0:00 Intro
2:00 Was it a quiet year?
5:00 Nokia shake-up
9:00 US operators drop DEI
16:00 Satellite gets real
21:00 Smartphones get thin
29:00 Billions pumped into AI
33:00 Our 2026 predictions

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The study, which surveyed around 2,000 businesses and decision-makers across the US and Europe, found networks must evolve rapidly to keep pace with increasingly complex AI workloads. In the US, 88 per cent of respondents said infrastructure limitations could restrict AI’s scale, compared with 78 per cent in Europe.

According to Nokia, AI is “redefining network requirements”, with traffic patterns shifting away from traditional downlink-heavy consumer use towards uplink-intensive data flows. Applications such as autonomous vehicles, smart factories and remote healthcare generate large volumes of data at the edge that must be sent upstream for processing, placing pressure on networks originally designed for browsing and video streaming.

In Europe, 86 per cent of enterprises believe today’s networks are not yet ready for mass AI adoption. While two-thirds of enterprises surveyed already have AI in live use, more than half are already experiencing downtime, latency and throughput constraints. Security concerns are also rising as more than 80 per cent of businesses across sectors believe AI is introducing risks, with cybersecurity emerging as the top AI use case.

Competitiveness is another pressure point. Nearly 29 per cent of European enterprise leaders warned infrastructure constraints could force them to move AI workloads abroad, potentially undermining the continent’s digital sovereignty.

Reshaped industries
To address these concerns, respondents called for regulatory simplification, spectrum availability and greater investment in energy-efficient, AI-ready networks across the continent.

In the US, respondents highlighted the need to optimise bi-directional data flows, expand fibre capacity and deploy low-latency edge infrastructure. Despite leading global AI adoption, most US respondents remain concerned infrastructure upgrades may lag behind.

“The first wave of the AI supercycle has already reshaped industries and accelerated innovation,” noted Pallavi Mahajan, chief technology and AI officer at Nokia. According to her, the research shows “a clear understanding across the ecosystem that future waves will demand more advanced, AI-native networks”, with “connectivity, capacity, and low-latency performance” becoming increasingly critical.

Looking ahead, the Finnish vendor called for closer collaboration and more predictable regulation to enable timely network investment as AI demand accelerates.

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The vendor explained in a statement Airtel’s network APIs will be made available on a subscription basis to developers, system integrators and enterprises using Nokia’s Network as Code platform.

The platform gives developers standardised access to network functions without having to navigate underlying network technologies, with more than 60 partners joining its global ecosystem, Nokia added.

Airtel Business CEO Sharat Sinha noted it is partnering with Nokia on network APIs to enable “the ecosystem to leverage our network capabilities” to automate and build secure digital services.

Arvind Khurana, Nokia’s head of Cloud and Network Services for India, stated the partnership “represents a significant step in expanding the Network as Code ecosystem”, which helps operators make money from network investments, while “fostering innovation in the developer community”.

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Nokia targets AI-ready US networks with $4B outlay

What happened: Nokia agreed a $4 billion, multi-year investment plan with US President Donald Trump’s administration to expand its R&D and manufacturing footprint and accelerate the rollout of AI-ready network infrastructure.

Why it matters: The investment directly supports the domestic production of mobile, fixed, IP, optical and defence solutions, while deepening R&D in automation, quantum-safe networks and semiconductors. It builds on Nokia’s earlier $2.3 billion US commitment linked to its Infinera acquisition, alongside $456 million in manufacturing investments by the optical specialist. US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick said the deal marked “another Trump administration win for America”, adding that the spending means “the most innovative technologies that power AI, data centres, and critical national security applications will be developed and built here in the US”. The hefty outlay puts financial weight behind Nokia’s recent strategy revamp under CEO Justin Hotard centred around AI-native networks, as the vendor streamlines into two core infrastructure units and targets higher profits by 2028 to cash in on what Hotard calls the “AI supercycle”.

Samsung, SKT start joint research on AI, 6G

What happened: Samsung Electronics and SK Telecom launched joint research into AI-supported RAN technology in a bid to lay the groundwork for 6G commercialisation.

Why it matters: The work will focus on AI-based channel estimation, distributed MIMO transmission and reception, and AI-RAN-based scheduler and core network technologies that determine when, where and how data is sent. Samsung said the field-focused work with SKT will allow it to verify AI-powered wireless technologies in real-world environments and secure critical AI-RAN technologies at an early stage. Meanwhile, SKT added the convergence of AI and wireless would be “crucial to 6G competitiveness”. Both companies are members of the AI-RAN Alliance, positioning them to impact future 6G standards and roadmaps. Athul Prasad, Samsung’s senior manager of emerging technologies & corporate development, said the pair’s joint proposal on AI-based channel estimation is already an approved official work item at the alliance, underscoring their potential influence on future standards.

Kyivstar activates Starlink D2D in Europe first

What happened: Kyivstar became the first mobile operator in Europe to switch on Starlink D2D connectivity following successful tests earlier this year, enabling SMS services for customers with standard 4G smartphones when terrestrial networks are damaged, unavailable or out of reach.

Why it matters: Ukraine’s digital transformation minister Mykhailo Fedorov called the service “an important step in developing infrastructure that will ensure connectivity even in areas without traditional networks”, citing “constant Russian attacks on infrastructure, blackouts and network damage” amid an ongoing war. Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov said the service enhances national resilience and provides “a vital functionality that is critical for our people”. This week, Kyivstar’s head of cloud & satellite business Ilya Polshakov told MWL at MWC25 Doha that around 400,000 users have registered on Kyivstar’s Starlink network, with around 90,000 to 100,000 SMS messages sent in the first 24 hours since launch. He pointed to successful real-world tests, including banking payment terminals, where reliable connectivity is critical. Voice and expanded data services are planned for 2026, with the operator also set to introduce extended IoT capabilities for future satellite generations. In addition, the project is strategically significant for Kyivstar parent Veon Group, which plans to roll out the service in Kazakhstan from 2026.

