How Nokia is Using AI to Transform 5G Networks with Nvidia

Telecommunications operators are integrating AI capabilities into 5G networks to manage increasing data volumes and automate operations that previously required constant manual intervention. 

But the shift requires rethinking where processing happens – moving intelligence from distant data centres to the network edge where it can make split-second decisions.

In response, Nokia has signed a four-year extension with TNN to remain the sole supplier of 5G radio access networks and managed services across Denmark. 

The Finnish telecoms equipment manufacturer will modernise the nationwide network using its AirScale RAN portfolio to support services for more than three million subscribers.

Meanwhile, TNN operates Denmark’s largest shared mobile network as a joint venture between Norlys, an energy and telecoms company and Telenor, the Norwegian telecommunications provider. 

The programme focuses on AI-ready and autonomous capabilities designed to increase service quality, speeds and capacity.

Daniel Askeroth, Senior Vice President (SVP) Telco at Norlys, says: “We are focused on delivering the best network to our customers across Denmark. That is why we continue to invest in best-in-class mobile network infrastructure to improve the network performance and customer experience. 

“Partnering with Nokia will provide us with an autonomous, AI-powered 5G network, enabling us to offer the best services to our customers and embracing the opportunities of 5G and beyond.”

Nvidia’s role in Nokia’s AI ready infrastructure 

The announcement follows Nokia’s disclosure that Nvidia will invest US$1bn in the company to develop AI-RAN innovation and support the transition from 5G to 6G networks. 

AI-RAN refers to radio access networks that integrate AI processing capabilities directly into network infrastructure, handling computation where data originates rather than routing everything to remote servers.

Justin Hotard, President and CEO at Nokia, says: “The next leap in telecom isn’t just from 5G to 6G - it’s a fundamental redesign of the network to deliver AI-powered connectivity, capable of processing intelligence from the data centre all the way to the edge. 

“Our partnership with Nvidia and their investment in Nokia, will accelerate AI-RAN innovation to put an AI data centre into everyone’s pocket.”

He adds: “We’re proud to drive this industry transformation with Nvidia, Dell Technologies and T-Mobile US, our first AI-RAN deployments in T-Mobile’s network will ensure America leads in the advanced connectivity that AI needs.”

This architecture matters because it reduces latency for applications that cannot tolerate delays – autonomous vehicles making navigation decisions, industrial robots coordinating movements, or augmented reality systems rendering virtual objects in real environments.

How Nokia’s MantaRay suite incorporates AI for self-optimising network operations

Nokia will also supply Habrok Massive MIMO radios and Pandion multi-band remote radio heads across urban, suburban and rural areas.

Massive MIMO refers to multiple-input multiple-output technology that uses arrays of antennas to transmit and receive multiple data streams simultaneously – essentially allowing the network to serve more users with better speeds.

The deployment includes AI-ready AirScale baseband platforms designated Ponente, Lodos and Levante, which provide throughput and energy efficiency to accommodate traffic growth. 

These platforms use Nokia’s ReefShark system-on-chip technology, which integrates processing functions onto specialised silicon to reduce power consumption and physical footprint.

TNN will adopt Nokia’s MantaRay suite for network management and optimisation. 

MantaRay SON provides self-organising network functions that automatically configure and optimise network parameters without human intervention. 

MantaRay AutoPilot also uses intent-based AI-driven control to orchestrate these modules in real time, adjusting network behaviour based on performance targets rather than requiring engineers to manually tweak settings.

Louise Haurum, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) at Telenor Denmark, says: “Renewing our 5G partnership with Nokia marks a significant step forward in delivering seamless, high-performance connectivity to our customers. 

“The collaboration empowers us to accelerate innovation, enhance network resilience and bring transformative digital experiences to homes and businesses across Denmark.”

Mark Atkinson, Head of Radio Access Network at Nokia, says: “This enhanced deal with TNN reflects our strong partnership and Nokia’s position as a trusted technology provider delivering industry-leading 5G solutions and advanced AI and automation capabilities for enhanced operational efficiency and network quality. 

“We are helping TNN expand 5G coverage and capacity to deliver best-in-class connectivity experiences and new digital services to its customers.”