#Japan #Tokyo #Ericsson #5G Networks #SoftBank Corp

Ericsson Expands 4G and 5G Network Partnership with SoftBank Corp.

Ericsson, a leader in telecommunications technology, is solidifying its longstanding collaboration with Japan's SoftBank Corp. (SoftBank) through a new comprehensive commercial agreement. This deal aims to enhance SoftBank's network capabilities, particularly in the realms of 4G and 5G technology.

Strengthening Network Infrastructure

The latest agreement allows Ericsson to play a crucial role in supplying network products and solutions that will empower SoftBank's 4G and 5G networks. Noteworthy is Ericsson's selection as one of the primary vendors of radio equipment that will improve the quality and performance of SoftBank's network in various regions, including Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Hokuriku, Tokai, and parts of Kansai. This expansion is pivotal as it aims to fortify SoftBank's 5G Standalone coverage, integrating advanced automation and operational efficiencies driven by artificial intelligence (AI).

A Vision for Enhanced Connectivity

Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer of SoftBank Corp., expressed confidence in the partnership, stating that focusing on 5G Standalone deployment combined with AI usage will significantly enhance user experiences for both consumers and enterprise clients in Japan. Tsukuda remarked, "We are confident that adopting Ericsson's advanced radio technology will further accelerate the enhancement of our network's quality and operational efficiency with AI."

Meanwhile, Chafic Nassif, Head of Market Area North East Asia at Ericsson, highlighted the historic role SoftBank has played in championing connectivity throughout numerous technology generations. He indicated that as digitalization accelerates, Ericsson and SoftBank's fortified partnership aims to enhance end-user experiences while supporting Japan's aspiration to strengthen its overall digital economy.

Cutting-Edge Technology to Drive Efficiency

Ericsson's offerings in this new partnership include cutting-edge radio access network (RAN) products. Among these is the lightweight Massive MIMO AIR 3255, which boasts an impressive reduction of energy consumption—up to 35%—compared to previous models. Additionally, the high-capacity, ultra-wideband AIR 6476 will be provided to SoftBank, alongside the latest RAN Compute products optimized for real-time AI execution. This combination of hardware and software is expected to enhance various facets of network performance, including user experience, coverage, mobility, and spectrum efficiency while simultaneously minimizing energy consumption.

Ericsson's RAN Compute architecture utilizes its proprietary silicon and Many-Core Architecture (EMCA), which enables more efficient data storage and processing. This advancement makes it increasingly feasible to deploy real-time AI applications within the baseband layer of network equipment.

Conclusion

This strategic enhancement of the partnership between Ericsson and SoftBank represents a significant step toward modernizing Japan's telecommunications infrastructure and maximizing the capabilities of 4G and 5G networks. As both companies embark on this journey together, they are poised to not only advance their services but also contribute significantly to improving Japan's digital landscape and overall economic goals.

For more details about the partnership and ongoing developments in 5G technology, please visit Ericsson's official website or SoftBank's official site.