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Under the agreement, Nokia will use its Cloud RAN and AI-ready technologies to upgrade the operator’s network in a bid to support rapid 5G rollout, improve performance and achieve more sustainable network operations.

The Finnish vendor will supply its energy-efficient AirScale RAN portfolio, including Habrok Massive MIMO radios and small-cell solutions, to enhance Telefonica’s coverage and boost indoor connectivity. New baseband solutions will also be deployed to strengthen network performance and reliability.

Nokia’s Interleaved Passive Active Antenna technology will be used to simplify site design and speed up 5G deployment. The contract also includes ongoing maintenance and network optimisation services.

Telefonica will continue to use Nokia’s AI-powered network management platform MantaRay NM to monitor and optimise performance across radio, core and transport networks. The pair stated the tool underpins the operator’s ambition to achieve greater AI-powered network automation in the future.

Nokia CEO Justin Hotard said the deal extension will help strengthen Telefonica’s “performance, efficiency and customer experience across their 5G network”, adding that with Nokia’s technology, the operator will be “positioned for long-term competitiveness as the AI supercycle takes hold”.

Hotard has repeatedly referenced the AI supercycle since taking on the role as Nokia boss earlier this year and this month announced a strategic revamp focussed on AI, cloud and next-generation connectivity.

Matthias Sauder, director networks at Telefonica Germany’s consumer brand O2 Telefonica, noted the deal reflects a “shared commitment to advancing 5G technology and creating a more connected and sustainable Germany”.

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The vendor integrated its 7750 Service Router with a Broadband Network Gateway and Carrier Grade NAT functionality, a set-up it stated positions RailTel to handle enterprise-grade high-speed traffic and internal ISP offerings.

Nokia also deployed its 1830 Photonic Service Switch and transponder technology, delivering a “substantial increase in transport capacity” while keeping cost per bit to a minimum.

RailTel’s existing infrastructure and unused channel spectrum were added to the mix, and Nokia delivered Lambda transmission and “express traffic lanes between cities”.

The work spanned the entirety of RailTel’s DWDM National Long-Distance network.

Sanjai Kumar, RailTel chair and MD, said the project is a “pivotal step” in modernising its systems.

Adding Nokia’s technologies to its existing infrastructure provides RailTel the efficiency needed to “deliver superior, faster and more reliable services” to enterprise and broadband customers, he said.

RailTel is a central public enterprise within the Ministry of Railways which set out to modernise rail communications and since evolved into an ICT service provider.

It operates a nationwide fibre network of more than 64,000km and two Tier-3-certified data centres.

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In a statement, Nokia explained its MantaRay SON is designed to address the increasing complexity of 5G networks, with the integration into Docomo’s operations allowing planning, provisioning and verification processes to be automated. By automating routine operations, the vendor added MantaRay SON improves network quality and efficiency, while significantly reducing operational costs.

The new system also enables closed-loop operations, with configuration changes in 5G systems detected and executed automatically without human intervention, Nokia claimed. The deployment is underway.

Masafumi Masuda, GM of Docomo’s Radio Access Design Department, stated MantaRay’s open interface capabilities will strengthen its O-RAN 5G commercial network, while the advanced AI features will reduce operational costs and further improve service quality.

Nokia head of RAN Mark Atkinson suggested the system represents “a significant leap forward” in managing the complexity of 5G networks. “Together, we are shaping the future of network operations.”

Earlier this month, SoftBank Corp selected Nokia to modernise its existing network infrastructure and expand standalone (SA) 5G coverage across western Japan. In late July, Rakuten Mobile lined up the company as one of three vendor partners to deploy a SA 5G network across the country.

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The vendor explained the upgrade would consolidate voice, data, video communications and other services including check-in kiosks, the baggage handling system, Wi-Fi and CCTV on a single network to reduce complexity and operational expenses.

In addition to installing a range of routers, Nokia plans to deploy its network service platform to automate and simplify operations.

Stuart Hendry, VP of enterprise sales for Network Infrastructure at Nokia Asia Pacific, said the equipment would improve airport safety and operations while reducing energy consumption.

HwaCom Systems, a provider of telecoms integrated services, is to aid int the deployment.

The airport is 40km west of Taipei and is Taiwan’s largest, handling nearly 45 million passengers in 2024.

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The deal marks Nokia’s first major move since outlining a fresh strategy revamp under CEO Justin Hotard this week, when it unveiled a new Mobile Infrastructure unit designed to advance the vendor’s AI-native network strategy.

The multi-year US plan adds to the vendor’s earlier $2.3 billion US commitment through its Infinera acquisition, in addition to the optical networking specialist’s $456 million manufacturing facility investments.

Around $3.5 billion of the spend is earmarked for US-based R&D, including networking technologies, defence applications, automation, quantum-safe networking and semiconductor technologies. A further $500 million will support manufacturing and R&D expansion in Texas, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Nokia positioned the investment as key to delivering more secure, energy-efficient, AI-ready networks, arguing it will help the US and its allies maintain competitiveness as AI booms.

US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick said: “Nokia’s $4 billion investment is another Trump administration win for America.” He stated the plan ensures “the most innovative technologies that power AI, data centres, and critical national security applications will be developed and built here in the US”.

Nokia CEO Justin Hotard said the project reinforces the company’s position in critical network infrastructure, stating it will “help strengthen the nation’s capacity to deliver greater security, productivity, and prosperity through AI-optimised connectivity at scale”.

Hotard added the expanded US footprint will support research shaping “the future of networking for the years to come”.

