Telecom Italia and Nokia Network will work together to uncover start-ups working on NFV, SDN, and next-generation RAN and SON technologies.
The new Memorandum of Understanding between the companies with see them embark on the joint technical scouting of start-ups, developing proof of concept deployments of systems, solutions and services and partner on funding specific technologies.
The companies said start-ups play a vital role in developing new solutions and creating new businesses opportunities. The partnership will last for two years.
Sandro Dionisi, Executive Vice President and Director of Global Advisory Services at Telecom Italia, said: “Collaborating with Nokia Networks on this scouting program will open up the opportunity to introduce new network technologies in strategic areas, faster than before, guaranteeing the support of a leading OEM like Nokia Networks. The initiative will give us access to innovators, mainly but not only in Silicon Valley, speed up and improve technical development, leading to newer and better services for our consumers.”
Hossein Moiin, Executive Vice President and CTO at Nokia Networks, said: “Startups are a rich source of innovation that can provide building blocks for various telecom and digital services. In particular, we see immense potential in areas such as NFV, SDN, RAN Evolution and SON. Together with Telecom Italia, we will further engage with the wider ecosystem of technology companies, identifying disruptive innovators and developing new solutions in these domains.”