- Telstra and Ericsson have announced a four-year partnership to deploy the first programmable 5G Advanced network in the Asia-Pacific region.
- The network upgrade will enhance connectivity, double 5G capacity, and enable new monetisation opportunities through network APIs.
What happened: Telstra and Ericsson pioneer 5G network upgrade
Under a landmark four-year agreement, Australian communications service provider Telstra is set to become the first in the Asia-Pacific to deploy a high-performing, programmable 5G Advanced network in collaboration with Ericsson. The initiative will see Telstra upgrade its radio access network (RAN) with Ericsson’s next-generation Open RAN-ready hardware and 5G Advanced software. The upgrade will integrate AI and automation capabilities, enabling self-detection and self-healing features to optimise network management. This transformative step will position Telstra’s network among the world’s most advanced, resilient, and reliable 5G networks.
The programmable network will offer tailored connectivity solutions, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach. It will also open the network to tech innovators through network APIs, fostering broader ecosystem collaboration. This move aligns with the global venture Aduna, of which Ericsson and Telstra are founding members, aimed at driving innovation in digital services through aggregated network APIs.
Also read: TM Forum names Telstra, NBN veteran to lead AI mission
Also read: Telstra partners with Starlink to enhance remote connectivity
Why it’s important
This partnership marks a significant milestone in the telecommunications industry, as it paves the way for enhanced connectivity and innovative digital services in the Asia-Pacific region. The programmable network will not only improve service consistency and speed but also create new monetisation opportunities through network APIs.
Additionally, the collaboration supports the broader adoption of Industry 4.0, enabling developers to create game-changing applications that leverage 5G technologies. This initiative underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in driving digital transformation and maintaining global competitiveness.
