SoftBank and Ericsson boost 5G performance via AI-native RAN trial

SoftBank and Ericsson have successfully trialed AI-native Radio Access Network (RAN) technology on a commercial 5G network in Japan. The trial utilized Ericsson’s AI-native Scheduler for Link Adaptation, which applies artificial intelligence directly within the baseband equipment to make real-time decisions based on changing network conditions.

The implementation resulted in significant performance gains, including up to a 50 percent increase in downlink user throughput and a 25 percent improvement in spectral efficiency compared to conventional rule-based algorithms. On average across all evaluated locations, the technology provided a 10 percent increase in both metrics, demonstrating its ability to optimize existing infrastructure without requiring additional spectrum or hardware.