What's Happening?
Ericsson has announced the introduction of 5G-Advanced location services, a new capability designed to enhance positioning accuracy on commercial 5G Standalone (SA) networks. This service integrates location functionality directly into Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core, eliminating the need for additional sensors or overlay infrastructure. The solution promises high-precision positioning, achieving sub-10 cm outdoor accuracy using Real-Time Kinematics (RTK) and sub-meter indoor precision. This development is aimed at supporting sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, drones, and public safety by providing consistent indoor-outdoor coverage. The platform is set to be released in the first quarter of 2026, with plans to introduce RTK-enabled
devices alongside it.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of 5G-Advanced location services by Ericsson is significant as it addresses the growing demand for precise, network-based location services across various industries. By embedding positioning capabilities directly into the 5G network, Ericsson enables service providers to offer differentiated services that require high precision, such as geofencing and asset tracking. This innovation is expected to drive growth in the global market for 5G positioning, which is still in its early stages. The ability to provide accurate location data without additional infrastructure could lead to cost savings and increased efficiency for businesses, particularly in sectors where location accuracy is critical.
What's Next?
Ericsson plans to release the 5G-Advanced location services in early 2026, with the introduction of RTK-enabled devices to follow. As the demand for precise location services grows, other telecommunications companies may also develop similar solutions, potentially leading to increased competition in the market. The adoption of this technology could prompt industries to explore new applications and services that leverage high-precision positioning, further driving innovation and development in the 5G ecosystem.
