Reports

Nokia has announced a collaboration with Telia Finland to co-create and test commercial use cases based on AI-driven Radio Access Network (AI-RAN) technology, aiming to enhance network performance and drive the commercialization of AI-enabled applications. The partnership will focus on exploring scenarios across various industries, including mission-critical communications, to jointly build an AI-RAN use case ecosystem. This collaboration leverages the transformative potential of AI-RAN in advancing current 5G network capabilities. At MWC26, Nokia showcased multiple live demonstrations of AI-RAN technologies, highlighting their role in enabling cognitive, software-defined radio systems. Specific demos included: Vision AI with reasoning capabilities, delivery robots from ServeRobotics that can transform retail, and the use of the radio network itself as a sensor for the physical world. Additionally, Nokia demonstrated how spare GPU capacity in the distributed AI-RAN network could be monetized by offering AI compute to external customers. These demonstrations collectively illustrate AI-RAN's value in optimizing network operations, improving energy efficiency, and supporting new AI-driven applications. **Comment**: This collaboration marks a critical step for AI-RAN moving from technical validation to commercial scenario exploration. By working closely with operator Telia, Nokia aims to build a robust application ecosystem, which will not only accelerate the commercialization of AI-RAN technology but also pave the way for future AI-Native 6G. For the industry, monitoring the test results of specific use cases and their monetization models will be highly insightful.

At Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026, Nokia and Dutch digital infrastructure provider Eurofiber announced the official integration of 5G RedCap technology into their existing Private 5G ecosystem, built in collaboration with strategic partners including Nokia and NTT DATA. The introduced 5G RedCap technology is designed for large-scale Internet of Things applications that require high reliability and low latency but not the full 5G bandwidth. Key advantages include lower complexity, reduced energy consumption, more affordable modules compared to full 5G modems, and support for massive numbers of IoT endpoints such as sensors, wearables, and cameras. The technology enables IoT projects to start easily with lower upfront investment and scale gradually, facilitating easier integration of operational technology equipment with IT networks. Through this solution, IoT devices can be directly connected to Eurofiber's secure, open fiber backbone. This offers reliable coverage and low-latency real-time data collection, a significant advantage over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or LPWAN technologies, particularly suitable for dynamic environments in industries like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and construction. With no Dutch operator having commercially deployed 5G RedCap yet, this private ecosystem positions itself as a market frontrunner. **Comment**: This move transitions 5G RedCap from a technical standard to a concrete enterprise-grade solution. By lowering the deployment barrier through a private network ecosystem, it precisely addresses the industry's need for reliable, scalable, and economical connectivity, potentially accelerating the large-scale adoption of 5G in vertical sectors.

Nokia recently updated and highlighted its industry-leading optical networking portfolio, designed to deliver greater scale, simpler networks, and robust security for the AI era and the cloud-networked economy. The core strength of the portfolio lies in its highly vertically integrated coherent optical engine technology. The portfolio covers several key areas. On the hardware platform side, it includes compact modular platforms (e.g., 1830 GX, 1830 PSI-M), metro-edge platforms (1830 PSD), optical line systems (1830 GX, 1830 PSS/PSI-L), and packet-OTN transport platforms (1830 PSS, 1830 XTM, etc.). At the optical engine level, Nokia provides embedded engines (e.g., PSE-Vs, ICE6, PSE-6s, ICE-7) and coherent pluggables (PSE-V 100G/400G, ICE-X 100G/400G/800G), with ICE-7 and PSE-6s supporting 1.2T rates. The solutions focus on AI networks, coherent routing, data center interconnect, open optical networking, and quantum-safe optical transport. Automation capabilities are supported by the WaveSuite and Transcend Automation Suites. Services include support for both Nokia and Infinera solutions. **Comment**: Nokia has systematically presented its complete optical networking stack, from underlying chips and pluggable modules to system platforms and automation software, demonstrating end-to-end vertical integration capabilities. It clearly positions AI, quantum safety, and high-speed rates (800G/1.2T) as key technological focuses, aiming to address the bandwidth and security challenges posed by future data center interconnect and AI computing networks. For network operators and large cloud service providers, this portfolio offers a one-stop technical option for building next-generation, high-capacity, automated optical networks.

Nokia has detailed its comprehensive portfolio of 5G Radio Access products and solutions on its Mobile Networks page. The portfolio is designed to help operators and enterprises address network profitability challenges and accelerate industry digital transformation. At the solution level, Nokia offers "Advanced 5G Solutions," "AirScale Radio Access," "MantaRay SON (Self-Organizing Networks)," and "Site Solutions." The product line is extensive, encompassing AirScale baseband solutions, macro remote radio heads, Massive MIMO radios, as well as the Kolibri series of indoor/outdoor small cells and Shikra mmWave radio products. Key enabling technologies include its ReefShark chipset and Cloud RAN. Nokia emphasizes that its approach redefines the future of networks with AI and automation, with its AI-RAN and MantaRay SMO (Service Management and Orchestration) aimed at enhancing network efficiency. The solutions support a seamless evolution path to Advanced 5G and 6G, helping operators modernize networks and meet sustainability targets. For industry applications, Nokia provides high-performance private 5G network solutions, supporting deployment on licensed, shared, and unlicensed spectrum to meet the demand for robust, secure, highly available, and ultra-low-latency connectivity in enterprise and industrial sectors. <b>Comment</b> Nokia has systematically presented its complete 5G RAN product matrix, from hardware to software and from macro sites to small cells, clearly positioning AI, automation, and cloudification as core technological drivers. Its solutions particularly emphasize support for private networks in vertical industries, directly targeting the growth area of 5G-to-Business. For vendors and operators focused on 5G network architecture evolution and industry solutions, Nokia's developments in integrating AI-RAN and Cloud RAN warrant ongoing attention.