Nokia’s new strategy laid out fresh financial targets, leadership changes and a whittling down to two operating segments as it aims to cash in on the global AI boom.

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Google boss sounds alarm on AI bubble risk

What happened: Google CEO Sundar Pichai warned the AI sector is showing signs of “irrationality” as valuations surge, telling BBC News the industry is entering an investment phase that could “overshoot”.

Why it matters: Pichai’s remarks come as Google parent Alphabet’s valuation crossed $3 trillion earlier this year, while Nvidia hit a record $5 trillion last month. While stressing AI’s long-term potential is “profound”, he cautioned that no company, including Google parent Alphabet, would be immune if the current momentum reverses. He also acknowledged that AI is driving energy demand “in a way that the current systems can’t fully cope”, slowing Google’s path to its 2030 net-zero goal. In addition, the boss warned that AI systems remain “prone to some errors”, urging users to utilise the technology alongside other tools. AvidThink Analyst Roy Chua told MWL that “even Sam Altman has opined that we might be in a bubble”, adding that while AI’s ability to boost productivity and accelerate breakthroughs is clear, “how much we’ve overhyped it in the short term remains to be seen”.

EU delays AI rules after big tech pressure

What happened: The European Commission (EC) moved to ease pressure on tech players by proposing a delay to some of the watchdog’s toughest AI rules, dialling back high-risk requirements in the AI Act by as much as 16 months.

Why it matters: The shift forms part of a new Digital Omnibus package aimed at cutting red tape to boost innovation and competitiveness across Europe’s digital sector. EU tech policy chief Henna Virkkunen warned that start-ups and SMEs are being weighed down by “layers of rigid rules”, stating the move is “giving space for innovation to happen and to be marketed in Europe”. The rethink follows mounting pushback from big tech players including Meta, alongside political pressure from US President Donald Trump. In addition, a potential General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) update allowing personal data to be used for AI model training would mark one of the regulator’s most consequential policy pivots to date. The package also includes simplified cookie-consent rules, a unified reporting interface for AI-related obligations, and a new European Business Wallet designed to allow companies to scale easily across all member states. The EC estimated the measures could strip out up to €5 billion in admin costs by 2029.

Nokia sets out strategy to cash-in on AI boom

What happened: Nokia used its Capital Markets Day to unveil a long-anticipated strategy overhaul under CEO Justin Hotard, outlining a tighter organisational structure, fresh financial targets and a sharper push into AI-driven growth.

Why it matters: Effective 1 January 2026, the vendor will consolidate its four existing divisions into two main segments: Network Infrastructure and Mobile Infrastructure. The former builds on Nokia’s recent $1 billion AI infrastructure deal with Nvidia, and brings together Optical, IP and Fixed Networks. The Mobile Infrastructure segment will house Core Networks, Radio and Technology Standards, with a long-term emphasis on AI-native networks and 6G. Leadership updates include the departure of Mobile Networks president Tommi Uitto from the group leadership team, while Patrik Hammaren takes charge of Technology Standards. Nokia shares fell as much as 6 per cent following the announcement. PP Foresight CEO Paolo Pescatore said the overhaul is not notably different from Nokia’s existing direction, warning that escalating AI investment comes with uncertain returns.

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In a presentation at the vendor’s Capital Markets Day where it revealed a strategic revamp, Hotard and CFO Marco Wiren fleshed out details about its decision to place Enterprise Campus Edge – which bundles private networks, Wi-Fi connectivity and on-premise edge, along with Fixed Wireless Access CPE, Microwave Radio and Site Implementation and Outside Plant – into a dedicated portfolio business segment, separated away from two main operating units: Network Infrastructure and Mobile Infrastructure.

While the official statement announcing the revamp stated it was conducting reviews with a decision on the businesses next year, Hotard revealed during the presentation the units do not tie in with five strategic priorities outlined as part of his vision to tap into opportunities around AI.

He explained that over the past 12 months, the businesses in question generated approximately €900 million in net sales, with a gross margin of 22 per cent and an operating loss of €100 million.

These numbers “set out a plan to improve execution in these businesses and to define the right path forward for each of them during 2026”.

Wiren added Nokia had conducted a review focused on market position, margin profile and strategic fit, with the conclusion that “these are not core to Nokia, and we are not the right owner”.

“We are assessing the best path of each of these businesses and owners as well, and we expect that we will have a solution by the end of 2026.”

Despite the review, a Nokia spokesperson told Mobile World Live its leadership position and commitment to private 5G market remains unchanged.

“Nokia continues to sell radios for private wireless deployments together with Nokia and third-party core. As communicated at our Capital Markets Day, Nokia’s key customer segments include not only telcos, AI and Cloud, but mission-critical enterprises, including defence.”

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Unveiled during its Capital Markets Day, the company stated the strategy changes will take effect from 1 January 2026.

Hotard, who took the role in April, has repeatedly teased a strategy shake-up and stated that as the trusted western provider of secure and advanced connectivity, “our technology is powering the AI supercycle”.

To tap into the AI opportunity, the company will focus on five strategic priorities: accelerate in AI and cloud; lead the next era of mobile connectivity with AI-native networks and 6G; grow by co-innovating with customers and partners; focus capital where Nokia can differentiate; and unlock sustainable returns.

From four to two
The biggest change will be moving from four primary operating segments into two: Network Infrastructure and Mobile Infrastructure.

The first “recognises Network Infrastructure as a growth segment” and will consist of three business units: Optical Network; IP Networks and Fixed Networks.

Headed up by David Heard, the unit will look to capitalise on global AI and data centre build-out while focusing on its telecoms customer base. The shift comes after it secured a $1 billion AI infrastructure investment from Nvidia last month.

