Ericsson is working with Orange France to carry out a series of 5G RAN trials.

The trials are part of plans to create more efficient, flexible, and sustainable 5G networks, noted Ericsson.

The two will conduct a focused program of experimental trials, based on Ericsson’s RAN, in preparation for future RAN evolutions.

Ericsson stated that it aims to “enhance spectral efficiency, accelerate network automation, and promote sustainability across mobile networks.”

As such, Orange France will evaluate these technologies under live network conditions in France to prepare its future RAN roadmap and bring greater network automation to millions of Orange France customers.

Orange will pilot Ericsson’s FDD Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radios, with the purpose of optimizing the use of existing spectral assets in zones with high-traffic demand.

This will see multiple deployment configurations being tested in France to “precisely adapt to various traffic profiles and maximize spectral efficiency, capacity, and user experience.”

The carrier will also work closely with Ericsson to drive energy efficiency across its mobile networks.

“Our strategic partnership with Ericsson is accelerating our journey towards enhanced networks for our customers. By leveraging breakthrough spectrum, sustainable technologies, and cloud-native solutions, Orange is working to advance its autonomous networks journey and deliver the best 5G experience,” said Emmanuel Lugagne Delpon, CTO of networks at Orange France.

Earlier this summer, Orange confirmed that it had selected Ericsson to support its deployment of 5G network slices across Europe.

Cloud RAN trials

Ericsson also announced that the two companies have launched a two-year trial to explore Cloud RAN and Open RAN architecture.

Both note that Cloud RAN will enable flexible, software-centric networks that reduce time-to-market and support innovation.

Orange recently carried out a call over Ericsson’s Cloud RAN platform in Paris. Ericsson states that the call marked a “key step forward in RAN evolution.”