Nokia has announced its end-to-end autonomous networks strategy, aiming to build networks that can "sense, think, and act." The strategy deeply integrates AI and automation into every layer of the network, from the underlying infrastructure to applications and services, to simplify complexity and advance network autonomy. The solution covers a complete technology stack from domain automation to end-to-end service operations. At the domain automation level, Nokia provides automation suites for various domains including core network, data center, fixed access, home broadband, IP, radio, and optical networks, such as the MantaRay series (including SON, SMO, Autopilot) for radio networks and the Transcend Automation Suite for optical networks. At the end-to-end service operations level, components like the Autonomous Networks Suite, Orchestration Center, and Assurance Center enable cross-domain coordination. Nokia emphasizes that its solution, backed by Bell Labs innovation, has already delivered Level 4 automation with real business outcomes for some customers. The strategy addresses rapidly changing network demands, drives networks toward self-optimization, and paves the way for future self-evolving networks. **Comment**: Nokia's autonomous network solution is comprehensive, progressing from single-domain to cross-domain automation, demonstrating its deep expertise in this field. The explicit claim of commercially deployed L4 automation is a key differentiator from conceptual marketing. For operators, this presents a clear evolution path from simplified operations to network-as-a-service.

Nokia has announced its active engagement in the new quantum era, aiming to leverage quantum mechanics to develop next-generation technologies for communication, privacy, detection, and computation. The company categorizes quantum technologies into four key areas: quantum computing, quantum networks, quantum security, and quantum sensing. In quantum computing, researchers at Nokia Bell Labs are exploring topological and photonic approaches and investigating new quantum algorithms, aiming to utilize qubits to perform complex calculations beyond the reach of classical computers. In the field of quantum networks, the focus is on researching how to transmit quantum information to build a "quantum internet" connecting quantum computers and sensors, and exploring new possibilities for communication unlocked by quantum mechanics. Addressing the potential security threats posed by future quantum computers, Nokia is developing a new generation of encryption to prevent quantum attacks and researching communication technologies based on the immutable laws of physics to achieve "unbreakable" security for data and communications. Furthermore, quantum sensing technology aims to detect previously unmeasurable natural phenomena. Its research into photonic and magnetic-field sensors holds potential applications in optical/wireless communications, positioning services, and medicine. **Commentary**: Nokia's layout demonstrates its long-term strategy of combining fundamental scientific research (Bell Labs) with commercial innovation. Its technology roadmap is not limited to the popular field of quantum computing but extends to areas closer to its existing communication business, such as networks, security, and sensing. This facilitates a smoother integration of quantum technologies into future network infrastructure, building a differentiated advantage. It is advisable to monitor the specific progress and early pilot projects of its quantum network and security technologies.

On Day Two of MWC 26, Nokia highlighted its "AI-on-RAN" concept and the evolution of network infrastructure. This solution aims to deeply integrate artificial intelligence into the Radio Access Network (RAN) to optimize network performance and efficiency. Nokia's proposed solution emphasizes leveraging AI technology to intellectualize the RAN. This includes real-time traffic analysis, predictive network maintenance, and dynamic resource allocation through AI algorithms, thereby enhancing network capacity, reducing energy consumption, and improving end-user experience. The demonstration suggests that the fusion of AI and network infrastructure is extending from the core network to the edge and access side, representing a key evolutionary step towards future networks (e.g., 6G). This initiative is not an isolated product but part of Nokia's overall network architecture evolution strategy, reflecting its long-term approach to driving network automation and efficiency through software and intelligence. <b>Comment</b> Nokia's "AI-on-RAN" solution clarifies the application value of AI at the access network side,下沉ing intelligence from the core to the network edge. It is a forward-looking layout to address future complex services and energy efficiency challenges. It is recommended to follow how this concept will be translated into specific product features and deployable solutions.

