- Ericsson and Chunghwa Telecom sign MoU to accelerate 5G standalone rollout and lay groundwork for 6G.
- Focus areas include AI-native networks, API integration, and extended reality (XR) services.
What happened: Accelerating 5G and preparing for 6G
Ericsson and Chunghwa Telecom have entered into a strategic partnership to fast-track the deployment of 5G standalone (SA) networks and prepare for the eventual arrival of 6G. The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to unlock new revenue streams through advanced mobile technologies. Although 6G is still in its infancy, the partnership highlights Ericsson’s forward-thinking approach by integrating current 5G advancements with future possibilities.
The collaboration focuses on three key areas: accelerating 5G SA adoption, enabling high-performing AI-native and programmable networks, and opening network APIs for new digital services. Pilot deployments of 5G SA are expected to begin this year, with a large-scale commercial rollout planned for an unspecified future date. The partnership also explores opportunities in extended reality (XR), IoT, and intelligent networks, though specific details on these remain limited.
Despite the emphasis on 5G SA, the MoU hints at future 6G developments. Ericsson has previously demonstrated the integration of terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, successfully connecting a 5G standards-based call with a simulated low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite channel. This test, conducted with Qualcomm and Thales Alenia Space, signifies a step towards ubiquitous coverage and fully standardised direct-to-device services.
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Why it’s important
This partnership between Ericsson and Chunghwa Telecom is significant as it combines immediate 5G advancements with long-term 6G ambitions. By focusing on 5G SA, the collaboration aims to enhance network performance and unlock new revenue streams through XR, IoT, and intelligent networks. The integration of AI-native networks and programmable APIs also aligns with industry trends towards automation and efficiency.
Furthermore, the partnership highlights Ericsson’s commitment to future technologies, such as 6G and non-terrestrial networks, which promise ubiquitous coverage and seamless connectivity. This strategic move positions both companies at the forefront of mobile network evolution, ensuring they remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.