The Mobile Infrastructure segment brings together the vendor’s Core Networks portfolio, Radio Networks offering and Technology Standards, formerly Nokia Technologies. It will be positioned for core and radio networks technology, with the long-term goal of developing AI-native networks and 6G.

Tommi Uitto, president of Mobile Networks, will step down from the group leadership team as a result of the changes, while current head of Cloud and Network services Raghav Sahgal has been named chief customer officer. Patrik Hammaren has been named president, Technology Standards.

Incubation unit
In addition, four of its units: Fixed Wireless Access CPE; Microwave Radio; Enterprise Campus Edge and Site Implementation and Outside Plant will be moved into a dedicated segment called Portfolio Businesses.

The vendor said it is aiming to conclude on a future direction for each unit during 2026. 

Nokia Defense will be launched as an incubation unit, with the company touting further opportunities for the business in the US, Finland and allied countries.

Nokia said it is now targeting comparable operating profit of €2.7 billion to €3.2 billion by 2028, an increase of €2 billion generated in the last 12 months.

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The vendor stated the three-year deal constituted a significant market gain share and positioned it strongly in the country. It won the contract through a tender process.

Nokia explained under the new deal it would expand and modernise 5G capacity and coverage to the operator’s customers in “new regions” alongside those already served by its network equipment.

Among the focus areas is improving coverage in Italy’s small towns and rural areas.

Citing sustainability benefits of its equipment, Nokia said it would install various products from its energy-efficient, AI-ready AirScale Radio Access Network portfolio.

Telecom Italia CEO Pietro Labriola said the partnership “strengthens” the operator’s “leadership in building the next generation of 5G networks, enabling faster, smarter, and more sustainable connectivity across Italy”.

“By combining innovation and efficiency, we are creating the digital infrastructure that will bridge the divide, accelerate industrial transformation, and support the country’s sustainable growth”.

Nokia president and CEO Justin Hotard added: “We’re helping TIM extend coverage and build a foundation for new AI-driven services. Together, we’re connecting intelligence and strengthening Italy’s competitiveness”.

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During our digital Unwrapped week Justin spoke to Thierry Klein, President of Bell Labs Solutions Research, Nokia, about the company’s huge mission to provide connectivity from the moon.

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Klein said Nokia’s role in deploying the first cellular network on the lunar surface earlier this year marked “a big leap” in proving that cellular mobile technologies can power the next phase of space exploration.

“We will have sustained human presence on the lunar surface,” he explained. To support that, Nokia envisions a web of lunar and orbital systems that form a foundation for interplanetary communications.

Klein said the next challenge lies in interlinking the “pockets of surface communication” in space, enabling data transfer between lunar surface sites, orbiting satellites and spacecrafts travelling between the Earth and Moon. “You need to connect all of it in a dynamic fashion,” he said. This is where the company aims to sharpen its focus “as we reach deeper and deeper into space”.

Earlier this year, Nokia successfully deployed a 4G network on the Moon as part of Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission, marking a major step in proving terrestrial cellular technology can operate in the harsh conditions of space. Despite a difficult landing where Nokia was unable to place a call due to significant power constraints, Klein confirmed the network was switched on and functioning. “We have real evidence that the network was operational,” he noted.

While the current lunar system runs on 4G, Klein expects the next decade to bring a 5G leap for space connectivity, although deliberately behind Earth’s timelines. “Our recommendation is really for the space industry to be about one generation behind what we see on terrestrial networks,” he said, stating that technical maturity, ecosystem readiness and deployment experience are essential before pushing new technology beyond Earth.

 “When we’re moving to 6G for terrestrial networks in the, say 2028 to 2030 timeframe, that’s probably the right timeframe to move to 5G for space exploration.”

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The tie-up pairs Nokia’s advanced 5G radio technology with the Latvian operator’s experience in defence solutions to deliver a secure, high-capacity network for battlefield operations.

The network aims to deliver resilient high-speed, low-latency connectivity supporting real-time data exchange between unmanned vehicles, sensors and personnel to boost situational awareness and interoperability among national and coalition forces. The scalable solution will be designed for rapid deployment even in rugged environments.

Nokia’s head of space and defence Giuseppe Targia highlighted the transformative role of 5G in real-time military communications, adding the joint project “supports the modernisation of military capabilities, enabling faster decision-making, seamless communication, and the integration of advanced technologies across tactical environments”.

The move marks the latest step in Nokia and LMT’s efforts to bring next-generation connectivity to defence applications. The pair already work together in delivering 5G across Latvia’s mobile networks, as well as for 5G-enabled military applications “helping strengthen defence along the eastern flank”. LMT operates Europe’s first 5G military testbed at the Adazi military base in Latvia, a key NATO site.

Nokia said the partners have also developed solutions such as a portable 5G tactical network using Nokia’s Banshee platform, a 5G/LTE tactical private wireless service which was also delivered to the US Marine Corps in May.

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The pair stated the partnership builds on a longstanding relationship and aims to lay the groundwork for transformative 6G services.

The collaboration will blend KDDI’s network data and operational expertise with Nokia Bell Labs’ advanced energy consumption models and knowledge of programmable network architectures.

For mMIMO energy efficiency, the two research companies plan to develop techniques to reduce power consumption at base stations while improving communication performance across proposed 6G spectrum.

The partnership also includes collaboration across distributed programmable core network services. The teams will co-develop mobile core technologies designed to maintain uninterrupted communication, even during infrastructure failures and natural disasters, to ensure network resiliency for 6G.

Peter Vetter, president, core research at Bell Labs, stated “tackling the inherent challenges in a new generation of networking requires close collaboration in the industry” to advance 6G as a resilient, efficient and intelligent technology.

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Robert Backhouse, CTO Americas at Nokia (pictured, second from right) argued the impact of openness on infrastructure players is more one of evolution than revolution, highlighting how its self-organising network is being used as a foundation for open RAN developments.