Nokia announced significant progress in its “Network as Code” ecosystem during MWC26. Multiple global telecommunications providers, including Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Vodafone, and Rakuten Mobile, have joined the platform to promote the opening of advanced network capabilities through network APIs. The core technological innovation lies in Nokia's collaboration with Google Cloud. The partnership integrates Google Cloud's Agentic AI capabilities into the Network as Code platform. Utilizing Google's Agent Developer Kit and Gemini models, and connecting to network APIs via the Model Context Protocol (MCP), enterprise agents can create intent-based, on-demand workflows without coding. Early use cases focus on enterprise device management (connectivity, location), fleet management (coverage, quality), and security monitoring (high-precision multi-modal inference leveraging network slicing). The platform provides developers with standardized, secure API access, simplifying complex network functions. Early use cases have been developed in industries such as banking, healthcare, automotive, and entertainment. For example, the number verification API is used to replace traditional one-time passwords, enhancing digital security and streamlining login processes. **Comment**: Nokia is building a powerful API ecosystem through its “Network as Code” platform. The integration with Google Cloud's Agentic AI is a critical step aimed at lowering the barrier to consuming network capabilities, transforming the network from infrastructure into a service that can be directly programmed and consumed by AI agents. This opens new business models for telecom operators and accelerates network-as-a-service innovation for vertical industries.

**Brief Content:** Nokia has announced an expanded partnership with Brazilian operator TIM Brasil to deploy a next-generation “AI-Ready” 5G network nationwide, covering approximately 42% of the country's population. The collaboration will leverage Nokia's latest AirScale portfolio, including Habrok Massive MIMO antennas, Pandion Remote Radio Heads, and AirScale Radio small cell solutions, to enhance network performance and energy efficiency. The core deployment will feature Nokia's market-leading MantaRay SON (Self-Organizing Network) solution, which uses AI and analytics to automate routine operations, improving network quality and reducing operational costs. This network modernization will impact key regions across 14 states, including Belo Horizonte and Brasília, ensuring faster and more reliable 5G connectivity. Crucially, the partnership will deeply integrate capabilities from NVIDIA's AI-RAN platform. Nokia, TIM Brasil, and NVIDIA will jointly explore developing transformative AI use cases such as intelligent network slicing, image/video analysis and recognition, and threat detection. This aims to enhance B2B solutions for verticals like mining, agribusiness, and manufacturing, laying the groundwork for future 5G Advanced, 6G, and AI-driven services. **Commentary:** This collaboration marks a significant step in the evolution of telecom networks towards an “AI-native” architecture. Nokia is building an end-to-end solution by integrating its RAN hardware, MantaRay SON software, and NVIDIA's AI-RAN platform. It is advisable to monitor the implementation results of its AI use cases in vertical industries and the actual improvements in network energy efficiency and automated operations brought by the “AI-RAN” architecture, which could serve as a blueprint for future operator network upgrades.

Nokia and Deutsche Telekom have announced an expansion of their strategic collaboration to accelerate the development of cloud-based, disaggregated, and AI-native Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies. The enhanced ‘Innovation Cooperation Program’ deepens joint efforts in Cloud RAN, open interfaces, and next-generation AI-native RAN solutions aimed at enabling high-performance, multi-vendor mobile networks. The collaboration will specifically support Deutsche Telekom’s Open RAN strategy. The partners will increase cooperation on Open Fronthaul (OFH) integration and are working on additional multi-vendor integrations for OFH and Cloud RAN. A vendor-independent Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) platform is identified as another critical pillar for centralized control across multi-vendor RAN environments. In the AI-native RAN domain, Nokia is established as Deutsche Telekom’s strategic co-creation partner. The joint initiative focuses on developing high-impact AI-RAN use cases, such as AI-powered receivers, channel estimation and prediction, adaptive beamforming, and predictive network optimization to enhance spectral efficiency and automation. These AI technologies will be validated in lab and live network environments. Furthermore, the partnership aims to establish open, disaggregated AI-native RAN architectures, ensuring AI is embedded across network layers using standards-aligned, interoperable interfaces. **Comment**: This collaboration signifies a deep alignment between a leading telecom vendor and a top-tier operator on the convergence path of Open RAN and AI-RAN. The focus shifts from proof-of-concept to real-world performance validation and architectural standardization, aiming to address practical challenges in multi-vendor interoperability and AI deployment at scale, laying the groundwork for future network automation and operational efficiency.

Nokia has recently updated its official introduction page for Broadband Access Networks solutions, showcasing a comprehensive technology portfolio geared towards future network evolution. The solution aims to help operators build high-performance, scalable, and intelligent access networks to meet growing bandwidth demands and diverse service scenarios. The core portfolio encompasses a variety of access technologies from fiber to wireless, and from residential to business. In the fiber domain, Nokia offers a full suite of Passive Optical Network solutions including GPON, XGS-PON, and up to 25G/50G PON, supporting a smooth evolution to higher bandwidths. Concurrently, its Fixed Wireless Access solutions utilize technologies like mmWave to deliver high-speed connectivity in areas difficult to reach with fiber. The solution also emphasizes network intelligence, integrating analytics, automation, and AI capabilities for predictive operations and experience assurance. This holistic solution focuses not only on the technology but also on helping operators reduce total cost of ownership, accelerate time-to-market for new services, and enhance end-user experience, laying a solid network foundation for future applications like 5G Advanced, the metaverse, and Industry 4.0. **Comment**: Nokia's broadband access solution reflects a strategic layout of "all-scenario, all-technology, and intelligence." Its key advantage lies in providing an end-to-end product portfolio from copper to fiber and fixed to wireless, coupled with a clear evolution path to higher-rate PON, which helps operators navigate the challenges of technology selection and investment protection.

