Telstra has partnered with Ericsson to revolutionize Australia’s telecommunications landscape with the launch of a programmable 5G Advanced network. This ambitious endeavor aims to offer tailored connectivity services and foster innovative applications that meet the evolving demands of users and industries alike.
At the core of this transformation is the integration of Ericsson’s Open RAN-ready hardware, 5G Advanced software, and AI-powered automation. Such advancements enable the network to self-diagnose and self-heal—boosting operational efficiency and ensuring superior reliability and performance.
Vicki Brady, CEO of Telstra, emphasizes the importance of this initiative, noting the increasing sophistication of customer connectivity expectations. Brady highlights that, over the past five years, mobile data usage on the network has tripled. She states, “We are at an inflection point…requiring a step change in how connectivity is delivered and consumed.” The partnership with Ericsson will allow improved spectrum use, subsequently elevating 5G capacity and enhancing performance for users.
The programmable nature of the network is set to transform Telstra’s service offerings from generic to more nuanced and personalized. Brady explains, “With a programmable network we will move from a one-size-fits-all proposition to a more tailored connectivity experience.”
This advancement marks a significant step towards Industry 4.0 in Australia. Businesses will benefit from enhanced, secure, and differentiated connectivity, vital for pioneering next-generation use cases across sectors such as manufacturing, health, and transportation.
Börje Ekholm, President and CEO of Ericsson, expresses enthusiasm for the collaboration, asserting, “High-performing programmable networks are the building blocks to digitise enterprises and nations.”
With the deal, Australians—from independent developers to large industries—are empowered to contribute towards a globally competitive Australia. Ekholm adds, “This…will transform consumer and enterprise experiences and enable developers to use 5G technologies to experiment, innovate, and build game-changing applications.”
The upgraded network promises several advantages. It will double 5G capacity, ensuring enhanced performance and consistent service. Coverage will expand, with improved data speeds. Moreover, energy efficiency will align with Telstra’s sustainability objectives.
Ericsson’s technologies, including Open RAN-ready Massive MIMO radios and Intelligent Automation Platform, play a vital role in this transformation. Their automation tools harness machine learning and AI to optimize network performance and efficiency. Additionally, Telstra collaborates with Ericsson on Aduna, a venture aimed at advancing telecom industry monetization through network APIs.
