Tokyo and Kawasaki, Japan (November 13, 2024) – SoftBank Corp. and Fujitsu Limited today announced a significant expansion of their partnership to accelerate the commercialization of AI-RAN technology, which aims at deploying it by 2026. This collaboration which was signed through a memorandum of understanding on October 25 outlined further steps in the establishment of a new verification lab in Dallas Texas, and the development of AI vRAN software by the two companies.
The partnership builds on successful outdoor proof of concept trials that were started by both companies in October 2024 to demonstrate high-quality communication of up to 20 cells per server using Fujitsu’s vRAN software and Radio Units integrated with NVIDIA AI Aerial platform and GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip.
“We are excited to take a step forward toward the commercialization of AI-RAN through this strengthened partnership. We anticipate further advancements in RAN efficiency and sophistication through AI, which will accelerate the practical application of AI-RAN,” stated Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President & CTO of SoftBank Corp.
The new verification lab in Dallas will serve as a crucial testing ground for AI-RAN hardware, software, and applications, while fostering ecosystem development for global market adoption. The companies will focus on developing software that leverages AI to optimize RAN performance in real-world environments.
“Fujitsu has been engaged in the development of high-performance vRAN software utilizing GPUs for a number of years,” said Shingo Mizuno, Corporate Executive Officer EVP at Fujitsu Limited. “By strengthening our partnership with SoftBank, Fujitsu aims to accelerate the creation of new business through combining the technologies and practical knowledge of both companies at a higher level.”
The collaboration aims to revolutionize mobile infrastructure investment efficiency while enabling new services through improved communication quality, particularly during high mobility and congestion periods. This partnership marks a significant step toward integrating AI capabilities into radio access networks, potentially transforming how mobile networks operate in the future.
Source: https://www.fujitsu.com/global/about/resources/news/press-releases/2024/1113-01.html
Latest Stories:
Comviva Leverages AWS in AI Transformation for Communication Sector
New Eurotech IoT Gateway Enhances Security and Simplifies Global Compliance
ASUS Showcases Advanced AI Healthcare Solutions at MEDICA 2024 Germany