The executive noted operators have led the developments of “hundreds of applications” in recent years, a “closed ecosystem” which he said must now be transitioned to Nokia’s new platform and converted into rApps.

Nokia hopes to shake up the industry through a recent tie-up with chip company Nvidia. Backhouse said the pair have worked together for “about 18 months” and hope to “bring some competition” to purpose-built and cloud RAN sectors.

“We’re pretty excited about that announcement.”

Ericsson is also making openness and relevant elements a core part of its offering, senior manager of cloud and open RAN engagement David Bladsjo (pictured, second from left) said.

He highlighted big progress on automation with open management systems Ericsson and the broader industry made over the past year, and said the vendor is now looking to bolster the number of services on offer to capture “very broad” automation opportunities.

Sadayuki Abeta, CTO of OREX SAI, a joint venture between NTT Docomo and NEC (pictured, far right), highlighted there are many levels of disaggregation in the vendor space itself.

The company works with companies including HPE, NEC and other partners, enabling it to cover more bases but also share the risk.

Abeta explained such arrangements can simplify the process of introducing fresh technologies by providing access to proven systems and can contribute to delivering “more secure networks”.

Fresh talent
Everth Flores, VP and head of Samsung Networks Europe (pictured, far left) argued it is a key beneficiary of the shift to open infrastructure, flagging contracts won with Verizon, Vodafone Group and KDDI, among others.

The executive noted automation efforts are being accelerated, but also challenged, by AI, which is delivering performance improvements over traditional infrastructure, along with “operational efficiency” and the chance for Samsung to “build a strong foundation for a data-driven, software-centric network”.

Flores noted the open RAN sector is unlikely to be restricted to 4G or 5G technologies, explaining 2G is likely to remain part of the mix due to the importance of machine-to-machine services within operator’s overall proposition.

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In a statement, the company explained the decision by its board was taken following a review of the trading volumes, costs and administrative requirements related to the listing.

The delisting requires the approval of the board of Euronext Paris and is expected to take effect within the next three months.

Additional details regarding the delisting process will be announced separately, the statement added.

Last week, the Finland-based vendor lined up a $1 billion investment from Nvidia, which will take a 2.9 per cent equity stake in Nokia.

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The new technology uses machine learning to counter limited coverage and signal distortions  in high-frequency 6G bands, an issue the partners identified as one of the most significant technical hurdles to 6G deployment.

According to Nokia Bell Labs, the new AI-driven tool boosts uplink coverage by between 10 per cent to 25 per cent compared to today’s receivers. This allows operators to deploy 6G on existing 5G infrastructure, reducing network rollout costs and time to market. The AI-powered design also promises gains in throughput and power efficiency.

“One of the key issues facing future 6G deployments is the coverage limitations inherent in 6G’s higher-frequency spectrum,” said Peter Vetter, president of core research at Nokia Bell Labs. “By boosting the coverage of 6G receivers, however, AI technology will help us build 6G infrastructure over current 5G footprints.”

The prototype was developed by Nokia Bell Labs and validated using Rohde & Schwarz test equipment. The pair plan to showcase a proof-of-concept demo at next week’s Brooklyn 6G Summit.

Commercial 6G services are expected to launch in 2030. Nokia’s own 6G roadmap points to early standardisation kicking off alongside broader 5G Advanced rollouts this year, paving the way for deployment at the end of the decade.

Last week, the Finnish vendor joined forces with Ericsson on 6G research to unveil a new video coding technology aimed at supporting high-performance, immersive media for next-generation networks.

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Nvidia invests $1B in Nokia AI-RAN push

What happened: Nvidia lined-up a $1 billion investment in Nokia, which will amount to a 2.9 per cent stake, as the pair announced a collaboration on AI-native RAN systems for 5G-Advanced and future 6G infrastructure.

Why it matters: The cash injection will be partly used to fund the development of Nokia’s 5G and 6G RAN software for Nvidia’s architecture.

On the partnership element, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said the pair aim to create “intelligent, adaptive networks”, enabling operators to shift from 5G-A to 6G through software upgrades. With field trials slated for 2026, Huang framed the deal as part of US efforts to “regain global leadership” in telecom infrastructure.

Nvidia’s billion-dollar move gives Nokia fresh AI firepower; Alejandro Ramirez, lecturer at Erasmus University noted the move signals “a strategic rebirth” for Nokia, once seen as the “tech giant that missed the smartphone wave.”

ABI Research analyst Larbi Belkhit said Nvidia will gain “a credible and established channel into the telco network”, warning the tie-up will challenge rivals, posing the question: “who should other infrastructure vendors be more concerned about moving forward – Nokia or Nvidia?”

VMO2 brings Starlink D2D to UK

What happened: Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) struck a deal with SpaceX-owned Starlink to launch the UK’s first D2D satellite service aimed at expanding mobile connectivity across rural areas.

Why it matters: Analysts at Assembly Research hailed the tie-up as “a first-of-its-kind partnership for the UK market” and “an important milestone in [regulator] Ofcom’s push” to enable D2D in bands below 3GHz.

The analyst house positioned satellite as “an important part of the connectivity puzzle and a pragmatic, complementary way to improve coverage,” rather than a direct threat to mobile operators. Still, VMO2 will need to amend its licences and “prevent the risk of interference with other spectrum users” before the service rolls out.

Amazon delivers corporate jobs blow

What happened: Amazon unveiled plans to cut 14,000 corporate jobs as part of a sweeping effort to streamline operations in the AI era.

Why it matters: In a memo to staff, SVP people experience and technology Beth Galetti said the move aims to cut bureaucracy and refocus resources on Amazon’s “biggest bets.”

