ERICSSON - Experts & Thought Leaders

The new Ericsson Compact Packet Core includes the cloud-native Packet Core Controller (PCC) and Packet Core Gateway (PCG) network functions on top of a compact, one rack, version of Ericsson's Cloud-Native Infrastructure Solution (CNIS).  It is a global solution with pre-defined parameter settings and streamlined migration procedures that simplifies transition to cloud-native and maximises efficient return on investment in this key network infrastructure. Compact Packet Core fully supports 4G, 5G Non-Standalone (NSA), and 5G Standalone (SA) networks, providing CSPs with the capabilities needed to meet their strategic and operational needs. Latest software innovation and security Compact Packet Core is launched with solution lifecycle management service where Ericsson oversees automated upgrades of the network. This brings benefits such as seamless upgrades, and networks that are always up to date with the latest software innovation and security. Monica Zethzon, Head of Solution Area Core Networks, Ericsson, says: “With this solution, we are providing a new approach for upgrading to cloud-native and introducing 5G Core, built on our deep experience with the world’s most advanced networks. It significantly simplifies modernization while unlocking the full potential of our world-class cloud-native software. We are proud to introduce the Ericsson Compact Packet Core for CSPs looking to accelerate their cloud-native journey and manage capacity growth.” Key cloud-native features  New solution delivers the simplicity of the “appliance” approach and adds to it by inheriting the key benefits The new solution delivers the simplicity of the “appliance” approach and adds to it by inheriting the key benefits from being cloud native. It supports key cloud-native features such as automation, In-Service Software Upgrades (ISSU), Container-as-a-Service rolling upgrades (CaaS RU) and gives CSPs the flexibility to adapt the network to new use cases or workloads as they grow and evolve their services to customers. It delivers an optimized and validated configuration for deployment of the packet core network functions on CNIS to maximise ease of deployment, migration, and software upgrades, reducing overall complexity. With the pre-defined configurations of this solution a CSP has 80 percent fewer parameters to adjust when deploying and will enable up to 30% reduction in energy and hardware footprint due to its inbuilt capability to support the latest CPU generations as they evolve. Ericsson Packet Core software  The solution has been created to solve specific challenges that CSPs are facing when transitioning from legacy infrastructure and is designed to simplify operations across the board. It guarantees seamless service continuation and retention of a CSPs business logic underpinning its technological configuration during installation, migration, upgrades, and expansions. The proven Ericsson Packet Core software is used for all deployment scenarios including Compact Packet Core to secure interoperability. Glen Hunt, Principal Analyst at GlobalData says: “It is no secret that CSPs face common and testing challenges when upgrading their cloud deployment models to introduce or expand the benefits of a cloud-native operating model or lead towards the deployment of 5G Core. Ericsson’s Compact Packet Core removes the barrier to deployment that comes with lengthy interoperability and integration testing by virtue of being a pre-integrated solution, and its in-built configurations and reduced footprint demands mean a less costly, complex and time-consuming migration is possible.” Ericsson Mobility Report  Separate Ericsson research in Europe showed consumers are willing to pay up to 15% on top of their ticket The move to cloud-native is well underway, with growing momentum evident in the market. As of October 2024, Ericsson has 120+ unique 5G Core or cloud-native commercial contracts, with 55+ live dual-mode 5G Core solution customers (including EPC, 5G NSA, and 5G SA live customers). Also clear is the growing appetite for 5G SA. Ericsson Mobility Report research indicates close to 60% of 5G subscriptions - 3.6 billion - will be 5G SA in 2030.  Separate Ericsson research in Europe showed consumers are willing to pay up to 15% on top of their ticket to improve their connectivity and app experience at large events such as concerts or sporting occasions. 5G SA best allows CSPs to meet this requirement by introducing differentiated connectivity offerings like reserving a part of their network to provide assured quality of experience for specific users or apps. Ericsson dual-mode 5G Core solution Ericsson was recently placed as a pioneer in the Market Landscape: Core Vendors 2024 report from analyst house Omdia, with the highest overall portfolio score of the vendors assessed having the top spot in both cloud native readiness, automation, and policy and charging. It was also named a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for CSP 5G Core Network Infrastructure Solutions, and named top of Frost Radar™ 5G network infrastructure market ranking for the fourth year running in an analysis that covers RAN, transport and core networks. Ericsson currently powers 37 of the world’s 60+ commercially live 5G SA networks, with its RAN solutions and the cloud-native Ericsson dual-mode 5G Core solution.

