Optus and Nokia sign 5G MoU

Optus and Nokia have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the evolution of 5G technologies.

A key part of the effort will be a 5G trial using Optus’s 3500 MHz spectrum. The two companies will deploy an early 5G prototype in the band in Australia by 2017.

Optus has conducted initial closed tests with Nokia at its Sydney headquarters on a new 5G radio test bed on Nokia’s Airscale product.

A separate trial demonstrated the capability of Narrow Band-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) to support the connectivity needs of IoT applications.

The two companies have said they will collaborate on a range of issues, including:

• exploration and trials for new network architectures and applications;
• building technology leadership in 5G by demonstrating pre-commercial 5G systems at an undisclosed major sporting event;
• promoting 5G global standardisation and industrialisation. Optus, through Singtel, participates in the NGMN Alliance to give operator inputs to 5G standardisation. Nokia will share the latest 3GPP and ITU 5G technology design concepts, new product launches, innovations and technologies.