The programme provides Irish telecommunications firm with exclusive access to a worldwide network of 5G startups
The initiative to allow Three Ireland to gain access to Ericsson’s ConsumerLab research data. (Credit: Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson)
Three Ireland has joined Ericsson’s global Startup 5G programme that supports communications service providers (CSPs) to capture the potential of the 5G consumer market.
The Irish telecommunications company is the first company to join the global initiative.
As part of the Startup 5G programme, CSPs will be introduced to technology innovation partners to create next-generation 5G consumer use cases.
By introducing them to consumer innovation partners, the programme is expected to help CSPs to speed up the commercialisation and monetisation of 5G.
According to Ericsson, the programme provides access to a curated list of companies that are engaged in the development of scalable services, devices and applications over 5G.
Ericsson Startup 5G also aims to support CSPs in the development of a go-to-market strategy.
By joining the initiative, Three Ireland will be able to gain access to Ericsson’s ConsumerLab research and analytical data.
In addition, the company will be given exclusive access to a worldwide network of 5G startups.
Ericsson Research ConsumerLab head Jasmeet Singh Sethi said: “We are delighted to have Three Ireland as the first operator in the world to join this exciting initiative.
“With over 20 global 5G startups as part of the program and an ambition to double this by end of 2021, the program offers service providers the ability to deliver exciting new 5G digital services for consumers by collaborating with ecosystem players.
“Three Ireland will be among the front runners globally to provide these compelling new services to the Irish market.”
Three Ireland and Ericsson are already in a partnership to research and develop new 5G consumer offerings like augmented and virtual realities, digital education, e-sports and other immersive media experiences.
According to a joint report by Ericsson ConsumerLab and Omdia, 5G is estimated to present a $3.7 trillion global business opportunity for service providers by 2030.
In January this year, the Swedish telecommunications company launched a 5G network slicing solution for radio access networks (RAN), enabling network operators to deliver new 5G use cases to consumers and enterprises.