5G Standalone (5G SA) and 5G Advanced are expected to be a key focus for communications service providers (CSPs) for the remainder of the decade as they deploy new capabilities to create offerings centred on value delivery rather than data volume. The analysis is included among a wealth of statistical network insights in the November 2024 edition of the Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) Mobility Report, which extends the forecast period until the end of 2030. Network traffic data growth 5G networks are expected to carry about 80% of total mobile data traffic by the end of 2030 While the rate of mobile network traffic data growth is declining - estimated at 21 percent year-on-year for 2024 - it is still expected to grow almost three-fold by the end of 2030 from present-day numbers. Globally, 5G networks are expected to carry about 80 percent of total mobile data traffic by the end of 2030 - compared to 34 percent by the end of 2024. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are set to have 47 percent 5G subscription penetration by 2024. It is projected that the GCC will have the highest 5G penetration in 2030 at 93 percent, followed closely by Western Europe at 92 percent and North America at 91 percent. GCC region’s economic outlook Characterised by high mobile penetration, urbanisation, and strong consumer purchasing power, the GCC region’s economic outlook remains favourable, driven largely by sectors such as tourism, technology, and renewable energy. In the telecom industry, a key trend is the transformation of service providers from traditional telcos to technology companies. This transition is being fuelled by the rollout of 5G, enabling the introduction of advanced services, including AI and the cloud solutions and services, factory automation and content delivery where network slicing will be critical in delivering these services. Mobile subscriptions Mobile subscriptions in the GCC countries are forecast to grow at an annual rate of 3% High-performance networks, application programming interfaces (APIs) and a vibrant developer community are expected to drive growth.  Up to 2030, overall mobile subscriptions in the GCC countries are forecast to grow at an annual rate of 3 percent, reaching 95 million. By the end of the decade, 93 percent of all subscriptions are expected to be 5G, with 88 million users adopting this technology. Future of mobile networks Nicolas Blixell, Vice President and Head of Gulf Cooperation Council Countries at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, says: “The November 2024 Ericsson Mobility Report highlights the pivotal role of 5G Standalone and 5G Advanced in the future of mobile networks, particularly in regions like the GCC, where high mobile penetration and rapid urbanisation are driving demand for advanced connectivity." "These technologies are set to enable capabilities such as programmable networks and AI connectivity-driven use cases, creating new opportunities for growth and innovation. As service providers in the GCC and beyond adopt these advancements, they will unlock the full potential of 5G, driving digital transformation and enhancing the way industries and consumers engage with technology.” Global 5G subscriptions Of about 320 CSPs currently offering commercial 5G services globally, less than 20 percent are 5G Standalone (SA). However, almost 60 percent of the 6.3 billion global 5G subscriptions forecast by the end of 2030 are expected to be 5G SA subscriptions. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) continues to grow in popularity globally as the second largest 5G use case after enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB). Generative AI applications Service providers are already offering value delivery models based on differentiated connectivity  The report highlights how early-mover service providers are already offering value delivery models based on differentiated connectivity - guaranteed uninterrupted high-end connectivity when you need it most - to create new monetisation and growth opportunities.  The report also addresses how AI, including Generative AI Applications - already integrated across smartphones, laptops, watches and FWA products - could impact uplink and downlink network traffic, driving potential mobile traffic growth beyond current baseline predictions. Ericsson Mobility Report Other featured report statistics include the projection that global 5G subscriptions are expected to reach almost 2.3 billion by the end of 2024, amounting to 25 percent of all global mobile subscriptions. 5G subscription numbers are expected to overtake the global number of 4G subscriptions during 2027. The first 6G deployments are expected in 2030, building on and scaling the capabilities of 5G SA and 5G Advanced. Ericsson will host Ericsson Mobility Report online seminars at 09.00 (CET) and at 18.00 (CET) on Tuesday, December 3. Based on unique Ericsson and partner network insights, the Ericsson Mobility Report has been the key industry reference for network data, performance, statistics, and forecasts since its launch in 2011.

RealWear, Inc., the pioneer of hands-free wearable computers for frontline workers, announced the launch of its next-generation Intrinsically Safe (IS) headset, RealWear Navigator® Z1. Built for productivity and safety in industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and mining, the hands-free IS wearable solution frees a worker’s hands to make operations smarter, safer, and more efficient.  Industrial wearable solution Whether conducting an inspection round on a rig at sea or repairing mission-critical production equipment, RealWear Navigator Z1 is certified for use in areas where nearly all electronics are strictly prohibited due to the potential risk of explosion or combustion. The industrial wearable solution can be used on sites including oil and gas production areas, processing mills, chemical facilities, and mines. Smartest and lightest IS wearable We’re keen to introduce AI Core and 5G IS connectivity to create a new frontier of smart, connected wearable solutions" “With the launch of RealWear Navigator Z1, we’re offering the smartest and lightest IS wearable with integrated battery available to frontline workers who work in some of the most challenging sites on earth,” said Dr. Chris Parkinson, co-founder and CEO of RealWear. “These workers are often still outfitted, frankly, with ineffective or old equipment. In addition to the extensive range of upgrades of our latest headset, we’re especially keen to introduce AI Core and 5G IS connectivity to create a new frontier of smart, connected wearable solutions for frontline workers.”  