What's Happening?
Ericsson has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Vietnamese telecom operator Viettel to jointly develop autonomous network technologies. This collaboration, revealed at the Mobile World Congress 2026, aims to explore and implement AI-driven
closed-loop automation and performance optimization in network operations. The partnership will focus on creating practical use cases that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience, particularly through the automation of network operations and Radio Access Network (RAN) optimization. The initial phase involves piloting Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) and AI rApps to integrate AI into the network. Viettel will also join the EIAP ecosystem, gaining access to a directory of nearly 90 rApps and a dedicated Developer Portal to aid in its own rApp development.
Why It's Important?
This partnership is significant as it represents a step forward in the integration of AI into telecommunications, potentially transforming how networks are managed. By automating network operations, Viettel aims to improve service agility and reduce operational costs, which is crucial for supporting complex 5G and future 6G use cases. The collaboration could set a precedent for other telecom operators looking to leverage AI for network management, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and reliability of telecom services. This development is particularly relevant as the demand for high-speed, reliable network services continues to grow globally, driven by the increasing adoption of digital technologies.
What's Next?
The next steps involve the implementation of the pilot projects using Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform and AI rApps. As Viettel integrates these technologies, it will likely focus on developing its own rApps with the support of Ericsson’s tools and GenAI development assistant. The success of these pilot projects could lead to broader adoption of AI-driven network management solutions across Viettel’s operations and potentially influence other telecom operators to follow suit. Stakeholders in the telecom industry will be watching closely to assess the impact of these technologies on network performance and customer satisfaction.
