A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed by Nokia and Telefónica Germany to establish a joint 5G Innovation Cluster.
Within this shared 5G Innovation Cluster, Nokia will deploy key technologies such as Massive MIMO to deliver high throughput and Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) to support ultra‑reliable, low‑latency communications (URLLC).
Both companies will collaborate on piloting network solutions and technologies for the transition to 5G at Telefónica’s lab in Munich. These lab trials will be followed by tests in Telefónica’s live network to ensure an optimal experience for customers. Berlin has been identified as a priority location for these trials, aiming to develop a benchmark network that integrates 4.5G, 4.9G and 5G technologies. Under the agreement, Nokia will concentrate its efforts on conducting trials that maximize the use of existing network assets, helping Telefónica respond to changing demand and explore new commercial opportunities.
Cayetano Carbajo, CTO of Telefónica Germany, commented: “Our innovation collaboration in Germany follows a global agreement with Nokia to explore technologies on the path to 5G. Access to Nokia’s latest portfolio enables pre‑testing and evaluation of new technologies, helping us further enhance the user experience on our network.”
Separately, mobile technology R&D firm InterDigital has completed successful trials of its millimeter‑wave (mmWave) EdgeLink 60 GHz solution and Fast‑Forward 70 GHz solution. Alan Carlton, VP of InterDigital Europe, said the successful tests pave the way for additional trials, including 5G Crosshaul alongside 5G New Radio and 5G Core Network evaluations planned for 2018 and 2019, which will support the commercial deployment of 5G networks.