Swedish telecom giant Ericsson has taken a significant step in advancing India's 5G ecosystem by deploying cutting-edge core technology to support Bharti Airtel’s transition to a 5G standalone (SA) network. This development marks a pivotal shift for Airtel, enabling it to enhance network capacity and deliver next-generation digital services.
Airtel’s 5G Standalone Rollout: Key Highlights
- Deployment in 12 Telecom Circles: Airtel has awarded Ericsson the contract to implement 5G SA technology across 12 of India’s 22 telecom circles.
- Enhanced Network Performance: The deployment of Ericsson’s 5G core solutions will provide increased speed, lower latency, and improved user experience.
- Signalling Controller Integration: As part of the agreement, Ericsson will deploy its advanced Signalling Controller solution within Airtel's infrastructure to optimize network efficiency.
What is a 5G Standalone Network?
Unlike Airtel’s current non-standalone (NSA) 5G network, which operates on a 4G foundation, a standalone (SA) network is designed to work exclusively on 5G technology. This transition will:
- Enable ultra-fast connectivity and lower latency.
- Support advanced use cases such as network slicing and API-based services.
- Improve efficiency for industrial applications, smart cities, and cloud gaming.
Industry Leaders on the Transition
Airtel’s Chief Technology Officer, Randeep Sekhon, emphasized the strategic importance of this deployment, stating:
“Ericsson's enduring partnership with Airtel has entered an exciting new phase, marked by the deployment of Ericsson's 5G core solutions to support Airtel's transition to 5G Standalone. This rollout will play a pivotal role in Airtel's long-term 5G strategy.”
Similarly, Andres Vicente, Head of Market Area Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, highlighted the broader impact:
“This deployment is a significant step towards making Bharti Airtel’s network 5G Standalone ready and future-proof. Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G core enables monetization through network slicing-based services and network API exposure, unlocking innovative use cases for consumers and enterprises.”
What This Means for Airtel Users
While Airtel currently operates a hybrid 4G-5G network, the transition to a full 5G SA network will take time. Users can expect:
- Faster Speeds & Lower Latency: Once fully deployed, 5G SA will significantly improve download/upload speeds and response times.
- Better Network Reliability: Reduced congestion and enhanced connectivity in crowded areas.
- New Digital Experiences: Future-ready services like cloud gaming, AR/VR applications, and advanced IoT solutions.
Challenges in 5G SA Adoption
Despite its benefits, moving to a standalone 5G network requires significant investment, infrastructure upgrades, and ecosystem readiness. It may take time before Airtel fully transitions to SA 5G nationwide.
Final Thoughts
Airtel’s collaboration with Ericsson underscores its commitment to spearheading India’s digital transformation. With 5G SA technology, the telecom operator is paving the way for a more connected and innovative future.
Stay tuned for further updates on Airtel’s 5G rollout and its impact on India’s telecom landscape.
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