- Bell is the first operator globally to field test Ericsson’s AI-native link adaptation technology.
- Real-time AI improved downlink throughput by up to 20% and spectral efficiency by 10%.
- Developed at Ericsson’s Ottawa R&D site, the feature is part of its 5G Advanced portfolio.
Bell Canada and Ericsson announced today they have completed the first global field test of AI-native link adaptation, a next-generation feature in Ericsson’s 5G Advanced portfolio. The test, conducted on Bell’s live network, demonstrated significant improvements in network performance and efficiency by dynamically responding to real-time changes in signal quality and interference.
AI-native link adaptation is designed to optimize spectral efficiency across mobile networks, improving both the quality of user experience and overall network capacity. In testing, the feature delivered up to 20% higher downlink throughput and boosted spectral efficiency by up to 10%, unlocking faster download speeds and more reliable connectivity for users.
Per Narvinger, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Area Networks, Ericsson, said, "At Ericsson, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. Using AI is a key part of our goal to enable high-performing programmable networks. By working with Bell to test this new AI-native link adaptation solution in real-world settings, we're closer to delivering transformative 5G Advanced and future 6G experiences.”
What does 'AI-native' mean?
The AI-native link adaptation technology was developed at Ericsson’s Ottawa R&D hub. According to the release, "AI-native – meaning it integrates AI throughout its sub-components, not as an add-on. It executes on the baseband unit in real-time and enhances performance and robustness in challenging scenarios otherwise hard to optimize for, such as interference and medium and poor channel quality."
AI-native link adaptation also aligns with Ericsson’s involvement as a founding member of the AI-RAN Alliance, which Fierce Network has covered since it's launch at Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.