SK Telecom has partnered with Ericsson to accelerate the development of AI-driven network technologies and strengthen its position in the transition toward 6G.
The company announced on March 19 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ericsson to expand cooperation across areas ranging from 5G enhancement to next-generation 6G technologies. The partnership aims to reinforce 5G competitiveness in the short term while securing leadership in 6G standardization and core technologies over the longer term.
The collaboration covers a broad range of next-generation network technologies, including AI-based radio access networks (AI-RAN), 5G evolution, open and autonomous networks, security, and 6G research and standardization. The focus is on improving both network performance and operational efficiency.
In the AI-RAN domain, the two companies plan to develop technologies that enable networks to autonomously learn and predict traffic patterns and channel conditions, allowing for optimized resource allocation. This is expected to enhance performance while improving energy efficiency and strengthening security capabilities.
For 5G, the partnership will focus on advancing network capabilities to support new services, particularly in the enterprise (B2B) segment, as well as enabling ultra-low latency and high-speed applications.
In the area of open and autonomous networks, SK Telecom and Ericsson will work to enhance automation technologies that support stable operations in multi-vendor environments. This approach is intended to reduce dependency on specific vendors while improving overall network efficiency.
On the security front, the companies plan to adopt a zero-trust architecture with continuous verification systems to strengthen protection across networks and devices, with a forward-looking approach that extends into the 6G era.
The two companies will also collaborate on key 6G technologies, including extreme MIMO, integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), next-generation spectrum strategies, and energy-efficient network design. They plan to actively participate in global standardization efforts.
Industry observers view the partnership as a strategic move aimed at gaining a competitive edge in the global race for 6G leadership. AI-driven automation and optimization are increasingly seen as critical factors shaping the future of the telecommunications industry.
An SK Telecom official stated that the collaboration with Ericsson will serve as a key foundation for accelerating AI-based network evolution while preparing for the 6G era, adding that the company will continue to strengthen its technological leadership through field-driven research and active participation in global standardization initiatives.
