SoftBank Corp. and Nokia partner to research
AI-RAN and 6G Network Technologies

SoftBank Corp. (“SoftBank”) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nokia Corporation (“Nokia”) for joint research on cutting-edge communication technologies on September 10, 2024. This agreement scope includes the development of a communication system that utilizes AI aimed at the development of AI-RAN^*1 and 6G technology. Specifically, the companies plan to collaborate on the development of AI-RAN using Nokia's virtualized Radio Access Network (Cloud RAN) platform and conduct field testing using centimeter waves^*2, which are expected to be utilized for 6G.

The innovative, next-generation communication system enabled by AI-RAN and 6G could bring fundamental changes to societies and economies by providing faster and highly flexible wider-range connectivity. It could also open up possibilities for the development of smart cities, industrial automation, and even the creation of new business models.

Under the agreement, SoftBank, leveraging its deep knowledge and extensive experience as a network operator, and Nokia, with its global leadership in network technologies, will jointly lead the research and development of 6G networks to further drive innovation in next-generation communication system. The MoU aims to deliver elastic, high-speed, and reliable communication networks that contribute to the development of a digital society.

Through this joint project, SoftBank will aim to develop its expertise for the practical application of AI-RAN and 6G to address the challenges of a digital society, and thereby contribute to the advancement of the telecommunications industry.

[Notes]

1. *1
   AI-RAN (Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network): The technology enables the realization of next-generation mobile networks through the integration of AI and Radio Access Networks (RAN).
2. *2
   Centimeter wave: Radio waves with wavelengths ranging from 1 cm to 10 cm (equivalently, frequencies ranging from 3 GHz to 30 GHz). Especially, the frequency range from 7 GHz to 24 GHz, known as FR3 in the 3GPP standard, is expected to be the next new frequency band.

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