driver for next-generation industry innovation.”

Meanwhile, Dongwoo Lee, Samsung Networks Business’ Head of Technology Solution Group added:

“By achieving another industry-first milestone in collaboration with MediaTek, Samsung continues to set the pace for enhanced uplink performance through advanced configurations. This joint test demonstrates exceptional speeds that translate into unparalleled user experiences and reliable, constant connectivity. These gains have the potential to revolutionize industries and consumer usage alike.”