Another day, another telco partnership as the world turns like sands through the hourglass – so are the 5G days of our lives.
Well, in the not-too distant future that is, as Ericsson and Orange work on "technology building blocks, proof of concepts, and pilots across Europe allowing Orange to experience 5G services and capabilities from 2017 onwards".
Orange and Ericsson say they will "develop 5G use cases and service scenarios, including technical alignment and external demonstrations".
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Use cases include:
- Wireless multi-gigabits Internet access in suburban and rural environments;
- Massive and mission critical Internet of Things supporting the digital transformation of industry and society;
- Ultra large mobile coverage solutions; and
- Connected cars.
Both companies say this collaboration "will also cover 4G to 5G solutions evolution, including energy and cost efficiencies, and use of Software Defined Network (SDN) and Network Function Virtualisation (NFV) technologies".
Alain Maloberti, senior vice-president, Orange Labs Networks, says: "Our ambition is to be prepared for a 5G deployment in 2020. By joining forces with Ericsson, we will create for our customers a solid network capable of delivering a wide range of services, from greater data speed everywhere to specialised services for cities and industries."
Arun Bansal, senior vice-president and head of Business Unit Network Products, Ericsson, says: "The Internet of Things requires network capabilities to a new level. 5G will not only be built for consumers, who need a seamless experience with their phones and connected devices, but also for the digitalisation of entire industries and society. Together with Orange, we are joining our strengths to help make this a reality.”