Nokia has announced an extended partnership with SoftBank Corp. to modernize and expand the operator’s 4G and 5G networks across Western Japan. The new agreement includes the deployment of Nokia’s latest AirScale Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions, powered by ReefShark System-on-Chip technology, delivering enhanced performance, coverage, and energy efficiency. The upgrade will incorporate Habrok Massive MIMO radios, AirScale baseband units, and Nokia’s AI-powered MantaRay solution for intelligent network management and automation through Self-Organizing Network (SON) capabilities.
This collaboration strengthens the companies’ long-term relationship and supports SoftBank’s ambition to deliver high-quality, AI-optimized, and energy-efficient mobile networks. The partnership also extends into future-focused research initiatives, with Nokia and SoftBank being founding members of the AI-RAN Alliance, conducting joint R&D in AI-driven RAN and 6G technologies, including 7 GHz frequency band tests in Tokyo using Massive MIMO.
Mark Atkinson, Nokia’s Head of Radio Access Networks, emphasized that this project reflects the companies’ commitment to innovation and sustainability. Hideyuki Tsukuda, EVP and CTO of SoftBank, added that the collaboration will help build a next-generation 5G network that enhances performance, reduces emissions, and improves user experience across Japan.
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