Ericsson launches 5G plug-ins

Ericsson has launched a line of “5G plug-ins” designed to prepare today’s networks for the next generation of mobile technology.

The vendor has introduced a range of software-driven plug-ins focused on capabilities operators can leverage within current networks to facilitate the evolution to 5G.

Plug-ins include massive MIMO, multi-user MIMO, RAN virtualiztion, intelligent connectivity and latency reduction.

The plug-ins cover use cases including mobile HD video, driverless buses, haptic feedback-enabled drones and residential wireless broadband services offering fiber-equivalent speeds.

They are currently only available for operator trials but will be made available for commercial networks starting from next year.

Ericsson SVP and head of radio Arun Bansal said the plug-ins are designed to “enable the evolutionary steps that operators need to take as they develop networks to secure their 5G future.”

Current Analysis VP of consumer and infrastructure services noted that while 5G has gained considerable momentum over the past year, “without spectrum allocations or ratified standards, operators need a migration tactic allowing them to leverage current network investments in synch with their 5G evolution strategies.

“Ericsson’s 5G plug-Ins deliver this flexibility, supporting the deployment of advanced access technologies in the near-term, and in preparation for 5G.”