Singtel, Ericsson Ink 5-Year Deal for AI-Powered 5G Networks
Singtel and Ericsson launch a five-year strategic partnership to deploy AI-native 5G networks and autonomous solutions across Singapore.
In a major move to redefine connectivity, telecommunications giant Singtel and Swedish tech leader Ericsson have entered into a five-year strategic partnership. The collaboration is designed to accelerate the rollout of AI-powered 5G networks in Singapore, creating a sophisticated, AI-native infrastructure that caters to the evolving needs of both businesses and everyday consumers.
Boosting Performance with Artificial Intelligence
The partnership is not starting from scratch. It builds upon a previous collaboration from March 2026 and follows a successful live-network trial. During this trial, the integration of AI-powered radio access network capabilities resulted in a significant 19 per cent increase in throughput.
This breakthrough has demonstrated that artificial intelligence can effectively optimize network resources and manage the ever-increasing surge of data traffic with far greater efficiency than traditional methods.
Driving Industrial Innovation
The agreement places a heavy emphasis on the commercial deployment of advanced connectivity. Singtel and Ericsson are targeting several high-tech industries to implement these solutions, including:
- Autonomous Vehicles: Enhancing safety and navigation through low-latency connectivity.
- Industrial Robotics: Streamlining automation in factory settings.
- Smart Manufacturing: Integrating real-time data for better production cycles.
- Intelligent Logistics: Optimizing the movement of goods through AI-driven tracking.
Focus on Major Infrastructure
The duo is also looking toward Singapore's landmark developments to test and deploy these capabilities. Key sites include the upcoming Changi Airport Terminal 5, Bulim Square, and new JTC developments. These locations will serve as hubs for real-time video analytics, intelligent inspection systems, and autonomous mobility applications.
A Vision for a Digital Future
Ng Tian Chong, CEO of Singtel Singapore, emphasized that the primary goal is to make these advanced capabilities commercially viable and widely accessible. He noted that the partnership ensures Singapore's infrastructure evolves in tandem with the requirements of the "AI era," fostering growth and innovation.
Daniel Ode, Head of Ericsson for Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines, added that by combining 5G, 5G Advanced, and AI-native operational capabilities, the partnership will directly support Singapore's overarching digital ambitions.
The Evolution of Singtel's Network
Singtel has a proven track record of rapid deployment, having launched Singapore's first 5G standalone network in 2021. By 2022, the company achieved over 95 per cent nationwide coverage, hitting its target three years ahead of schedule.
The current "5G+" network, bolstered by the 700 MHz spectrum, has already seen indoor coverage improvements of up to 40 per cent. Furthermore, recent upgrades have pushed peak uplink speeds to 250 Mbps for users with compatible modern devices.
What This Means for the User
Beyond industrial use, the partnership aims to revolutionize the consumer experience. The companies are exploring:
- AI-Driven Automation: Predicting traffic patterns to prevent congestion and optimizing energy consumption.
- Predictive Maintenance: Identifying performance issues before they affect the user.
- On-Demand Connectivity: Creating flexible options to support high-definition content, seamless video calling, and power-hungry AI applications.