Singtel, Ericsson invest $2m in 5G network

5G workshops, tests, and demos will start before the year ends.

Singtel and Ericsson made an initial investment of S$2m into a Centre of Excellence (CoE) that will focus on deploying a 5G network in Singapore.

According to a press release, the CoE will also be open to Optus and Singtel's regional associates.

5G is expected to roll out globally from 2020. The network will deliver massive connectivity, ultra-low latency, gigabit speeds, and enable advanced applications such as smart cities, Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality and autonomous vehicles.

Co-funded by Singtel and Ericsson with an initial investment of S$2 million over the next three years, CoE aims to spearhead the development of Singapore’s 5G mobile network infrastructure to support future Smart Nation initiatives.

The CoE's activities will start in late 2017. Ericsson will initially provide 5G workshops, tests, and hands-on experience to over 100 Singtel engineers to help them design and operate a 5G network.

5G demos will also be set up in Singtel’s Comcentre headquarters to network applications, like Augmented Reality, enablement of haptic feedback in surgical operations, and remote medical education.

Starting next year, a mobile 5G test bed will also be deployed to carry out live 5G field trials with key enterprise customers.

Singtel tap researchers and institutions for opportunities to test 5G radios and possible applications that can benefit from the high speeds and low latency provided by 5G.

Martin Wiktorin, president and country manager for Singapore, Brunei & Philippines, Ericsson, said, "The establishment of the 5G CoE is timely and goes hand in hand with the Government’s move to encourage industry trials in 5G. Together with Singtel, we plan to set up a 5G test bed in 2018 for trials with key enterprise customers, with the objective of enabling a strong foundation to help design Singapore’s 5G future."