Telecoms giant SoftBank is partnering with Ericsson to upgrade its 4G and 5G mobile networks across Japan, with a strong emphasis on AI-driven optimisations.
The initiative covers a wide geographic rollout, extending from Hokkaido in the north through the Tokyo metropolitan area and beyond. The objective is to deliver a network that is faster, more resilient, and better able to adapt to user needs in real time.
A central focus of the project is expanding 5G Standalone (5G SA), which provides the full capabilities of next-generation networks without relying on legacy 4G infrastructure. 5G SA enables ultra-low latency, higher capacity, and more consistent performance—critical for advanced applications such as immersive media, industrial automation, and connected mobility.
Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO at SoftBank, said the company will prioritise 5G Standalone deployment alongside extensive AI integration to enhance user experiences for both enterprise and consumer customers across Japan.
“We are confident that adopting Ericsson’s advanced radio technology will accelerate improvements in network quality and operational efficiency through AI,” he added.
Ericsson positions the collaboration as part of a broader shift toward digitalisation. Chafic Nassif, Head of Market Area North East Asia at Ericsson, emphasised that AI and automation will play a key role in improving end-user experiences and helping SoftBank realise its digital leadership goals.
“SoftBank has led connectivity through successive mobile generations. As digitalisation advances, Ericsson will support SoftBank in enhancing customer experiences with AI and automation,” Nassif explained. “This partnership also contributes to Japan’s broader digital economy objectives.”
One notable element of the equipment upgrade is a lighter, easier-to-install 5G antenna that reduces energy consumption by up to 35 percent compared with older models, improving both deployment efficiency and environmental impact. Complementing the antennas are Ericsson’s new baseband units, which house powerful custom chips capable of running AI workloads at the network edge.
By processing intelligence directly on masts and base stations, SoftBank’s network can make real-time decisions to optimise signal quality, prioritise traffic, and resolve issues autonomously while consuming less power. This on-site AI approach aims to turn theoretical benefits into practical improvements for millions of users.
(Image credit: Ericsson)
See also: China dominates the global cellular IoT market
Looking to revamp your digital transformation strategy? Digital Transformation Week takes place in Amsterdam, California, and London and is co-located with major industry events such as IoT Tech Expo, AI & Big Data Expo, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. The series offers practical sessions for organisations seeking to accelerate their digital initiatives.
Explore upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge for additional learning and networking opportunities.