Telefónica Germany is planning to trial ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) with Nokia as part of its path to rolling out 5G networks.
The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding today (31 January), agreeing to trial a range of technology at the operator’s Munich lab.
Dubbed the 5G Innovation Cluster, Telefónica said it wanted to use the partnership to explore how Massive MIMO and multi-access edge computing can deliver high quality communications.
It said URLLC would be central for delivering critical communications between equipment in factories and for autonomous driving. Another area of focus for the Cluster will be how virtual reality can be used in stadiums or at tourist sites.
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Other trials will explore how existing network assets can be used to deliver new kinds of products and services. The findings will be live trialled in Berlin when ready.
Cayetano Carbajo, CTO of Telefónica Germany, said: “Our innovation collaboration in Germany follows a global agreement with Nokia to explore technologies on the path to 5G.
“Having access to Nokia’s latest portfolio will enable pre-testing and understanding new technologies thus helping us to further enhance the user experience in our network.”
Marc Rouanne, President of Mobile Networks, Nokia added: “We have a strong presence in Telefónica’s radio network in Germany and it is important that we work jointly to innovate on the path to 5G, preparing the network for future demand and business opportunities.”
In October, Telefónica Germany worked with Huawei in developing a 5G Massive MIMO antenna, which it said would help solve deployment challenges.