M1 Enhances 5G Standalone Network Performance with Ericsson’s AI-Driven Solution

• M1’s integration of the AI-powered Ericsson Transport Automation Controller to enhance the capacity and efficiency of its IP and microwave networks.
• The development of a comprehensive transport network featuring Ericsson Router 6000 IP nodes and links, alongside a combination of fibre and MINI-LINK microwave connections, to support the nationwide 5G SA network.
• The Ericsson transport controller’s capability to immediately identify degradations, capacity utilisation, and synchronisation issues offers insights to optimise overall network performance while minimising human error and reducing troubleshooting time.

Singapore, August 23, 2024 – M1, a leading Mobile Network Operator in Singapore, has formalised a Memorandum of Understanding with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) to enhance the capacity and performance of its IP and microwave networks through the deployment of Ericsson’s AI-powered Transport Automation Controller. This initiative marks the world’s first live deployment of a combined IP and microwave network incorporating advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning functionalities.

Under the terms of the MoU, M1 will leverage the Ericsson Transport Automation Controller to conduct a proof-of-concept for integrating IP and microwave use cases within its network. This effort is part of M1’s broader strategy to strengthen its 5G capabilities, addressing the increasing demand for a high-performance 5G Standalone (SA) network that offers greater bandwidth, reduced latency, and more robust transport connectivity.

M1 has already established a comprehensive transport network, incorporating Ericsson Router 6000 IP nodes, fibre links, and MINI-LINK microwave connections, all designed to support the nationwide 5G SA network.

In order to better meet user expectations for faster connectivity and minimal lag, M1 has selected Ericsson’s Transport Automation Controller to execute a proof of concept for both IP and microwave use cases by the final quarter of 2024. This collaboration between M1 and Ericsson aims to introduce real-time observability and SDN automation capabilities to the transport network.

The Ericsson Transport Automation Controller is an advanced, cloud-native transport controller that utilises Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to analyse and automate operations across microwave, IP, and optical networks. It facilitates data-driven decision-making, enabling service providers to anticipate and mitigate challenges that could affect network performance. Additionally, the controller provides detailed data analysis, assisting communication service providers in understanding the root causes of network issues, identifying trends, and addressing performance anomalies, thus enabling proactive network management, such as preventive maintenance.

The transport controller, which uses AI to identify degradations, capacity utilisation problems, and synchronisation issues, provides insights on how to improve overall network performance while lowering human error and reducing troubleshooting time.

Mr. Denis Seek, Chief Technical Officer at M1, commented, “M1 is committed to delivering greater value to our users by integrating the latest technologies into our network. As we continue to modernise our 4G and 5G mobile transport networks, the introduction of advanced automation and AI capabilities through the Ericsson Transport Automation Controller will allow us to enhance network performance further. This collaboration also aligns with M1’s broader goal of driving automation and AI initiatives across the company.”

Mr. Daniel Ode, Head of Ericsson in Singapore, the Philippines, and Brunei, added, “Ericsson is pleased to extend our partnership with M1 by providing them with our Intelligent Transport Automation Controller. This solution offers real-time insights across both IP and microwave networks, enabling M1 to unlock the full potential of their 5G Standalone network using cutting-edge, AI-enabled technologies.”