The executive did not specify which teams or regions would be impacted but noted the company intends to operate “more leanly, with fewer layers and more ownership”. eMarketer analyst Sky Canaves told Reuters the move “signals that Amazon is likely realising enough AI-driven productivity gains within corporate teams to support a substantial reduction in force”.

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The investment is to be made through the issuance of fresh Nokia shares and will result in Nvidia holding a 2.9 per cent stake in the vendor once customary closing conditions are met.

Nokia stated it intends to use the proceeds to speed development of its 5G and 6G RAN software for Nvidia architecture, along with their broader AI infrastructure arrangement.

The AI-native infrastructure collaboration could also be extended to cover Nokia’s data centre switching and optical technologies.

Nokia and Nvidia separately stated the AI-RAN work would act as a foundation for distributed edge inferencing along with fresh services for consumers and enterprises.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang believes the developments will contribute to US efforts to “regain global leadership” in telecoms infrastructure by making it a frontrunner in AI-RAN.

The companies are working with T-Mobile US and Dell Technologies on developments involving the infrastructure.

Huang said Nvidia and Nokia are “igniting” an AI-RAN revolution, “equipping operators to build intelligent, adaptive networks that will define the next generation of global connectivity”.

Nokia CEO Justin Hotard said the tie-up is necessary because the “next leap in telecom isn’t just from 5G to 6G: it’s a fundamental redesign of the network” involving AI connectivity which can process “intelligence from the data centre all the way to the edge”.

Nvidia and Nokia predict AI-RAN will provide a bump in mobile network performance and efficiency required by current and future iterations of the technology.

They stated almost half of the 800 million weekly active users of ChatGPT access it on mobile devices.

Nvidia aims to ease the transition from 5G-A to 6G through Aerial RAN Computer Pro (ARC-Pro), an accelerated computing platform enabling operators to switch using software updates. It is making a reference design available to encourage broad backing by other manufacturers and network equipment vendors.

Nokia plans to include ARC-Pro in a new AI-RAN product it stated would ease the transition from traditional radio infrastructure.

Partners
The Finnish vendor’s ambition is in part being advanced by Dell Technologies’ PowerEdge servers, which provide no-touch software upgrades and only minimal intervention on the silicon side.

T-Mobile’s involvement builds on an existing collaboration with Nvidia on AI-native infrastructure. The operator plans to test the technologies developed by the chip company and Nokia, with a target of commencing field trials covering performance and efficiency gains in 2026.

John Saw, president of technology and CTO at T-Mobile, said Nokia’s involvement with the pair is “an important step towards shaping the future of connectivity”, in particular preparations for 6G.

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The vendor indicated the upgraded network for E.ON’s distribution system operators would reduce energy consumption compared with the IP and optical infrastructure currently in place. It estimates power use would be cut by up to 50 per cent.

Nokia added the new equipment would improve security and operational resilience along with offering scalability, operational flexibility and responsiveness.

Under the agreement Nokia is to provide what it described as “the full suite of next-generation networking solutions”, including IP routing and switching, optical transport, fixed broadband access and network automation.

It noted the installation would also lay the foundation for future advances including quantum-safe networks.

E.ON head of supply chain, grid communication infrastructure Lars Ramelow described the modernisation of its network and technical infrastructure as a “crucial move” to ensure it can continue to “deliver secure, reliable and energy-efficient services across Europe”.

“We’re investing in a next-generation telecommunications network that is ready for future demands operationally, technologically and environmentally,” he added.

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A 2025 report by SkyQuest forecasted that the 5G defence market will hit a value of $4.2 billion by 2032, as militaries demand faster, more secure and advanced AI-driven communications networks capable of supporting unmanned systems, real-time intelligence and joint operations.

Rising geopolitical tensions are undoubtedly fuelling this investment. “Today, conflicts are not defined solely by traditional firepower but by the ability to integrate drones, distributed assets, and network-centric operations across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains,” Aarthi Kannadoss, associate at Frost & Sullivan told Mobile World Live (MWL). “Secure, resilient, and high-bandwidth satellite communication has become a critical enabler of modern combat.”

Governments are responding accordingly, as Kannadoss noted that many are now allocating between 7 and 10 per cent of their defence budgets to satellite communications infrastructure and services.

The telecoms and technology sector is also moving quickly. Globalstar expanded its government reach through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Army, exploring covert satellite-IoT use cases and resilient communications for contested environments. Meanwhile, Orange Business unveiled a dedicated defence unit in France to support sovereign, secure networks for national and allied use.

On the vendor side, Nokia last month struck a deal with Norwegian defence technology company Kongsberg to deliver advanced 5G and future 6G tactical connectivity, while also refreshing its military product range.

Speaking to MWL, Giuseppe Targia, head of space and defence at Nokia, noted that as geopolitical tensions accelerate, militaries are seeking “secure, high-speed, and resilient connectivity that can generate real-time, actionable intelligence to strengthen situational awareness and decision-making”.

This is where technology players can plug the gap.

Commercial tech goes to war
Indeed, for Henry Orejuela, head of government sales and business development at Globalstar, the shift is being driven by real-world pressure. In an interview with MWL, he said: “The wars of today are exposing the vulnerabilities that come when communications aren’t resilient, discreet, or globally available,” he said. “Agencies like the US Army are actively scouting technologies that can operate in austere and contested environments where infrastructure is absent or compromised.”

Globalstar, a US-based telco specialising in commercial satellite-to-phone services and a high-profile $1.1 billion deal in place with Apple to power emergency connectivity on iPhones, is now turning its expertise toward covert, low-power, narrowband satellite communications. “The reality is that geopolitical tensions are forcing militaries to think in terms of scale – thousands of low-cost, resilient sensors or unmanned systems that can operate undetected for months,” Orejuela explained. “That shift is what’s opening the door for Globalstar to play a more prominent role in defence satcom.”

