Ericsson and Intel Expand Strategic Technology Partnership to Accelerate Industry Readiness for AI Native 6G Networks

Ericsson and Intel Expand Strategic Technology Partnership to Accelerate Industry Readiness for AI Native 6G Networks

(IN BRIEF) Ericsson and Intel have strengthened their long-standing partnership to accelerate the development and commercial readiness of AI-native 6G networks. The collaboration focuses on combining computing, connectivity, and cloud technologies across radio access networks, packet core systems, and edge environments. By working together on advanced computing architectures, security capabilities, and cloud-native network solutions, the companies aim to support a more efficient and open path toward 6G deployment. The initiative also aligns with industry standards development and ecosystem collaboration while building on previous achievements in Cloud RAN and 5G Core technologies. Joint demonstrations at Mobile World Congress 2026 highlight the progress made in preparing future AI-driven network infrastructure.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 2-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Ericsson and Intel have announced an expanded collaboration focused on preparing the telecommunications ecosystem for the transition to AI-native 6G networks. The joint initiative, unveiled at Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2026, builds on a long-standing partnership and aims to support the evolution of next-generation mobile networks from research concepts into commercially deployable technologies.

The cooperation will combine expertise in connectivity, computing, and cloud technologies to support AI-driven network architectures. Work will span multiple network domains, including radio access networks, packet core systems, and edge computing environments. The companies will also focus on strengthening platform-level security and improving the performance of cloud-native network solutions to help accelerate industry readiness for future deployments.

Ericsson President and Chief Executive Officer Börje Ekholm emphasized that 6G will represent a major shift in mobile communications by enabling artificial intelligence to operate seamlessly across devices, edge infrastructure, and cloud environments. He highlighted Ericsson’s experience in deploying large-scale operator networks as a key factor in advancing practical implementation and commercialization of 6G technologies.

Intel Chief Executive Officer Lip-Bu Tan stated that the collaboration aims to integrate AI capabilities across radio access networks, core networks, and edge infrastructure. He noted that Intel’s advanced semiconductor manufacturing technologies and processor platforms will support future Ericsson silicon developments as well as flexible Cloud RAN deployments built on Intel Xeon processors. These developments are expected to deliver improvements in performance, efficiency, and supply resilience for network operators.

As the industry moves toward commercialization of 6G, both companies stress the importance of a coordinated ecosystem aligned with international standards organizations and industry partners. The collaboration will focus on developing high-performance computing architectures that support both AI-enabled network operations and network infrastructure optimized for artificial intelligence workloads.

AI-native 6G networks are expected to combine programmable infrastructure, advanced computing, and real-time sensing capabilities, creating a foundation for new digital services and improved operational efficiency. Over time, tighter integration between sensing technologies and distributed computing resources is expected to reshape network capabilities.

Ericsson and Intel will present several joint technology demonstrations at Mobile World Congress 2026, including innovations in Cloud RAN, 5G Core, and open network infrastructure. The demonstrations will be showcased at Ericsson’s exhibition space, Intel’s stand, and partner event locations throughout the event.

ABOUT ERICSSON:
Ericsson’s high-performing networks provide connectivity for billions of people every day. For 150 years, we’ve been pioneers in creating technology for communication. We offer mobile communication and connectivity solutions for service providers and enterprises. Together with our customers and partners, we make the digital world of tomorrow a reality. www.ericsson.com

ABOUT INTEL:
Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is an industry leader, creating world-changing technology that enables global progress and enriches lives. Inspired by Moore’s Law, we continuously work to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors to help address our customers’ greatest challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge and every kind of computing device, we unleash the potential of data to transform business and society for the better. To learn more about Intel’s innovations, go to newsroom.intel.com and intel.com.

© Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

Related links:
6G – Follow the journey to the next generation networks – Ericsson

Ericsson pioneers Cloud RAN call with HPE server and Intel

Ericsson’s first Cloud RAN call on Intel Xeon 6 with Dell

Ericsson and Intel hit milestones in Tech Hub collaboration

Ericsson, Intel advance optimized 5G

Media Contacts:

Ericsson
media.relations@ericsson.com  (+46 10 719 69 92)
investor.relations@ericsson.com  (+46 10 719 00 00)

Intel
email: contactpr@intel.com

SOURCE: Ericsson