SK Telecom (017670) is joining forces with Ericsson to prepare for the sixth-generation (6G) mobile communications era through artificial intelligence-based network innovation.
SK Telecom announced on the 19th that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ericsson to strengthen cooperation on AI-based mobile network technology.
The agreement focuses on joint research and validation of advanced network technologies. It covers various areas including AI-based radio access networks (AI-RAN), 5G advancement, open and autonomous networks, security, and 6G standardization.
In the AI-RAN sector, the companies will pursue technologies that improve performance, security, and energy efficiency by enabling networks to autonomously learn and predict channel environments for optimization. For open and autonomous networks, they agreed to conduct automation research to enhance operational efficiency in multi-vendor environments where equipment from various manufacturers operates together.
In security, the companies plan to strengthen real-time threat response capabilities by introducing a zero-trust framework that fundamentally distrusts all access. For 6G standardization and future technologies, they will jointly research spectrum strategies, Extreme MIMO technology, and integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) technology.
Through this partnership, both companies aim to solidify their global cooperation framework and lead next-generation network evolution. "We will secure world-class technology leadership through global standardization and validation-focused research," said Ryu Tak-ki, Head of Network Technology at SK Telecom. Mårten Lerner, Head of Network Strategy and Products at Ericsson, said, "We will accelerate standardization and validation to enhance performance and security, contributing to strengthening Korea's global leadership."