The growing influx of telco and satellite providers is changing what is possible in military communications. According to Kannadoss, defence and commercial connectivity needs are converging as militaries often seek the same technologies, such as reliable satellite links, mobile terminals and non-geostationary orbit capabilities, with added layers of security. The appeal of commercial connectivity players lies in “the need for adaptability and resilience”, she said.

Orejuela agreed that lessons from Globalstar’s commercial legacy and partnerships have translated directly into military advantage. “Commercial experience has honed our ability to miniaturise devices, extend battery life to years on AAA batteries, or even integrate solar for decade-long endurance,” he explained. “Those same design disciplines carry over into military IoT use cases where small form factor, low power, and cost-effectiveness are non-negotiable.”

For instance, CRADA with the US army aims to refine such innovations. According to Orejuela, the deal is “about more than testing – it’s about co-developing an understanding of requirements and how Globalstar can fill gaps”. “The goal is to advance the state of the art in battery endurance, miniaturisation, and LPI/LPD characteristics.”

Kannadoss added that utilising commercial satcom capabilities has already saved the US Department of Defence more than 25 per cent in satellite communications costs between 2019 and 2024, while also giving operators access to stable, long-term contracts.

Tactical 5G
Nokia’s Targia believes commercial 5G in particular has the potential to redefine how militaries connect and coordinate on the battlefield. Many military networks still rely on proprietary technologies “with limited interoperability”.

He said: “Today’s armed forces are looking to complement traditional solutions with proven, standardised technologies like 5G and AI.” Nokia’s approach centres on bringing standardised, scalable systems built on 3GPP protocols for easier interoperability.

“Our 5G solutions are integrated with existing or new defence platforms to enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities,” he said. “They can offer better data capabilities, since 5G’s speed and low latency enable real-time AI applications on the battlefield.” He added that Nokia’s 5G systems offer up to ten times more capacity and at a tenth of the cost of traditional proprietary systems.

The Finnish vendor’s military portfolio now spans backpack-ready radios and vehicle-mounted systems capable of supporting voice, video, and data at the tactical edge. These systems, Targia explained, “enable coalition forces to maintain secure, reliable communications” while supporting mobile command operations on the move.

Nokia has already tested its defence vision in Joint Viking 2025, a large-scale NATO drill in Norway focused on allied interoperability. Its 5G AirScale radios and standalone 5G core powered advanced defence applications, boosting situational awareness and coordination across units. The 5G platform delivered real-time battlefield intelligence to command centres, enabling faster, data-driven decisions. Targia said the results from the exercise showed how “diverse battlefield assets – drones, sensors, and autonomous systems – can operate together more effectively”.

Interoperability still a battlefield
But even as technologies evolve, old hardware remains a sticking point. As militaries begin to adopt advanced satellite and telecom architectures, “they often struggle to maintain seamless communication”, Kannadoss observed. Decades-old platforms “cannot readily integrate with newer, more dynamic infrastructures”, she noted. “While commercial satellite and telecom providers bring remarkable technological agility to the table, they often fall short in addressing the deep interoperability challenges faced by defence communications,” she warned.

However, this challenge calls for even “deeper collaboration between defence agencies and commercial providers to co-develop modular, mission-adaptive communication”. Looking ahead, Kannadoss warned that “without collaborative efforts, we risk building fragmented architectures that are difficult to scale or secure”.

Looking ahead
In Kannadoss’ view, a convergence between terrestrial and satellite networks is the next leap in military connectivity. 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) are enabling “seamless integration of terrestrial and satellite networks, ensuring that soldiers, ships, and aircraft stay connected even in denied or remote environments”

Trials are already under way, she noted, citing the US Department of Defence, European militaries and industry players such as OneWeb and Nokia all “accelerating 5G NTN trials for secure, interoperable tactical networks”.

The shift is unmistakable: The defence sector is seeking technological prowess, flexibility and cost-efficiency of commercial systems, while technology companies are securing stable, long-term partnerships. For Orejuela, the crowded defence race isn’t about “trying to be all things to all people – we’re focused on a differentiated position: covert, resilient, low-power, narrowband satcom that complements broadband systems”. For Targia, it’s about building “secure, integrated communications in any mission scenario.”

As Kannadoss summed up, the defence communications market is “gradually moving into a new phase of growth,” driven by multi-orbit networks, spectrum innovation, and higher-frequency bands. Yet progress, she warned, will hinge on “continued dialogue between stakeholders and a focus on interoperable, adaptable systems.”

It is clear that in modern warfare, staying connected is now as vital as staying armed.

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The partners explained their newly developed codec offers considerably higher compression efficiency than current standards without significantly increasing complexity.

They also pointed to improved energy efficiency and scalability from using the experimental technology.

Explaining there is “early evidence” the technology is “capable of meeting the requirements for the next video coding standardisation phase”, the trio stated the proof of concept had been positively evaluated by the ITU-T Video Coding Experts Group and ISO/IEC Moving Picture Experts Group. Both are involved in standardisation.

The next standard in this area is expected to come into operation in 2029 or 2030, around the same time forecast for early 6G deployments.

Future protocols in this area are expected to support a wide range of video types including mobile communications and streaming, alongside immersive and low-latency applications expected to emerge in the 6G era.

The partners identified a range of potential supported uses including professional, user and AI-generated content; gaming and 3D media; content for machine consumption; and automotive and industrial applications.

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The Vietnamese operator is tasking Nokia with improving infrastructure around Hanoi, in border areas and the southern region. The vendor noted the geographies cover important economic and social hubs, with the upgrades expected to contribute to broader financial growth and digital inclusion goals.

