SoftBank and Fujitsu announced the signing of an agreement aimed at advancing their collaboration on the commercialization of AI-RAN, an innovative architecture combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies.
The agreement outlines the companies’ commitment to joint research and development focused on maximizing RAN performance and enhancing communication quality through AI integration in the AI-RAN framework. As part of their partnership, SoftBank and Fujitsu will also establish a dedicated verification lab at Fujitsu’s facilities in Dallas, Texas, USA.
Both companies are already engaged in a proof-of-concept project for AI-RAN, which began in October 2024. For this outdoor trial, Fujitsu is providing essential vRAN (virtual Radio Access Network) software and Radio Units (RUs). The solution supports Layer 1 software built on the “NVIDIA AI Aerial platform,” running on the NVIDIA GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip. Early results from the proof-of-concept have demonstrated the technology’s ability to manage up to 20 cells per server, ensuring high-quality simultaneous communication.
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in leveraging AI to optimize network operations, with SoftBank and Fujitsu positioning themselves at the forefront of the next-generation telecommunications infrastructure.
SoftBank and Fujitsu have outlined key plans to develop software, enhance network performance, and promote the global adoption of AI-RAN.
Establishment of Verification Lab in Dallas
The two companies will set up a Verification Lab in Dallas, Texas, USA, to serve as a central hub for testing and validating the hardware, software, and applications that make up the AI-RAN architecture. The lab will also be a venue for fostering the understanding and ecosystem around AI-RAN, contributing to its practical application in global markets. This initiative is expected to significantly contribute to accelerating the development of AI-RAN solutions and explore new business opportunities.
Joint Research and Development of vRAN Software
SoftBank and Fujitsu will collaborate on the research and development of vRAN (virtual Radio Access Network) software that integrates AI to maximize the performance of RAN. Building on insights from their current proof-of-concept trials, the companies will apply AI to enhance real-world communication performance, with the goal of driving the widespread commercialization of AI-RAN. This development is poised to improve communication quality, even during times of congestion or mobility, and enable real-time analysis and responses in diverse environments.
Strategic Goals
The joint initiatives aim to significantly improve investment efficiency in mobile infrastructure by refining RAN features and performance with AI. Moreover, the collaboration is expected to foster new services and innovations across industries, enhancing communication quality for users, especially in dynamic environments.
Executive Insights
Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President & CTO of SoftBank, said: “We anticipate advancements in RAN efficiency and sophistication through AI, which will accelerate the practical application of AI-RAN.”
Shingo Mizuno, EVP of Fujitsu, said: “Fujitsu has been engaged in the development of high-performance vRAN software utilizing GPUs for a number of years.”