Massive MIMO in 5G: How Beamforming, Codebooks, and Feedback Enable Larger Arrays

Massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) is an important technology in fifth generation (5G) cellular networks and beyond. To help design the beamforming at the base station, 5G has introduced new support in the form of flexible feedback and configurable antenna array geometries that allow for arbitrarily massive physical arrays. In this article, we present an overview of MIMO throughout the mobile standards, highlight the new beam-based feedback system in 5G NR, and describe how this feedback system enables massive MIMO through beam management. Finally, we conclude with challenges related to massive MIMO in 5G.