Private networks enable new applications and IoT capabilities such as resource tracking, predictive maintenance and connected sensors
BT and Ericsson have announced a new partnership to provide commercial 5G private networks for the UK market, according to a subsequent release.
The two companies have signed a multi-year agreement that will enable BT to sell next-generation mobile network technology products to businesses and companies in sectors such as manufacturing, defense, education, retail, healthcare, transportation and logistics.
“This groundbreaking agreement with BT means that together we are taking a leading role in ensuring 5G has a transformative impact for the UK. The high-quality, fast and secure connectivity provided by Ericsson Private 5G can help companies acquire all-important skills that can create safer, more productive, and sustainable business activities and help the country become a global leader in industry and technology of the future. ” Said Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK and Ireland.
Ericsson says its private network solution provides indoor and outdoor 5G cellular coverage, making it suitable for environments such as factories, learning campuses and other large sites. The Swedish vendor further noted that private networks enable new applications and IoT capabilities such as asset tracking, predictive maintenance, integrated sensors, real-time data processing, automation and robotics.
Mark Overton, managing director of BT’s Division X, part of its enterprise business, said: “5G private networks will support the advancement of smart factory processes and Industry 4.0, which can bring significant cost savings and efficiency to manufacturers. Unlike a public network, a private 5G network can be configured by individual sites or locations with specific business needs. They also provide the basis for overlaying other innovative technologies such as IoT, AI, VR and AR, which opens the door to many possibilities. “
BT and Ericsson say they have already worked together on several large projects, including private 5G networks, including Belfast Harbor in Northern Ireland.
The partners have installed a 5G private network across 35 acres of the operational port. The vendor noted that the installation is helping to drive operational efficiency to accelerate the port’s digital transformation through optimizing processes across transportation, logistics, supply chain and shipping.
The partnership is also exploring how 5G and other emerging technologies such as AI, IoT and connected autonomous vehicles can be used together to address public safety, physical security and tackling climate change across ports and other parts of Belfast City.
Mike Dawson, Director of Corporate Services, Belfast Harbor Commissioners, said: “Throughout 2021 and by the end of 2022, we will complete the implementation of both public and private 5G networks. These are the foundations of a number of smart and green port initiatives, including; CCTV cameras, air quality monitors, drones, MIFI units to enhance operational efficiency and a digital twin. The technologies have supported our data collection on the movement of people and things through our Road Traffic Screen, Wayfinding App and a Community App for Traffic. “
Related news, Ericsson Announcement The company plans to hire 250 people at its Irish research and development center in Athlon to support the ongoing development of the company’s global 5G portfolio.
The seller says that new employees will be added in the next three years.
Ericsson has had a research and development facility at Athlon since 1979. The Athlon Center, the global R&D headquarters of Ericsson Digital Services OSS (Operations Support Systems), currently employs 1,200 people to build its OSS and Cloud RAN portfolio. Ericsson employs an additional 200 at its Dublin base.
