Abstract: In one aspect, a wireless device sends a synchronization group identifier to a network control apparatus identifying a synchronization group of wireless devices. If the wireless device is notified that no other devices of the synchronization group are connected to the control apparatus, the wireless device transmits a timing reference to and agrees an extended discontinuous reception time period with the control apparatus. Otherwise, the wireless device receives a timing reference and an extended discontinuous reception time period from the control apparatus. The wireless device periodically enters an idle state and powers up for reception in accordance with at least the timing reference and the extended discontinuous reception time period. In another aspect, plural base stations each use a common timing reference and a common extended discontinuous reception time period in controlling the operation of extended discontinuous reception by a synchronization group of wireless devices.