What's Happening?
Ericsson has announced the introduction of its 5G-Advanced location services, a new positioning capability designed for 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 offers high-precision positioning, achieving sub-10 cm outdoor accuracy using Real-Time Kinematics (RTK) and sub-meter indoor precision. This innovation is aimed at supporting location-based services across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, automotive, drones, and public safety. The platform is designed to provide consistent indoor-outdoor coverage using a unified 5G positioning framework, allowing enterprises and developers to access network-based location data without requiring device-side applications.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Ericsson's 5G-Advanced location services represents a significant advancement in the telecommunications industry, particularly for sectors where precise location data is critical. By embedding positioning capabilities directly into the 5G network, Ericsson enables service providers to offer enhanced location-based services, which can lead to improved operational efficiencies and new service offerings. This development is particularly relevant for industries such as healthcare and public safety, where accurate location data can enhance service delivery and safety measures. Additionally, the reduction in battery consumption compared to satellite-based alternatives presents a cost-effective solution for enterprises.
What's Next?
Ericsson plans to release the 5G-Advanced location services in the first quarter of 2026, alongside RTK-enabled devices. As the global market for 5G positioning is still in its early stages, the demand for precise, network-based location services is expected to grow. This could lead to increased adoption of Ericsson's solution across various industries, potentially setting a new standard for location accuracy in 5G networks. The company’s integrated approach to indoor and outdoor positioning may also influence other vendors to develop similar capabilities, further advancing the telecommunications landscape.