Nokia has recently unveiled its comprehensive portfolio of core network products and solutions, designed to serve as the foundation for automated, agile, and future-proof networks for operators. Centered on a cloud-native software architecture that supports deployment on hybrid cloud environments, the portfolio aims to help operators reduce operational costs and accelerate the transition from legacy to modern services. The portfolio spans several key domains. For the **5G Core**, it includes products like Cloud Packet Core, 5G Signaling, and Voice over 5G (Vo5G) core. The **Automation & Operations** segment features Core Automation, Cloud Operations Manager, and Continuous Delivery solutions to enable automated network operations and agile service delivery. Furthermore, the portfolio encompasses **Subscriber Data Management** (e.g., HSS, Shared Data Layer), **Analytics, Charging & Policy Control** (e.g., Converged Charging, Policy Controller), and **Cloud Infrastructure** support based on Red Hat OpenShift. Nokia emphasizes that its core network software is key to unlocking the potential of 5G and beyond, enabling operators to scale their networks to meet customer demands and deliver high-quality, reliable connectivity experiences. The company also references "Core network Software as a Service" as a ready-to-go delivery model. <b>Comment</b> Nokia's systematic presentation of its full-stack core network capabilities highlights its strategic shift from a product vendor to an integrated "cloud-native + automation" solution provider. The strong emphasis on hybrid cloud, continuous delivery, and the SaaS model directly addresses operators' core demands for network agility and TCO optimization, constituting a robust competitive response.

Nokia has recently launched its data center networking solutions tailored for the AI era, aiming to help enterprises transform their data centers into business nerve centers. The solution emphasizes building reliable, efficient, and "just work" networks to meet the stringent demands of AI workloads for high performance and low latency. The core of the solution encompasses three key areas: data center switching, data center gateways, and optical interconnect. Specific products include the 7215 IXS management switches, 7220 IXR shallow buffer switches, 7250 IXR deep buffer switches, and the 7750 SR service routers. At the network operating system level, Nokia offers its proprietary SR Linux NOS and community-based SONiC NOS to enhance flexibility and openness. Additionally, the solution integrates the 1830 series optical transport systems and ICE-D intra-data center optics to optimize both internal and inter-data center connectivity. For management and automation, Nokia introduced the Event-Driven Automation (EDA) solution for data centers, along with the IP Network Services Platform (NSP) and the optical network WaveSuite, aiming to improve operational efficiency. Nokia highlights its "quality-first" philosophy and proven track record in building mission-critical networks to ensure the stability and reliability of data center networks. **Comment**: Nokia's solution integrates an end-to-end product portfolio from switches and routers to optical transport, while strengthening automation capabilities, demonstrating its determination to fully enter the AI data center market. Its strategy of supporting both SR Linux and SONiC NOS helps cater to different customer preferences for open-source and proprietary systems, which is a notable advantage in heterogeneous environments. It is recommended to monitor the actual performance of its 7250 IXR switch series in AI training clusters.

Nokia has unveiled its comprehensive IP network portfolio, designed to help communication service providers, cloud providers, and enterprise network operators build and operate high-performance, sustainable networks. The portfolio is built on a foundation of cutting-edge silicon, software, and automation to power business-critical applications worldwide. The portfolio encompasses several core solutions and product families. Key solutions include Broadband Edge, Coherent Routing, Mobile Transport, and Adaptive Cloud Networking. The product lineup features router series such as the 7210 SAS, 7250 IXR, 7705 SAR, 7730 SXR, 7750 SR, and the Virtualized Service Router. Software offerings include the Network Services Platform and the SR OS/SR Linux operating systems. Notable technological highlights include its in-house FP routing silicon technology, particularly the latest FP5 network processor and FPcx routing silicon, which form the foundation for high-performance routing. The portfolio also integrates the Deepfield network analytics and security solution, providing network intelligence, threat mitigation (e.g., the 7750 Defender Mitigation System), and subscriber insights. In terms of technology insights, Nokia emphasizes forward-looking directions such as 800GE routing, Ethernet VPN (EVPN), IP network security, network slicing, quantum-safe networks, and AI-driven network automation. **Comment**: This release represents a systematic integration and presentation of Nokia's IP product line. Its core advantage lies in vertical integration from silicon (FP5) and hardware appliances to software platforms (NSP, Deepfield), coupled with its focus on cutting-edge technologies like 800GE, network slicing, and quantum safety. It is recommended to monitor the performance metrics of the FP5 chip, particularly its energy efficiency improvements, and how the Deepfield solution achieves deep synergy with routing products to provide end-to-end network visibility and security protection.

