How Are Ericsson & Vodafone Using AI to Modernise Networks?

Ericsson and Vodafone have entered a five-year strategic partnership centred on deploying AI and automation to modernise Vodafone’s European network infrastructure.

The agreement will see Vodafone implement Ericsson’s programmable network solutions and AI-powered applications across several key markets, signalling a shift towards intelligent network management.

The deal builds on a previous agreement involving Vodafone Three, which signed an eight-year partnership with Ericsson in September. This new collaboration positions Ericsson as a key technology provider for Vodafone.

Under the terms, Ericsson will become the sole RAN vendor for Vodafone in the Netherlands, Portugal and Ireland, in addition to being a significant vendor in Romania, Egypt and Germany. 

The partnership facilitates an upgrade to Vodafone’s RAN infrastructure and management, supporting the rollout of 5G Standalone and enabling a variety of connectivity solutions with features focused on speed, reliability and efficiency for both consumer and business customers.

AI-powered network optimisation

A core component of the agreement is the introduction of Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform and its suite of AI-powered applications known as rApps.

Delivered on a market-by-market basis, this platform is designed to provide automated RAN optimisation, improved energy efficiency and streamlined management of multi-vendor networks.

The integration of AI is intended to create a network that can run more intelligently, building systems capable of self-healing and proactive maintenance.

This could ensure Vodafone’s service remains fast, reliable and prepared for future demands.

Phased rollout and 5G advanced

The initial implementation of the AI platform and rApps for Ericsson and multi-vendor RAN management is scheduled for Germany in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Beyond the automation platform, the partnership will see Vodafone deploy Ericsson’s Open RAN-compatible Massive MIMO radios and RAN Compute solutions.

These will be complemented by 5G Advanced RAN software capabilities running across its networks.

The system uses AI and automation to enable immediate network management, improved operation and energy efficiency. It could also create space for new revenue opportunities in different connectivity services.

Alberto Ripepi, Chief Network Officer at Vodafone Group, says: “This strategic partnership with Ericsson marks a major step in our network evolution journey. By modernising our network with the latest-generation equipment and embracing high-performing new 5G Advanced capabilities, we’re transforming our infrastructure for the best customer experience and high-network efficiency, utilising automation and AI agents to seamlessly meet network demands in real time.

“We’re also laying the groundwork to capitalise on the emerging market for network APIs through our joint venture, Aduna. This powerful combination will allow us to expose our network capabilities to developers, spurring a wave of innovation in applications and services, and positioning Vodafone as a leader in network technology and innovation.”

Programmable networks and future innovation

The collaboration aims to establish high-performing programmable network architectures which can adapt and scale while fostering innovation and the development of new use cases in Vodafone’s markets.

Patrick Johansson Ericsson, Senior Vice President and Head of Market Area Europe, Middle East and Africa, explained that the partnership aligns with Ericsson’s vision for such networks.

Johansson says: “We are proud to expand our long-standing relationship with Vodafone through this transformative agreement. This partnership aligns with our vision for high-performing programmable networks, laying a robust foundation for Vodafone to deliver differentiated connectivity experiences.

“By enabling innovative, performance-based solutions across consumer and enterprise segments, we’re opening new opportunities for service monetisation and powering the next wave of telecommunications innovation.”

By integrating AI and automation into the core of its network evolution, Vodafone aims to create a more resilient and efficient infrastructure ready for future technological advancements.