The American mobile services provider will get exclusive access to a worldwide network of over 40 5G start-ups
AT&T is the first US service provider to join Ericsson Startup 5G. (Credit: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson)
Ericsson said that AT&T has joined its Ericsson Startup 5G programme, which is designed to enable communications service providers (CSPs) in expediting the commercialisation and monetization of 5G by introducing them to suitable consumer innovation partners.
AT&T has become the first US service provider to join the global 5G innovation collaboration, which is driven by Ericsson’s ConsumerLab.
Ericsson Startup 5G is said to support CSPs develop a go-to-market strategy to address the business opportunity within the 5G consumer market. CSPs that collaborate with the programme are helped by ConsumerLab research and analytical data.
Besides, the participating CSPs get exclusive access to a worldwide network of more than 40 5G start-ups, said Ericsson.
AT&T 5G product and innovation vice president Jay Cary said: “AT&T customers are already enjoying the benefits of our 5G network, with fast speeds, low latency and superior reliability. Now, the network we’ve built is ready to take on more social and immersive experiences that will transform how we live, work and play.
“Tapping into Ericsson’s ConsumerLab and its deep catalogue of companies and innovative ideas could help us bring new experiences to life using technology like AR and VR across a variety of interests, including travel and sports.”
According to Ericsson, the Ericsson Startup 5G programme has a variety of start-ups ranging from developers of next-generation sports experiences to creators of 5G devices with new form factors.
Some of the CSPs which have joined the 5G innovation collaboration include Three Ireland, Telstra, Etisalat, Celcom, and others.
Ericsson research ConsumerLab head Jasmeet Sethi said: “With access to more than 40 global startups, the program offers AT&T a unique opportunity to not only leverage actionable consumer insights from our Ericsson Research Analytical Platform but also connect with innovation partners to emerge, on top of their existing initiatives and programs.”
Last October, Ericsson had signed a five-year agreement with AT&T to help the latter build its 5G network in the US.