Nokia has been at the forefront of multimedia technology for over three decades, shaping the evolution of video, audio, and immersive media experiences. With over 5,000 multimedia inventions, the company's contributions have profoundly transformed the industry. Notably, its foundational work in video compression, including core H.26x technologies, has laid the groundwork for global standards, ensuring seamless interoperability across devices and networks. Nokia's multimedia technologies offer advanced solutions to enhance user experiences. Its portfolio includes immersive Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) experiences delivered over wireless networks. In audio, Nokia focuses on cutting-edge technologies to deliver superior sound quality and spatial audio experiences, such as its exploration of "Immersive Audio" as the future of voice calling. **Comment**: The brief highlights Nokia's deep patent portfolio and industry influence in core multimedia technologies, particularly codec standards, which form a significant competitive moat. Its direction of integrating immersive experiences with wireless networks aligns with 5G/6G and metaverse application scenarios. It is advisable to monitor the subsequent progress and commercialization cases of its specific technologies like "Immersive Audio."

Nokia has recently introduced its “Network as Code” platform, designed to unlock the potential of 5G networks by providing standardized Network APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). This platform enables developers to seamlessly integrate advanced 5G network capabilities, such as network slicing, low latency, and high bandwidth, into their applications, thereby empowering an innovative ecosystem. The core of this solution is the creation of a dynamic collaborative ecosystem. Telecom operators can expose their network attributes and capabilities to developers, who in turn use these APIs to build novel application experiences, allowing enterprises to develop innovative products and services. This opens up new revenue opportunities for operators and accelerates innovation in Industry 4.0 and consumer use cases. Nokia outlines several application scenarios, including digital identity verification and fraud prevention, device insights, and programmable connectivity. Target industries span automotive, drones, media and entertainment. The platform aims to help telecom operators fully leverage their network investments through strategic partnerships, driving a business model shift from connectivity to network-as-a-service. **Comment**: Nokia's move aims to transform telecom networks from “dumb pipes” into programmable innovation platforms, a crucial step in realizing the value of 5G. Its success hinges on building a broad developer community and unified API standards to lower the barrier to entry and truly stimulate cross-industry application innovation.

Vodafone and Nokia have announced an expansion of their strategic partnership to jointly develop and deploy advanced anti-fraud solutions powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). The initiative aims to protect Vodafone's global enterprise customers from increasingly sophisticated telecommunications fraud, such as International Revenue Share Fraud (IRSF) and Wangiri scams. The core of the new solution is Nokia's "deep layered" security framework and its AI/ML-driven intelligence platform. This platform can analyze massive volumes of signaling and traffic data across Vodafone's global network in real-time, accurately identifying fraud patterns through behavioral analysis and anomaly detection models. Nokia will provide its security software and expertise, combining with Vodafone's global network reach and customer insights to build a scalable, proactive fraud defense system. The collaboration extends beyond technology integration, with both parties planning joint go-to-market activities to offer tailored security services to enterprise clients in critical sectors like finance and healthcare. This signifies a shift from traditional vendor relationships to solution-based deep collaboration between telecom operators and equipment providers in tackling cybersecurity threats. **Comment**: This partnership is a typical case of a "powerful alliance" in the telecom security field. The combination of Nokia's AI capabilities and Vodafone's network and customer resources is complementary and is expected to create a more effective anti-fraud product. It is advisable to monitor subsequent deployment cases and specific protection efficacy metrics of this solution to assess its market competitiveness.

Nokia has launched its defense communications solutions, aiming to empower defense organizations' digital transformation through advanced connectivity to achieve information superiority, optimize operations, and support joint multi-domain operations. The core of the solution is building high-performance, low-latency, and resilient communication networks to meet the unique demands of militaries in the AI era. Nokia emphasizes that this advanced connectivity provides critical situational awareness, rapid decision-making capabilities, and ingrained security safeguards for military operations, enabling effectiveness in the most challenging conflict environments. The solution specifically mentions "Nokia Federal Solutions," focusing on providing trusted 5G connectivity for mission-critical U.S. government agencies. This indicates Nokia is deeply adapting and applying its commercial communication technologies to the high-security defense and government sectors. <b>Comment</b>: Nokia is actively extending its advantages in 5G and network technologies into the high-barrier, high-value defense market. Its proposed "advanced connectivity" serves as the core infrastructure for empowering military digitalization, aligning with the global trend of military communications evolving towards high-speed, intelligent, and resilient networks. For vendors focusing on defense technology and critical infrastructure communications, Nokia's strategic move is worth monitoring. The specific architecture and security practices of its "trusted 5G" in government private networks will be key competitive differentiators.

