The product, called AI in RAN, is a subscription service that embeds artificial intelligence (AI) models directly into Radio Access Network (RAN) basebands and radios already in the field. One of three dominant global RAN suppliers alongside Nokia and Huawei, Ericsson says the approach allows operators to extract more from existing networks rather than buying new equipment.
Trial networks recorded 20 percent higher downlink throughput and 10 percent gains in spectral efficiency. Coverage prediction accuracy reached 95 percent, and user positioning became five times more precise.
Mårten Lerner, Ericsson’s head of networks strategy and product management, said the company is “redefining what’s possible in mobile networks” by bringing AI capabilities directly to service providers.
Major operators including SoftBank, Bell, SK Telecom, and Rogers have backed the product. They say it can sharpen network management in real time and support services that depend on AI.
The system also reduces energy use through optimised processing, letting operators cut running costs without compromising service quality.
Feature rollout begins in the second quarter of 2026, with updates planned for later in the year. These include scheduling systems built on AI, intelligent beamforming, precision location tracking, and expanded network monitoring tools.
AI in RAN runs on Ericsson’s 5G Advanced and Cloud RAN platforms, supporting deployment across dedicated environments and cloud infrastructure. Ericsson began embedding AI into network equipment during the 4G era and has built on that foundation with each generation since.
Source : www.newsghana.com.gh
