5G News Round-Up for the Week Ending: 3 November 2024

Here is the 5G news round-up for the week ending November 3, 2024:

5G News Round Up for the Week to 3 November 2024

This week saw significant developments in 5G network expansion, open RAN deployments, and industry partnerships. Key themes included operators accelerating fiber rollouts to support 5G, advancements in network automation and AI, and progress on direct-to-device satellite connectivity.

Network Expansion and Upgrades

AT&T struck a major $1 billion deal with Corning to purchase fiber optic cable and other connectivity products to support its 5G and fiber broadband expansion. The multi-year agreement will help AT&T reach its goal of passing 30 million locations with fiber by end of 2025, with potential to expand to 45 million locations. This signals AT&T’s aggressive push into converged fiber and 5G services.

In the UAE, du selected Netcracker Technology’s AI platform to increase network automation, positioning the operator to meet national AI targets. The multi-year deal will allow du to enhance service delivery and customer experience as it modernises its network.

Open RAN Progress

Ericsson secured a five-year contract to upgrade MasOrange’s network in Spain with open RAN technologies. The deal will support integration of Orange Spain and Masmovil’s networks following their merger. MasOrange’s CEO called it a “decisive moment” for European telecoms, promoting an increasingly open network architecture.

Network Automation and AI

SK Telecom and Samsung developed an AI-based 5G base station optimisation technology that uses deep learning to automatically recommend optimal network parameters. The companies are conducting additional trials, including expanding the application to subways.

Ericsson unveiled a suite of 5G-Advanced software products for operators, focused on network automation, AI, and “intent-driven networks”. The offerings aim to help operators ensure networks meet business and sustainability goals.

Satellite Connectivity

AST SpaceMobile deployed its first five commercial satellites, moving closer to launching direct-to-device satellite services in the US. The company aims to provide nationwide coverage through partnerships with major operators like AT&T and Verizon.

Suggested Reading

1. MasOrange, Ericsson agree 5-year open RAN deal
Highlight: Major European open RAN deployment signals growing momentum
URL: https://www.mobileworldlive.com/ericsson/masorange-ericsson-agree-5-year-open-ran-deal/

2. AT&T strikes $1B Corning fibre deal
Highlight: Massive fiber investment to support converged 5G and broadband expansion
URL: https://www.mobileworldlive.com/att/att-strikes-1b-corning-fibre-deal/

3. SKT, Samsung boost 5G base station efficiency with AI
Highlight: AI and deep learning optimizing 5G network performance
URL: https://www.mobileworldlive.com/operators/skt-samsung-boost-5g-base-station-efficiency-with-ai/

4. Ericsson plugs 5G-Advanced software suite
Highlight: New offerings focused on network automation and AI
URL: https://www.mobileworldlive.com/ericsson/ericsson-plugs-5g-advanced-software-suite/

5. AST SpaceMobile edges towards D2D launch
Highlight: Progress on satellite-to-phone connectivity
URL: https://www.mobileworldlive.com/operators/the-friday-file-masorange-gets-upgrade-tsmc-delivers-chip-warning/