Nokia has entered a strategic collaboration with AI computing solutions provider Blaize to enhance its Edge Artificial Intelligence (Edge AI) capabilities across the Asia Pacific region. The partnership focuses on the joint development and promotion of hybrid inference solutions tailored for the APAC market. The solution integrates Blaize's proprietary Graph Streaming Processor (GSP) architecture with Nokia's industrial-grade edge computing platform. It aims to optimize the execution of AI workloads between the edge and the cloud. The collaboration specifically addresses key challenges in edge AI, such as low latency, high energy efficiency, and real-time data processing, particularly in scenarios like smart manufacturing, smart cities, and network automation. This hybrid inference approach enables enterprises to deploy AI models more flexibly, performing real-time inference on local edge devices while offloading complex model training or non-real-time tasks to the cloud, thereby achieving an optimal balance of performance, cost, and privacy. **Comment**: This collaboration signals Nokia's strategy to rapidly strengthen its edge AI hardware and solution capabilities through ecosystem partnerships, addressing the urgent demand for intelligent edge infrastructure in the APAC market. For vendors focusing on industrial IoT and edge computing, the hybrid inference architecture represents a noteworthy direction for technology integration.

Nokia recently released a series of network transformation solutions targeting telecommunications providers, aiming to help operators cope with traffic growth, reduce operational costs, and accelerate service innovation. The core of this initiative is driving networks towards a cloud-native and automated architecture. The solution emphasizes the implementation of closed-loop automation in network operations through the introduction of AI and machine learning technologies to improve efficiency and reduce manual intervention. Simultaneously, Nokia offers an end-to-end cloud-native product portfolio spanning from the core network to the Radio Access Network (RAN), supporting flexible deployment in public, private, or hybrid cloud environments. This move is designed to help operators build more agile and scalable network infrastructure, enabling faster rollout of new 5G and edge computing services. Nokia's solution particularly focuses on network slicing, security, and energy efficiency, providing technical support for operators to achieve business diversification and sustainable development. <b>Comment</b>: Nokia's released solution is a typical strategic move in the operator market, positioning cloud-native and automation as the core selling points for network modernization. Its end-to-end product capability is a key competitive advantage, but the actual implementation effectiveness depends on the integration depth with operators' existing systems and ecosystem partnerships. It is advisable to monitor subsequent customer case studies and specific performance improvement metrics.

Nokia announced significant progress in its strategic AI-RAN partnership with NVIDIA at MWC26, marking a shift from technological validation toward commercial deployment. This solution aims to transform RAN into a software-driven platform optimized for AI, laying the foundation for AI-native 6G. Key developments include: 1) **Technology Readiness Validation**: Successful concurrent processing tests of GPU-accelerated AI and RAN workloads (e.g., video streaming, generative AI queries) were completed with T-Mobile US on a single NVIDIA Grace Hopper 200 server, demonstrating the ability to integrate advanced RAN functions with AI applications on a shared accelerated computing platform. 2) **Deepened Operator Collaboration**: The first AI RAN-powered 5G Layer 3 call in Southeast Asia was achieved with Indosat; with SoftBank, a demonstration showed how spare RAN compute capacity can run third-party AI tasks, exploring new monetization models. Operators including BT, Elisa, NTT DOCOMO, and Vodafone are also actively adopting the technology. **Ecosystem Expansion**: Nokia's AI-RAN ecosystem has expanded to include Quanta and Supermicro, joining Dell Technologies and building on Red Hat OpenShift to provide COTS-based server and infrastructure choices. The cloud-native platform based on Red Hat OpenShift provides the foundation for scaling AI-RAN workloads across hybrid cloud environments. **Commentary**: This announcement signals that AI-RAN is moving from proof-of-concept to practical deployment. Its core value lies in achieving both network performance enhancement and AI service monetization through a shared GPU-accelerated platform. It is advisable to monitor its real-world integration cases with major operators and the exploration of business models monetizing idle compute capacity, as these could be key to future network architecture and operator business model transformation.

Nokia announced a major evolution of its AirScale portfolio ahead of MWC26 with the launch of its next-generation Doksuri Remote Radio Heads (RRHs). Engineered for the AI era, these radios are a foundational component of Nokia's AI-RAN strategy. Powered by a new-generation ReefShark System-on-Chip (SoC), the Doksuri RRHs embed advanced intelligence at the radio layer. Key performance advancements include: up to 30% improvement in power efficiency under typical conditions; radios that are up to 25% lighter, reducing site footprint; and a unique mounting system that cuts installation time by up to 70%, streamlining deployments. In parallel, Nokia launched an rApp Marketplace for its Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) platform. This marketplace enables communication service providers and ecosystem partners to build, integrate, and deploy automation applications more easily within an open, multi-vendor environment, accelerating AI-driven RAN automation. **Comment**: Nokia's release directly addresses core operator pain points in the AI-RAN era: energy efficiency and deployment complexity. The deep integration of intelligence and efficient hardware in the Doksuri RRH, combined with the open software ecosystem of the SMO Marketplace, represents a comprehensive upgrade in competitiveness from hardware to software, performance to automation, paving the way for the evolution towards 6G.

