Ericsson and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have announced an initial three-year research and development partnership focused on three research projects aimed at advancing telecommunication networks with cutting edge technologies.
The needs of the future
Ericsson and KAUST’s R&D partnership will utilize machine learning for frequency-selective wireless channels, with the aim of using deep learning to solve channel estimation and resource allocation problems for massive multiple-input multiple-output systems. To address the needs of future networks – high data rates, low latency, and high security – Ericsson and KAUST will study transparent and flexible intelligent surfaces for 5G and beyond enhanced communication.
The partnership will also focus on 6G capabilities moving to higher frequencies such as Terahertz (THz) for higher data rates, in particular, backup solutions for THz communications to guarantee uninterrupted high-rate backhaul in 6G dense networks.
Professor Bradley, Vice President for Research at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology said: “We are excited to collaborate with Ericsson to develop novel architectures for future communication networks. As the demand for enhanced communications continues to expand globally, innovative technologies are increasingly needed to solve the major challenges of 5G and future 6G networks.”
Development of the ICT sector
This agreement is a by-product of stc’s Rawafed program’s vision to enable local content while contributing to the Kingdom’s ICT sector. Commenting on this agreement, Eng. Emad Alaoudah, Procurement and Support Services Vice President at stc, added, “Our partners and institutions play an important role in creating world-class networks for now and the future with a key role in empowering Saudi capabilities and development of local high-tech industry. Collaboration is a critical part of this process and this agreement is an example of partnerships that can support Saudi Vision 2030’s digital transformation mandate.”
It is believed that the research will vastly contribute to the development of next-generation 5G and 6G networks and the ICT research ecosystem along with enhanced transfer of knowledge, education and training.
Speaking on Ericsson and KAUST’s R&D partnership, Magnus Frodigh, Vice President and Head of Ericsson Research at Ericsson, said, “We are delighted to partner with KAUST as we believe an ecosystem of strong collaborative partnerships is important in enhancing communications networks. Our partnership with KAUST is part of our aspiration to encourage regional innovation by funding local research projects.”
