• Nokia has opened its Mobile Core Early Access programme to the wider industry after initially working with 30 companies
  • Operators and enterprises can test mobile-core software in a hosted setup that includes network functions, radios and devices

The fact

Nokia has opened its Mobile Core Early Access programme to the wider industry, allowing telecom operators and enterprises to explore new mobile-core software in a hosted environment. The programme began in June with 30 participating companies.

The setup includes mobile-core network functions, radios and devices and is updated every two weeks. Nokia says participants can explore areas including 5G Core, automation, analytics and network exposure, with some capabilities available for direct testing for a limited period.

Initial access is guided and subject to approval. Companies that need longer access, greater flexibility or integration with their own systems can move to a paid model. Nokia has not disclosed pricing or results from the first 30 participants.

The assessment

Nokia's hosted environment gives operators a simpler way to try new core-network features before setting up a larger test of their own. Engineers can see how the software works with core functions, radios and devices, then decide whether it is worth taking further. It does not replace testing on the operator's own network. Before any feature can go live, it still has to work with the operator's cloud systems, security rules, network configuration and day-to-day operations.

For BTW readers, the useful change is that operators can make an earlier decision about which features deserve more time and investment. The clearest sign that the programme is working will be participants moving from Nokia's hosted environment into their own trials, procurement or live deployment.

What to watch

Watch how many participants move from guided access into paid testing, operator-run trials or live deployment. Named customers and completed integrations would show whether the programme is helping operators make earlier decisions about which core functions are worth pursuing. Nokia has not yet disclosed results from the first 30 participants.