SoftBank Corp (SoftBank) and Fujitsu Limited (Fujitsu) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on October 25, 2024 to strengthen their collaboration in developing AI-RAN, a new architecture combining artificial intelligence (AI) with Radio Access Networks (RAN), aiming for commercialisation by 2026. Under this agreement, the companies will initiate joint research and development of software to improve RAN performance and communication quality through AI on the "AI-RAN". A verification lab will also be established at Fujitsu's Dallas, Texas, site to validate AI-RAN technology and foster ecosystem development, the companies said in a joint statement Wednesday.
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SoftBank and Fujitsu AI-RAN Partnership
This MoU builds on an outdoor proof-of-concept for AI-RAN, launched by SoftBank in October 2024, that leverages Fujitsu's virtual RAN (vRAN) software and Radio Units (RUs), utilising the Nvidia GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip and Nvidia AI Aerial technology. So far, the companies have confirmed their ability to manage high-quality simultaneous communication for up to 20 cells per server.
"The solution supports Layer 1 software developed based on the Nvidia AI Aerial platform, running on the Nvidia GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip," SoftBank said in a joint statement.
To drive AI-RAN commercialisation, the companies will jointly commence the following:
Establishment of a Verification Lab
Located in Dallas, Texas, USA the lab will serve as a hub for testing and validating AI-RAN hardware, software, and applications, while promoting a broader AI-RAN ecosystem for future business development and global market adoption.
Joint R&D on vRAN Software for AI for RAN
Drawing from the outdoor proof-of-concept, SoftBank and Fujitsu will jointly advance vRAN software using AI to enhance real-world communication performance and contribute to efficient mobile infrastructure investment. AI-driven RAN performance enhancements will aim to improve user experience even during congestion and movement, providing real-time response and analysis.
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Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO, SoftBank Corp said, "We are excited to take a step forward toward the commercialisation of AI-RAN through this strengthened partnership. We anticipate further advancements in RAN efficiency and sophistication through AI, which will accelerate the practical application of AI-RAN."
Shingo Mizuno, Corporate Executive Officer EVP, Vice Head of System Platform (in charge of Network Business), Fujitsu Limited said, "Fujitsu has been engaged in the development of high-performance vRAN software utilising GPUs for a number of years. By strengthening our partnership with SoftBank, Fujitsu aims to accelerate the creation of new business through combining the technologies and practical knowledge of both companies at a higher level, and provide increased value to customers and society."
