AI-RAN

Nokia launched its AI-RAN platform, an “AI-native” radio access network solution developed with NVIDIA. It promises significant spectral efficiency gains, potentially doubling operator capacity without new infrastructure. Offered as a software subscription, it signals a strategic shift from hardware to software development. While a competitor, Ericsson, already offers an AI-in-RAN solution, Nokia’s GPU-accelerated approach and partnership with NVIDIA aim for a leading market position.

MWC 2026 showcased tangible AI-RAN progress, moving beyond discussion to field trials and product launches. Nvidia announced a major coalition committed to building AI-native 6G, releasing open-source AI tools. Nokia demonstrated successful AI-RAN tests with operators, integrating AI and RAN workloads on shared hardware. Ericsson presented an alternative strategy with its own AI-ready silicon. Operators like SK Telecom and SoftBank revealed plans for AI-native infrastructure overhauls. The hardware ecosystem is also maturing with new AI-RAN products. These developments signal a fundamental shift in connectivity delivery and monetization.