SoftBank and Ericsson agree to collaborate on next-gen telco tech

Published on March 27, 2025

Under their agreement, which runs to at least 2030, they hope to unlock advancements in several key areas, including AI, cloud RAN, extended reality (XR), and 6G. SoftBank and Ericsson describe it as 'NextWave Tech' that will shape the future of cellular networking architecture.

Elaborating further, SoftBank and Ericsson said they have pledged to:

  • Evaluate the commercial readiness of cloud RAN deployment incorporating service management and orchestration (SMO) and rApps (RAN automation applications), and the integration of AI technology.

  • Establish efficient and effective network design strategies that support emerging use cases like XR.

  • Explore new ways of using radio waves that have integrated sensing and communication tech.

  • Promote the use of centimetre wave (3 GHz-30 GHz) technologies that promise to position Japan as a leader in 6G.

"Our new partnership with Ericsson allows us to explore cutting-edge solutions that will redefine network capabilities and customer experience. Our joint efforts in areas such as 6G and AI will not only enhance the performance of our network, but also pave the way for new business opportunities and technological breakthroughs," said SoftBank CTO Hideyuki Tsukada.

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