Singapore's Mobile Network Operator M1 has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ericsson to enhance the capacity and performance of its IP and microwave networks using the AI-powered Ericsson Transport Automation Controller. This marks the world's first live network deployment for combined IP and microwave networks supporting advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities, M1 said in a recent statement.

Proof of Concept

As part of the agreement, M1 will conduct a proof of concept for IP and microwave use cases on its network by Q4 2024, leveraging Ericsson's technology to improve its 5G Standalone (SA) network. The goal is to deliver higher bandwidth, lower latency, and more resilient connectivity. M1's existing transport network infrastructure, which includes Ericsson Router 6000 IP nodes and Mini-Link microwave connections, will be central to this enhancement.

Enhanced Network Performance

According to the official release, the Ericsson Transport Automation Controller is a cloud-native, intelligent system that uses AI and ML to provide real-time insights and automation across microwave, IP, and optical networks. It helps operators like M1 optimise network performance, reduce human error, and perform proactive maintenance by pinpointing issues such as degradation and capacity utilisation.

M1 said, "M1 aims to deliver more value to users by deploying the latest technology in our network as we continue to modernise our 4G and 5G mobile transport network by bringing in advanced automation capabilities and AI. With the Ericsson Transport Automation Controller, we aim to deliver even higher quality network performance and prepare the network for even more customers with advanced 5G Standalone use cases. This extended collaboration is also part of M1's effort in driving our company-wide automation and AI goals."

Expanding Collaboration

With this, M1 extends its partnership with Ericsson leveraging the Intelligent Transport Automation Controller, which provides real-time insights from both IP and microwave networks and helps M1 enhance its 5G Standalone network.