VNPT CEO Huynh Quang Liem said the work will aid targets around boosting connectivity and digital access.

Nokia stated it would provide VNPT with equipment from its AirScale portfolio running its ReefShark system-on-chip technology.

The operator can expect a boost in network capacity, reduced power consumption and low-latency, Nokia explained.

Hiro Miura, head of Southeast Asia Market Unit at Nokia, said the areas covered by the upgrade would gain “better access to essential digital services” and related economic benefits.

The agreement builds on a move Nokia made in 2024 to establish an AirScale manufacturing hub in Vietnam.

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“We delivered a solid performance in Q3,” with all business groups growing, he stated.

Next month he said the company will share its strategy to “unlock the full potential” of its portfolio and the steps it is taking to focus the company to deliver growth.

He added the AI supercycle is accelerating demand for providers of advanced connectivity, claiming Nokia is “uniquely positioned” to be a leader.

Following a strategic review, Hotard noted it decided to scale down its passive venture fund investments, resulting in an increase of €100 million to its operating profit outlook, which is now €1.7 billion to €2.2 billion.

Q3 results
Net profit dropped 54 per cent year-on-year to €80 million, with total revenue rising 12 per cent to €4.8 billion, led by 28 per cent growth in network infrastructure sales and 19 per cent growth in optical network revenue.

Its mobile network business was flat at €1.8 billion, while cloud and network services increased 8 per cent to €645 million.

Hotard said its gross margin declined 150 basis points year-on-year, due to an expected weaker software contribution in mobile networks, balancing the higher-than-normal contribution in Q2, and product mix effects in network infrastructure.

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During a media briefing, Nokia system engineer Paul Hatfield explained that Analyze This was “designed to act like an expert network engineer, but faster and more efficient”. The tool continuously monitors device performance data to identify anomalies, analyse root causes and recommend corrective actions. Pilot deployments began last month with selected customers.

Amit Shah, head of applications in Nokia’s CNS-ECE division, emphasised the simplicity of the design, noting that users are not expected to interpret cellular metrics. Instead, colour-coded indicators highlight whether KPIs such as latency or throughput are within an acceptable range. The tool supports more than 100 types of anomalies and correlations, with sensitivity settings that can be adjusted by customers, and is capable of drawing correlations across devices, cells, locations and timeframes.

Shah underscored the importance of accessibility, explaining that the goal was to “remove complexity” and create “a single source of truth” for enterprises deploying networks across ports, mines, factories and other industrial settings. “What matters to our customer is how is the device experiencing the network,” he stated.

Avoid hallucinations
Hatfield emphasised that Analyze This is not built on generative AI, which enables the system to avoid “hallucinations”. Instead, he explained that it integrates the “expert knowledge” accumulated by Nokia’s network specialists and R&D teams into an automated analysis using AI and machine learning techniques.

The software operates with a small footprint on-premises, running on Nokia’s MXIE industrial edge platform and requiring no large data centre resources. It is available as a licensable add-on for existing NDT subscribers under a flat subscription model.

“Our customers are not CSPs,” Shah concluded. “They are not experts in radio planning… They care more about, how quickly can I get my truck from pit to port? How quickly can I get that robot on the factory floor?… That’s why we bring this capability into the foreground and into their hand.”

Nokia further pushed its digital twins ambitions this week with the launch of an FTTH digital twin on its Altiplano network automation platform to provide a unified view of active and passive fibre components, alongside new AI tools to improve reliability and efficiency across fibre deployments.

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The vendor stated that under a global agreement, it will combine Juniper Networks’ RIC with its MantaRay AI-powered Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) and network automation assets.

RIC and SMO development teams from HPE moved to Nokia Mobile Networks division on 1 October as part of the deal.

In a post on LinkedIn before Nokia’s announcement, Constantine Polychronopoulos, group VP of 5G and Telco Cloud at Juniper Networks, said it would team with Nokia Mobile Networks’ network management team, while hailing five years of work to develop its RIC platform and SMO system for on-demand and end-to-end network slicing.

Tommi Uitto, president of Mobile Networks at Nokia, stated customers worldwide would benefit from the enhanced capabilities of its “AI-driven automation, orchestration and open ecosystems, enabling them to manage multi-vendor networks more efficiently and prepare for the transition from 5G to 6G”.

Operators including Rakuten Symphony, Deutsche Telekom and Vodafone Group previously announced trials of Juniper Networks’ RIC platform.

MantaRay SMO is Nokia’s advanced-AI driven, zero touch automation product which it states is fully open-RAN compliant.

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The Callio FutureMINE site in Pyhajarvi is one of the deepest in Europe and operated as a commercial copper mine for more than 60 years, Boldyn Networks stated.

Today the site is used to provide a real-world testbed for technology and equipment, helping companies to simulate the extreme challenges posed by deep underground connectivity.

Boldyn Networks combined its private 5G products with Nokia’s Modular Private Wireless systems to deliver high-bandwidth, ultra-low latency connectivity in a network of tunnels spanning several kms in length and 1.5km in depth.

Henrik Kiviniemi, MD of Callio Pyhajarvi, said the right technology can deliver safety benefits alongside operational improvements. The private 5G network helps to ensure “every person and asset is visible and protected”.

The infrastructure is contributing to the company’s goal of making the mine a “world-class testbed” for automation and safety technologies, Kiviniemi said.

Boldyn Networks stated testing underway using the network includes automated and tele-remote vehicles; voice services which replace walkie-talkie systems; and real-time visualisation and positioning work involving digital twins.

Michael Aspinall, head of Enterprise Campus Edge sales in Europe at Nokia, said private 5G is particularly well suited to address the challenges of the mining sector.

The potential is not lost on Nokia’s key rivals Ericsson and Huawei, which are each pursuing opportunities in the mining sector.

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