Ericsson secures multi-year core network deal with SoftBank for 5G SA expansion

Ericsson has signed a multi-year framework agreement with SoftBank to deploy cloud-native core network solutions, supporting Japan's transition to 5G Standalone. The deal covers Ericsson's dual-mode 5G Core, user data consolidation, and cloud-based IMS solutions, enabling AI-driven operations and advanced use cases.

Ericsson has entered into a multi-year framework agreement with SoftBank to deploy next-generation core network solutions across Japan, according to an official announcement. The agreement includes Ericsson's dual-mode 5G Core solution running on its Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution, alongside subscriber data management through User Data Consolidation, policy control, and cloud-based IP Multimedia Subsystem solutions. Ericsson is a Swedish telecommunications equipment and services provider with a global footprint in network infrastructure.

SoftBank is a Japanese telecommunications and technology conglomerate operating mobile networks, broadband, and AI-related businesses. The deployment enables integrated management of existing 4G and 5G services while accelerating SoftBank's transition to 5G Standalone architecture. The agreement supports SoftBank's strategy of merging AI with network operations, enhancing automation and operational efficiency.

The cloud-native architecture is designed to support future 5G Advanced use cases and AI-driven operations across the network. This development matters for the telecommunications industry as operators in advanced markets accelerate 5G SA deployments to unlock network slicing, low-latency applications, and AI-native operational models. Cloud-native core networks represent a foundational shift from traditional appliance-based architectures, enabling greater scalability and feature velocity. For the Japanese telecommunications sector, the agreement reinforces

SoftBank's position in AI-network integration while providing Ericsson with a strategic footprint in a key market. Stakeholders including enterprise customers, IoT developers, and AI service providers stand to benefit from enhanced network capabilities enabled by the core network modernisation.