Samsung and SoftBank Join Forces to Pioneer AI-Powered 6G Networks

Samsung and SoftBank Forge Partnership for Next-Generation Communications

Samsung Electronics and SoftBank Corp. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on next-generation communications technologies, with a primary focus on 6G and AI-based radio access network (AI-RAN) innovations 1

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. This strategic partnership aims to drive future innovation in the telecommunications industry by leveraging the expertise of both companies.

Four Key Areas of Collaboration

The collaboration will focus on four main areas of next-generation communications technologies 2

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1. 6G
2. AI for RAN
3. AI and RAN
4. Large Telecom Model (LTM)

By concentrating on these areas, the companies plan to identify new use cases, jointly develop core technologies, and demonstrate their effectiveness in real-world scenarios 2

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AI-Native Networks and Network Optimization

Samsung is leading research on AI-native networks, which involve embedding AI across every layer of the telecommunications network 1

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. This approach aims to deliver two core benefits: innovation in user experience and greater network efficiency through automation.

JinGuk Jeong, Executive Vice President and Head of Advanced Communications Research Center (ACRC) at Samsung Electronics, explained, "AI native doesn't mean applying AI to specific equipment or functions -- it means embedding AI technologies throughout the entire process, from design to operation" 1

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Global Partnerships and Ecosystem Expansion

Samsung is actively pursuing global partnerships to bring these technologies to real-world network environments. The company has collaborated with various telecom operators, including NTT DOCOMO, KT, KDDI Research, and Verizon, to work on user-specific network optimization technologies and improve coverage and data transmission speeds in potential 6G frequency bands 1

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Additionally, Samsung is expanding its collaboration with leading chip vendors such as Qualcomm, Intel, Arm, and NVIDIA to broaden the AI-driven telecommunications ecosystem 1

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Standardization and Industry Leadership

As discussions on 6G standardization intensify, including the potential use of new frequency bands like the 7GHz spectrum, Samsung is playing a crucial role in shaping the transition to the 6G era 1

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. The company serves as vice chair of the board for the Next G Alliance and is actively involved in the AI-RAN Alliance, driving research, development, and standardization efforts for 6G across North America 1

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Future Implications and Challenges

The collaboration between Samsung and SoftBank represents a significant step towards realizing next-generation networks that are more efficient and highly reliable through AI integration 2

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Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO of SoftBank Corp., emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, "SoftBank remains committed to taking on the challenge of building the next-generation social infrastructure essential for a future society where AI and humans coexist" 2

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As the industry moves forward, the integration of AI and telecommunications is expected to create new value beyond performance gains, potentially revolutionizing user experiences and network operations in the upcoming 6G era 1

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