Ericsson and NVIDIA Team Up on Virtualized 5G Radio

According to a recent announcement, Ericsson and NVIDIA are collaborating to allow communication service providers to build high-performing, efficient and completely virtualized 5G radio access networks (RAN). The companies said that these virtualized networks can enable faster and more flexible introduction of new AI and IoT services.

The collaboration brings together Ericsson’s expertise in RAN technology with NVIDIA’s leadership in graphics processing unit (GPU)-powered accelerated computing platforms, AI and supercomputing. The companies’ said the ultimate goal is to commercialize virtualized RAN technologies to deliver radio networks with flexibility and shorter time to market for new services, such as augmented reality, virtual reality and gaming.

“As a technology leader, we embrace openness and new platforms where we can continue to innovate and push boundaries to provide our customers with the best possible solutions,” said Fredrik Jejdling, EVP and Head of Networks, Ericsson. “With NVIDIA we will jointly look at bringing alternatives to market for virtualizing the complete radio access network.”

“5G is set to turbocharge the intelligent edge revolution. Fusing 5G, supercomputing, and AI has enabled us to create a revolutionary communications platform supporting, someday, trillions of always-on, AI-enabled smart devices,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO, NVIDIA. “Combining our world-leading capabilities, NVIDIA and Ericsson are helping to invent this exciting future.”