As a part of the multi-million investment, the Swedish telecommunications firm will establish a new research unit in the UK to bolster the country’s future wireless connectivity capabilities
Ericsson to invest tens of millions of pounds in 6G research in the UK. (Credit: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson)
Ericsson plans to invest tens of millions of pounds over the next 10 years in the UK to focus on 6G research and promote the global development of future communications and standards of the mobile network technology.
As a part of the multi-million investment, the Swedish telecommunications firm will establish a new research unit in the UK to bolster the country’s capabilities in future wireless connectivity.
The research areas are expected to include artificial intelligence (AI), network resilience and security, energy efficiency, and cognitive networks.
Ericsson UK and Ireland CEO Katherine Ainley said: “Ericsson has been connecting the UK for more than 120 years and this new investment underlines our ongoing commitment to ensure the country remains a global leader in the technologies and industries of the future.
“Our vision for a more connected, safer and sustainable world is one that is shared by the UK government, and we look forward to working together with network operators, industries and academia to develop international standards that will move us ever closer to achieving seamless global connectivity and truly groundbreaking innovation.”
The 6G programme intends to employ 20 researchers and support additional PhD students to work together with communications service providers, academics, and industry partners to lead the research projects.
Ericsson said that 6G is expected to combine the digital and physical world, contributing to a more smarter, sustainable, and efficient society.
It is also anticipated to help in delivering new use cases that include multi-sensory extended reality, smart agriculture, cobots, precision healthcare, and intelligent autonomous systems.
6G is anticipated to become available in the 2030s, said the company.
Ericsson research vice president and head Magnus Frodigh said: “Ericsson is at the forefront of global research, innovation and developing open standards that will underpin a future of limitless connectivity and new technologies.
“Establishing a research program in the UK means the country will be well positioned to utilise its existing high international level of knowledge in wireless systems and technologies to produce ground-breaking 6G research that not only can help shape the future of global standards but also deliver a more connected, efficient and sustainable society.”