Nokia and Ericsson have announced a landmark collaboration aimed at significantly advancing intelligent automation for purpose-built, cloud RAN, and Open RAN networks. The core of this partnership is mutual ecosystem membership: Ericsson will join Nokia's SMO (Service Management and Orchestration) Marketplace, and Nokia will become a member of Ericsson's rApp (rApp) Ecosystem. The collaboration focuses on advancing the adoption of open standards and promoting compatibility across their rApp portfolios, thereby supporting multivendor SMO ecosystems. This move is designed to give Communication Service Providers (CSPs) greater choice and accelerate the transition towards Autonomous Networks. Both companies will concentrate on innovation centered around the R1 interface, which is crucial for rApp-SMO interaction. Through this partnership, rApps from both companies will be made available to CSPs on both platforms, expanding access, availability, and interoperability for the growing number of market rApps. Industry analysts note that this collaboration reflects shared confidence in SMO as the long-term automation architecture and a common commitment to advancing industry-wide interoperability through standardized R1 interfaces. It is seen as a key step in helping CSPs achieve and surpass Level 4 network autonomy. **Comment**: This collaboration represents a substantive step by two telecom equipment giants in promoting an open ecosystem for network automation. By breaking down barriers and enhancing rApp interoperability, it has the potential to reduce integration complexity for operators in multivendor environments and accelerate the large-scale deployment of autonomous networks. It is advisable to monitor subsequent progress in R1 interface standardization and the cross-platform deployment of specific rApps.

Nokia has entered into a multi-year exclusive agreement with Telefónica to deploy network connectivity solutions for 17 new edge data center nodes across Spain, with 12 already deployed. This initiative supports Telefónica's shift to a distributed edge architecture, bringing compute and storage closer to end-users. The deployment leverages Nokia's data center networking solutions, specifically the 7220 IXR data center switches and 7750 SR data center gateways. The solution is designed to deliver high-speed, ultra-low latency, and highly reliable connectivity to support AI training/inferencing, B2B, and Telco Cloud services for sectors like healthcare, education, and industry. The single-vendor model aims to simplify operations, unify architecture, and increase efficiency. This partnership positions Nokia as the sole networking technology partner for Telefónica's expanding edge network, reinforcing Spain's data sovereignty and building foundational digital infrastructure. **Comment**: This project is a landmark case of large-scale edge data center network deployment by an operator. Nokia secured this exclusive deal by offering an end-to-end "AI-ready" solution, with its single-vendor strategy and proven pilot (2024) being key differentiators. It sets a reference for vendors competing in the edge computing infrastructure market.

Nokia, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS), showcased the industry's first Agentic AI-powered 5G-Advanced network slicing solution at MWC26. This solution integrates Nokia's advanced network slicing with AWS's AI platform (specifically Amazon Bedrock) to deliver intent-based, autonomously responsive network slicing services. The core innovation lies in its Agentic AI modules. These modules analyze real-time open internet data—including traffic, events, locations, maps, and weather—to dynamically infer network demands. The system automatically adjusts Radio Access Network (RAN) policies to meet service-level agreements (SLAs) across various scenarios. Nokia's 5G AirScale base stations, MantaRay SMO, and Agentic AI modules are integrated end-to-end with Amazon Bedrock via APIs. The solution supports multiple use cases: 1) Enterprise and industrial slicing, which autonomously guarantees bitrate and latency for critical applications like manufacturing and IoT; 2) On-demand slicing, which prioritizes quality of service for public safety, 5G+, and FWA users during emergencies or traffic surges; 3) Mass event slicing, which optimizes network capacity for VIP spectators, payment applications, and more at concerts and sporting events. Operators du and Orange are the first to pilot this innovation on their live networks. **Comment**: This solution elevates network slicing from static configuration to a dynamic, intelligent "business enabler," marking a key step towards AI-native 5G networks. It directly addresses the core pain point for operators—monetizing 5G investments through differentiated services—and demonstrates significant commercial potential.

Nokia has launched its portfolio of advanced connectivity solutions for the energy and resources sector, aiming to drive intelligence, automation, and sustainability through AI-enabled networks. The core of the solution is to deliver deterministic, low-latency, and high-performance connectivity required for next-generation energy operations. The solution covers three key areas: 1) **IP/MPLS Portfolio**: Built for mission-critical energy networks, offering deterministic performance, high resiliency, and strong cybersecurity, supporting smooth migration from legacy networks and enabling IT/OT convergence. 2) **Private Wireless for Digitalization**: Provides secure, mission-critical private LTE/5G connectivity for field crews, substations, and remote sites, supporting use cases like voice/video communications, monitoring, and automation, and integrates with IP/MPLS and optical networks. 3) **Data Center and AI-Ready Networks**: Builds a secure, high-performance foundation for AI-driven operations, analytics, and digital grid applications by connecting data centers, control centers, and grid-edge environments. Nokia emphasizes the **hyper-resiliency and ultra-reliability** of its solutions, citing market trust: 7 of the world's top 10 power utilities and 15 of the top 20 U.S. power utilities use its technologies, with grids utilizing Nokia solutions serving over 1.34 billion end customers. <b>Comment</b>: Nokia's solution clearly targets the core pain points of the energy sector's digital transformation – achieving uninterrupted, deterministic mission-critical connectivity in remote and harsh environments. By packaging IP/MPLS, private wireless, and AI-ready data center networks into an end-to-end solution and highlighting its deep industry collaboration, it aims to solidify its leadership in critical infrastructure communications. For energy companies, this presents a systematic modernization path emphasizing smooth migration and maximizing the value of existing assets.

