Thursday October 16, 2025

Device attribute data that keeps your business efficient, compliant and innovative.

As mobile networks integrate terrestrial and non-terrestrial architectures, visibility into device capabilities has never been more critical. This is why the GSMA Device Database and Device Map services continue to evolve, introducing new attribute data designed to keep you ahead of regulatory, operational, and technological change.

These updates go beyond simple specifications, unlocking new use cases in emergency-call compliance, satellite connectivity, IoT segmentation and device lifecycle management.

1. Emergency Call Support for 4G and beyond

As 2G and 3G networks are phased out, emergency calls are shifting to IMS-based technologies such as VoLTE and VoNR. The GSMA Device Database now includes attribute data indicating whether a device supports:
• Authenticated IMS Emergency Calls
• Unauthenticated IMS Emergency Calls
• IMS Emergency Calls with no UICC or eUICC Profiles

Use cases:
Regulatory compliance: confirm that devices sold in your markets (such as Australia) comply with emergency-call regulations.
Operator assurance: ensure only compliant devices connect to your network, avoiding potential liabilities.
Network transition planning: identify legacy devices at risk of non-compliance after 3G sunset.

2. Satellite bands and 5G RedCap bands

With the convergence and complement of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, the GSMA Device Database now classifies devices supporting satellite communication and 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability) — the emerging standard for mid-tier and IoT devices.

Use cases:
• Satellite integration: identify devices ready for direct-to-device satellite connectivity — crucial for extending coverage in remote regions.
• 5G RedCap deployment: plan, test, and launch RedCap networks with confidence by targeting compatible device segments.
• Spectrum and band strategy: optimise network planning using device-level data on frequency support.

3. UAV/UAS and vehicle TCU

Device classification has been expanded to include:
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles/Systems (UAV/UAS)
Vehicle Telematics Control Units (TCUs)

Use cases:
Automotive and mobility analytics: segment and analyse connected vehicles by type, manufacturer, and connectivity features.
• Drone regulation and airspace compliance: track and manage UAV devices for network access and regulatory control.

4. Last updated date

Each TAC record now includes a ‘last updated date’, providing a clear view of when data was last modified.

Use cases:
• Data governance: audit and track changes to ensure datasets remain current.
Operational efficiency: quickly identify new or modified records in automated workflows.
Customer support: deliver accurate information on device status and compliance when assisting end users.

From compliance to innovation

Data on these new attributes empower GSMA Device Database and Device Map users to go further — from meeting regulatory requirements to designing next-generation connectivity strategies.

Whether you’re planning RedCap deployments, integrating satellite connectivity, or preparing for network sunset compliance, device attribute data from the GSMA provides the visibility and confidence you need to act decisively.

These updates to Device Database and Device Map are part of recent enhancements to the TAC Allocation process. As industry adoption of the new technologies and features increases, the depth and consistency of available information will continue to improve.

For further information, please visit the GSMA Device Attribute Data webpage, and complete the form below. One of our representatives will be in touch.