Network capabilities will drive differentiated connectivity for Telstra’s consumer and enterprise customers and create new monetization opportunities
Telstra is set to become the first communications service provider (CSP) in the Asia-Pacific region to introduce a high-performance, programmable network powered by 5G Advanced capabilities. This transformation is the result of a strategic four-year partnership with Ericsson, aimed at redefining network performance and innovation.
As part of this agreement, Telstra will enhance its radio access network (RAN) by deploying Ericsson’s cutting-edge Open RAN-ready hardware and 5G Advanced software. Additionally, the company will integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to enable self-detection and self-healing capabilities, significantly improving network efficiency and reliability.
By leveraging these advancements, Telstra will establish one of the most resilient and high-performing 5G networks globally. This next-generation, programmable network will serve as a foundation for innovative applications while delivering highly customizable connectivity solutions tailored to the evolving needs of its customers. The initiative will also enable performance-based service offerings, ensuring superior network experiences.
Furthermore, Telstra’s upgraded network will provide access to a broader ecosystem of technology innovators via network APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). This move aligns with the company’s commitment to fostering innovation and industry collaboration.
The increasing adoption of network APIs is also a key driver of telecom industry monetization, a focus of the recently announced global initiative, Aduna, where Ericsson and Telstra are founding members. Telstra’s new 5G Advanced capabilities will play a pivotal role in supporting API-based service delivery within this initiative.
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Additionally, the deployment of 5G Standalone (5G SA) solutions will unlock next-generation use cases and accelerate developer-driven innovation, playing a crucial role in advancing Industry 4.0 across Australia.
Vicki Brady, CEO of Telstra, says, “We are at an inflection point, where customer needs for technology and connectivity are becoming more sophisticated, requiring a step change in how connectivity is delivered and consumed. At the same time, demand for mobile data on our network has tripled over the past five years.
“Through our partnership with Ericsson, the first-of-its-kind for any operator across Asia-Pacific, we will evolve our offering and improve the efficiency of how we use our spectrum so we can increase our 5G network capacity to deliver better consistency of performance, reliability and speed to millions of customers.
“With a programmable network we will move from a one-size-fits-all proposition, to being able to deliver more sophisticated use cases and commercial models to provide a differentiated and more tailored connectivity experience to customers.”
Börje Ekholm, President and CEO, Ericsson, says: “High-performing programmable networks are the building blocks to digitalize enterprises and nations. Telstra – a longstanding early adopter partner of Ericsson – is set to enjoy the benefits that Ericsson 5G Standalone connectivity will bring. This faster, more secure, and differentiated connectivity will transform consumer and enterprise experiences and enable developers to use 5G technologies to experiment, innovate, and build game-changing applications. Through this deal, Telstra is also empowering Australians – from single developers to the nation’s largest industries – to play their part in ensuring Australia is competitive on the global stage. We look forward to working closely with Telstra to make that happen.”
With this groundbreaking transformation, Telstra continues to solidify its position as a leader in next-generation connectivity, setting the stage for future advancements in digital innovation and telecommunications.