Ericsson’s New-Generation RAN Computing Platform Empowers Japan’s 5G and AI Network Evolution

Ericsson’s next-generation RAN computing platform has been selected by NTT DOCOMO, Inc. for its networks in Japan, including 5G networks.

This Ericsson RAN computing platform, designed for specific purposes, incorporates the latest Ericsson-developed silicon chips (Ericsson Silicon) and is optimized for 4G, 5G, 5G Advanced, as well as enhanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) radio access network workloads.

This design facilitates the creation of an AI-native and programmable network, supporting the long-term evolution of software. The platform began deployment in July 2026 and is expected to further enhance DOCOMO users’ high-quality network experience.

Masafumi Masuda, Senior Vice President and Head of Wireless Access Network Design at NTT DOCOMO, stated: “DOCOMO is advancing the enhancement of network processing capabilities to meet growing traffic demands while maintaining and improving communication quality. The Ericsson RAN Computing Platform, with its outstanding processing power, will strongly support our infrastructure strategy. We will continue deepening our collaboration with Ericsson to build a flexible network platform capable of anticipating future AI applications, delivering the best communication experience for our customers.”

Yukiko Sato, Director of NTT Group Customer Division at Ericsson Japan Co., Ltd., stated: “We are deeply proud that through the trust-based partnership between Ericsson and DOCOMO, Ericsson can deliver the most advanced and efficient RAN computing technology to the market. The RAN computing platform will not only meet DOCOMO’s network traffic demands but also enhance environmental sustainability and reduce operational costs.”

Equipped with the latest Ericsson self-developed chip, the RAN computing platform achieves twice the processing capacity of its predecessor’s baseband products while consuming less than half the energy. This enables RAN computing products to be deployed in an aggregated manner within C-RAN (Centralized Radio Access Network) setups, thereby achieving efficient site operations and lower costs.

In December 2025, Ericsson had already begun deploying the 4.5GHz massive MIMO radio unit “AIR 3255” for DOCOMO’s 5G commercial network. The commercial launch of the RAN computing platform will further accelerate support for DOCOMO’s future network goals. Both parties will also jointly develop next-generation network architectures to address traffic growth driven by AI.