Airtel Business, the enterprise division of India's Bharti Airtel, has reported strong demand for private 5G services among its enterprise clients. Since launching its 5G network in October 2022, Airtel now serves over 90 million 5G customers across India, according to a senior executive cited in a DCD report.

Demand for Airtel's Private 5G Services

Airtel Business has reportedly seen a significant demand for 5G services from its enterprise customers. "Since launching 5G, we have observed significant demand from our enterprise customers for solutions that harness this technology's full potential," said Alok Shukla, SVP of data products and business solutions at Airtel Business.

"Customers are keen on how 5G can enhance their digital transformation efforts, from boosting operational efficiency to developing new business models," Shukla was quoted as saying.

Key 5G Applications: URLLC, mMTC, and eMBB

These requests reportedly include ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) for critical applications, massive machine-type communications (mMTC) for IoT devices, and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) for high-speed data requirements.

Power Smart Factories and Automation

Shukla added that Airtel is deploying private 5G networks for enterprises, with applications in areas like smart factories and autonomous vehicles.

"Many industries are seeking customised solutions, such as Private 5G networks, tailored to their operational requirements," Shukla explained, according to the report.

"Our Private 5G networks enable applications such as smart factories, autonomous vehicles, and real-time quality control. These solutions help businesses optimise operations, reduce costs, and increase productivity. For instance, smart factories gain from automation and robotics, while logistics improve accuracy through better inventory management and asset tracking," he added, according to the report.

Airtel is Testing Network Slicing

Shukla also revealed that Airtel is testing end-to-end network slicing, a technology that allows telecom operators to create separate and isolated networks for different use cases. Each "slice" can be configured to meet industry-specific needs.

"This technology creates multiple virtual networks within a single physical 5G infrastructure, each customised to meet the specific needs of industries like healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing," he explained, noting it will drive new business model innovations and diverse applications across sectors, the report said.