- Ericsson On-Demand, built with Google Cloud, offers a fully managed, SaaS-based 5G core that operators can deploy in minutes and pay for as they use.
- The solution eases the burden of 5G standalone deployment, but may raise concerns around autonomy, cost predictability, and long-term vendor reliance.
What happened: Ericsson launches 5G SaaS via Google Cloud
Ericsson, in partnership with Google Cloud, has introduced Ericsson On-Demand, a cloud-native 5G core delivered as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform. This offering allows mobile operators—especially smaller ones—to deploy 5G standalone core networks rapidly and at a lower cost by using Google Kubernetes Engine and AI-powered infrastructure. The service is fully managed by Ericsson, enabling operators to roll out in minutes, scale on demand, and pay on a consumption basis.
Also read: Ericsson and Supermicro boost Edge AI with 5G
Also read: Ericsson wins major managed services contract with Bharti Airtel
Why it’s important
Deploying a 5G core network has traditionally required significant capital investment and technical complexity. Ericsson On-Demand shifts that model, reducing barriers for operators by outsourcing infrastructure management and offering a pay-as-you-go approach. This cloud-native model provides agility and cost-efficiency, though operators must balance convenience with control and potential vendor lock-in.
