Set to be rolled out over the next 10 years, the UK-based program will focus on 6G research and breakthrough innovations with research covering areas including network resilience and security, artificial intelligence, cognitive networks and energy efficiency.
Ericsson said the program will employ 20 dedicated researchers and support PhD students who will work alongside academics, communications service providers, and industry partners to lead 6G research projects.
In a statement, Magnus Frodigh, VP and head of Ericsson Research, said: “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.”
Expected to become available in the 2030s, 6G is anticipated to merge the digital and physical world, contribute to a more intelligent and efficient society, and help deliver new use cases including multi-sensory extended reality, precision healthcare, smart agriculture, cobots, and intelligent autonomous systems.
DCMS (Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport) secretary of state Michelle Donelan said: “Ericsson's investment is a huge vote of confidence in the UK's innovative telecoms sector. This pioneering research unit will create new jobs, support students and bring together some of our country's finest minds to shape the future of telecoms infrastructure in the UK and across the globe.
"Our mission is to lead the world in developing next-generation network tech, and we will soon publish a strategy outlining how we harness 6G to deliver more for people and business."
“As a major supplier to UK operators, it is great to see Ericsson announce its new Telecoms 6G Research and Development centre,” added Dr Mike Short CBE, chief scientific adviser at the Department of International Trade. “This investment in the UK telecoms sector will help promote stronger research, innovation and collaboration. UKRI and the UK government more broadly will continue to support the development of telecoms talent and new ideas in this exciting growth area.”
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