Purpose-built to reduce downtime  According to a research study by Kimberlite, as noted in a GE perspective paper titled, 'The Impact of Digital on Unplanned Downtime, 'Just 3.65 downtime days per year can cost organisations $5.037 million each year.' 'Averaging just over 27 days of downtime each year, offshore oil and gas organisations experience $38 million in financial impacts from unplanned downtime.' Remote expert guidance and virtual training RealWear Navigator Z1 is specially designed for use cases that include equipment troubleshooting Workers racing to get equipment back online face an array of challenges, including extended work hours, high stress, adverse weather, and communication issues. RealWear Navigator Z1 is specially designed for use cases that include equipment troubleshooting via remote expert guidance, and virtual training, as well as for workers using field services management (FSM) or streamlined inspection data management systems (IDMS).  Navigator Z1 capabilities The new capabilities of RealWear Navigator Z1, when used with purpose-built software, enable optimised hands-free solutions for: Remote expert guidance and training. Remote experts can conduct in-the-moment maintenance and repair, potentially reducing costly travel and downtime using popular apps like Microsoft Teams and Zoom; Field Services Management (FSM). Using just simple voice commands, workers can connect to FSM enterprise AI systems such as hands-free solutions from RealWear and OverIT to handle work orders safely and quickly, and conduct asset maintenance at reduced operational costs; and, Equipment and Site Inspection Rounds. Inspectors can traverse safely around a job site, take high-quality photos, and dictate notes using the field data collection component of an Inspection Data Management System (IDMS) such as hands-free solutions from RealWear and HUVR. From there, the captured data is instantly uploaded and geocoded for integrity verification, auditing, and compliance purposes. The solution saves time and money while enhancing safety and enabling further automation,3D digital twins, and AI.  Technical improvements The RealWear Navigator Z1 has more than 20 major technical improvements over prior devices including: The introduction of RealWear’s new AI Core, the most powerful processor ever in a RealWear device, specially designed for on-device enhanced AI experiences; Significantly lighter for added comfort, while maintaining its ruggedness and durability; Improved screen visibility with HD 720p display; High-resolution front-facing camera (48 MP) for better remote collaboration and low-light image capture for inspections and auditing; Wider temperature range for use in more climates and environments; Enhanced noise cancellation for improved voice-responsiveness and accuracy; Improved connectivity with faster Wi-Fi 6 and an optional 5G IS solution for private and secure enterprise connectivity; A thermal camera module to spot invisible issues before they become critical; A removable integrated snag-free battery for enhanced safety and extended use; and,  Enterprise Secure Android 12.  RealWear Cloud web portal Device administrators can add approved apps to the headset, adjust a variety of settings, and even remotely connect As part of the solution, with RealWear’s enterprise-grade RealWear Cloud web portal, device administrators can add approved apps to the headset, adjust a variety of settings, and even remotely connect to the headset to offer remote device troubleshooting. RealWear Navigator Z1 is available for pre-orders through authorised resellers. RealWear has made more than 20 design improvements to enhance the user experience for these target industries and use cases. Intrinsically smart, enabling AI for frontline workers  To take full advantage of the powerful Qualcomm 6490 chipset, RealWear has begun to offer early access to the new headset to its global developer community. RealWear customers can expect both entirely new hands-free solutions as well as significant enhancements to existing solutions.  Qualcomm 6490 The headset will launch with certifications for ATEX Zone 1, CSA C1/D1, and IECEx, making it suitable “We’re thrilled that RealWear is utilising the Qualcomm 6490 platform in RealWear Navigator Z1 that will help frontline workers in extremely hazardous zones where rugged equipment and safety are essential,” said Jeff Henckels, director of XR Product Management, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “The Qualcomm 6490 is a perfect fit for RealWear’s next-generation headsets as it enables powerful connections and reduced latency, an advanced ISP, and advanced Edge-AI computing to deliver astonishing performance at lower power.” The headset will launch with certifications for ATEX Zone 1, CSA C1/D1, and IECEx, making it suitable for a variety of markets including oil and gas, mining, pharmaceuticals, and flour and textile mills. “Free Your Hands” product introduction tour  RealWear will be offering product demonstrations and educational sessions in many locations around the world to customers and partners. RealWear 'Free Your Hands' Around the World Tour 2023  Sept 5-8 - SPE Offshore Europe, Aberdeen, UK Sept 13-15 - Oil and Gas Expo (OGA), Kuala Lampur, Malaysia  Sept 25-28 – Nexus, Dallas, TX, USA  Oct 2-5 – Adipec, Abu Dhabi, UAE Oct 16-18 - SPE ATCE, San Antonio, TX, USA  Oct 16-20 - GITEX Global, Dubai, UAE Oct 24-26 - Augmented Enterprise Summit (AES), Houston, TX, USA Oct 31-Nov 2 – IMARC, Sydney, Australia Nov 13-15 - The Connected Worker Chicago, Chicago, USA  Nov 27-28 - Automa O&G, Vösendorf, Austria Dec 4-6 - The Connected Worker Europe, Munich, Germany  RealWear has received strong industry support from Qualcomm, Ericsson, AMA, HINDSITE, HUVR, Intoware, NSW, OverIT, Pexip, PTC, Sygration, TeamViewer, and others.