Verizon expands AI-RAN automation with Ericsson

Verizon and Ericsson have agreed to expand the use of artificial intelligence in Verizon’s radio access network through a nationwide rollout of the Ericsson Intelligent Controller. The platform will support AI-native automation applications, known as rApps, developed by both companies to enhance performance and operations across mobility and fixed wireless access services. This marks the latest phase in a long-running collaboration focused on building autonomous, software-driven networks.

The Ericsson Intelligent Controller is an open, standards-based platform that provides a programmable environment for deploying rApps. It is a key component of the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform, which manages network automation for open, multi-vendor and multi-technology 4G and 5G radio access networks and Ericsson core networks. The platform underpins an ecosystem of more than 100 available rApps from over 100 members.

Field deployment of fully autonomous optimization rApps on Verizon’s network has already demonstrated measurable performance improvements. These rApps have delivered gains of up to 8.9% in downlink data radio bearer throughput and up to 8% in uplink throughput. The optimization applications include capabilities such as the Advanced Antenna System Cell shaper, which adjusts radio parameters to improve traffic handling.

Verizon executives describe the expanded collaboration as bringing AI-native RAN automation that elevates performance across both mobility and fixed wireless access. Ericsson leaders highlight that the joint work is driving gains in network performance and building a more efficient and autonomous network. Verizon and Ericsson say AI-based automation can generate tangible benefits in live commercial environments.

As part of the deployment, Verizon has implemented a Connected Mode Inter-Radio Access Technology handover methodology from LTE to standalone 5G for fixed wireless access devices. This implementation, delivered as an rApp on the Ericsson Intelligent Controller, eliminates the need for manual intervention in the event of relevant handover failures. By automating this process, Verizon aims to improve service continuity and reduce operational workloads associated with managing fixed wireless access connections.

The open and programmable nature of the Ericsson Intelligent Controller allows Verizon to develop and run its own rApps alongside those supplied by Ericsson. This flexibility supports Verizon’s broader strategy of moving toward higher levels of network autonomy, with increasing use of closed-loop control to manage complex radio environments.

Verizon plans to test and deploy additional rApps designed to enhance network reliability and operational efficiency. These planned applications include the Cell Anomaly Detector rApp, the Root Cause Explainer rApp and the Anomaly General Optimizer rApp. Together, they focus on automatically identifying network anomalies, explaining underlying causes and optimizing performance without manual intervention.

Verizon characterizes the nationwide Ericsson Intelligent Controller deployment as a step on its journey toward level 4 network automation, where many processes are almost fully automated and closed-loop control is more widely applied. By combining its self-designed rApps with Ericsson’s portfolio within an open, standards-based framework, Verizon is positioning its radio access network for greater autonomy and scalability as AI-native use cases continue to evolve.