Ericsson and Vodafone Sign Five-Year AI Network Modernization Deal

Ericsson and Vodafone have entered a five-year strategic partnership to modernize Vodafone’s network infrastructure using Ericsson’s programmable network technology, announced in a press release. The agreement designates Ericsson as Vodafone’s sole RAN vendor in Ireland, the Netherlands, and Portugal, and a major vendor in Germany, Romania, and Egypt.

Under the partnership, Vodafone will deploy Ericsson’s Open RAN-compatible Massive MIMO radios, RAN Compute solutions, and 5G Advanced RAN software across its European and African markets. The modernization effort will prepare the network for widespread 5G Standalone deployment, enabling performance-based connectivity for consumer and enterprise users.

The deal also includes the introduction of Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform and AI-powered rApps to automate RAN optimization, improve energy efficiency, and manage multi-vendor networks. Germany will be the first market to implement the automation platform, with deployment beginning in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Vodafone aims to enhance real-time network management and energy performance through AI and automation features provided by Ericsson’s 5G Advanced solutions. The companies stated that the partnership will establish a foundation for future autonomous network capabilities and support new connectivity services across Vodafone’s operating regions.