On Feb 15, 2017 Ericsson launched its new 5G platform which comprises the 5G core, radio and transport portfolios, together with digital support systems, transformation services and security.
On light with that, Isil Yalcin, Head of Ericsson Network Products, Region Middle East, spoke to “Arabia Technology” in the below interview:
1-The new launched functionalities- how do they improve the readiness for adoption of 5G?
With the new launch all the components of the 5G platform are in place and we are making our system truly end-to-end. With the new products, we are introducing full portfolio that cover 5G core, radio and transport portfolios, together with digital support systems, transformation services and security is in place. Ericsson 5G portfolio will help telecom operators to experiment with new revenue streams as various industries are going through a massive digitization transformation.
2-How cost-expensive is it going to be for the operators to be first movers in 5G?
In order for operators to be cost-effective in their move to 5G, they have to rely on the existing 4G technology to act as the anchor coverage providing layer. Ericsson has developed solutions called 5G plug-ins for smooth transition to 5G.
3-What are key elements to be 5G ready?
Ericsson’s new 5G platform comprises the 5G core, radio and transport portfolios, together with digital support systems, transformation services and security. It is very important to look at the end-to-end aspect of 5G. 5G readiness also means to have at least a use case in mind to implement with the new technology in collaboration with related industries and academia.
4-What makes Ericsson’s platform end-to-end even before the 5G standards have been finalised?
Ericsson’s new 5G platform comprises the 5G core, radio and transport portfolios, together with digital support systems, transformation services and security, which is the first of its kind. Ericsson is also a leader in 5G standardization activities working closely with the 5G front runners globally. This gives Ericsson the opportunity to be among the first to develop such a truly end to end and complete 5G offering.
5-When can operators actually start generating ROI out of 5G investments?
The ROI of 5G investments will depend on many factors especially the pick-up rate of the offered service as well as how it is priced. All operators will be doing this exercise as part of their investment planning in order to decide on how to invest in 5G.
6-What are the main challenges you foresee on the way to adoption and commercial deployment of 5G?
According to Ericsson survey of top Executives to better understand the 5G readiness of operators around the world. Among the top identified challenges are:
Lack of mature Ecosystem
Developing appropriate use cases
Concerns around data security and privacy