Nokia has launched a comprehensive solution suite for the transportation industry, aiming to drive digital transformation in rail, aviation, highways, ports, and logistics through advanced connectivity and AI technologies. The core objective is to assist operators in modernizing their communications infrastructure to enhance system resilience, operational efficiency, and passenger/freight experiences. The solution integrates three key components: 1) Advanced fixed, mobile, and transport network connectivity; 2) AI-driven automation and analytics; and 3) Modern data center infrastructure. Nokia emphasizes that its offerings deliver secure, reliable, and efficient connectivity for mission-critical environments such as railway networks, air traffic control centers, airports, and highways, addressing core needs for real-time intelligence, smarter operations, and seamless journeys. Specific application scenarios include enabling digital rail with FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System) enhanced by AI, providing seamless operational management for aviation, and supporting the transition to safer, smarter highways towards "Vision Zero." Support from Nokia's services experts is included. **Comment**: Nokia's solution clearly targets the market trend of digitalization and intelligence in transportation infrastructure, deeply integrating communication networks with AI and data analytics to form a complete framework covering multimodal transport. For transportation operators seeking infrastructure upgrades and operational efficiency improvements, this represents a noteworthy holistic technological approach.

Nokia has introduced its next-generation IP networking technology, 800GE routing. This technology is designed to address the exponential bandwidth demands from applications like the Metaverse, while helping operators improve network efficiency and reduce energy consumption. The core technological innovation lies in the ability of 800GE routing to triple IP network capacity while maintaining the same space and energy footprint as existing equipment. This is achieved through faster optics and more efficient silicon technologies. It adheres to the latest QSFP-DD interface module specifications, supporting high-density 800Gb/s pluggable optics with backward compatibility for existing 400GE, 200GE, and 100GE optics, facilitating smooth network upgrades. Nokia emphasizes that this technology is a key step towards a more sustainable network future, with its core value being "moving more bits using less energy." **Comment**: 800GE represents the technological frontier for backbone networks and large-scale data center interconnects. Nokia's solution highlights a three-in-one upgrade path focusing on "capacity, density, and energy efficiency," offering direct appeal to operators facing dual pressures of traffic surge and carbon reduction. The backward compatibility design lowers deployment barriers and is crucial for large-scale commercial adoption.

Nokia has introduced the "Fiber for Everything" strategy within its broadband access solutions, aiming to meet the connectivity demands of diverse scenarios—including consumers, businesses, Industry 4.0, mobile sites, wholesale, and smart cities—on a single fiber broadband network infrastructure. This signifies the evolution of broadband from "Fiber-to-the-Home" to "Fiber for Everything." The core of this strategy lies in next-generation Passive Optical Network technologies. Nokia highlights its 25G PON and 50G PON technologies to address increasingly bursty user traffic patterns where peak demand significantly exceeds the average, aiming to deliver unbeatable multi-gigabit broadband experiences. Its product portfolio includes the Lightspan family of fiber OLTs (e.g., DF, FX, MF, SF-8M models) and corresponding ONT terminals (e.g., XS-2437X-B and 25G ONT), forming a complete end-to-end solution. Furthermore, Nokia emphasizes fixed access network automation and AI capabilities through products like the Altiplano Access Controller and the Corteca Wi-Fi software suite to enhance operational efficiency. The solution also covers comprehensive connectivity from home Wi-Fi and Fixed Wireless Access to enterprise Optical LAN. **Comment**: Nokia's "Fiber for Everything" solution represents an integration and upgrade of network architecture, aiming to reduce the complexity and cost of operating multiple parallel networks through a unified fiber platform. Its strong push for 25G/50G PON technology is a key bet for handling future traffic surges. Operators planning next-generation access networks should focus on its multi-scenario convergence capabilities and the smooth evolution path to higher-speed PON.

Nokia Bell Labs Consulting has formally launched its professional advisory services, aiming to provide top-tier global clients with evidence-driven technology strategy decision support. The team comprises cross-disciplinary industry and technology experts, leveraging the profound research heritage of Bell Labs and a proprietary analytical toolkit to help clients realize the socio-economic potential of networks and digitization. Its core mission is to integrate expertise across three key domains: Business & Services Strategy, Network & Cloud Infrastructure, and Operations & Transformation, crafting actionable, bespoke, leading-edge solutions for immediate implementation. Utilizing advanced analysis and techno-economic modeling, the service has successfully addressed complex challenges in over 300 client engagements across all continents. The consulting services cater to multiple critical sectors including telecommunication providers, enterprises and industry players, as well as AI and cloud providers. Its methodology emphasizes a client-centric, data-driven approach to identify strategic opportunities, optimize deployments and operations, aiming to accelerate the adoption of future technologies, drive industry transformation, and forge enduring partnerships.