Orange France and Ericsson have launched a series of targeted trials exploring Massive MIMO radios, AI- and automation-driven 5G energy-saving features, and advancements in cloud and Open RAN deployments. The companies describe this as a focused program designed to boost spectral efficiency, speed up network automation, and drive greater sustainability across mobile networks.
Orange is trialling Ericsson’s FDD Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radios to optimise the use of its existing spectrum in high-traffic areas. Several deployment configurations are being tested across France to fine-tune performance for different traffic patterns and maximise spectral efficiency, capacity, and overall user experience.
The companies are also developing software solutions and 5G features aimed at improving energy efficiency across mobile networks. Leveraging service-aware, intent-driven automation and AI, the initiative marks what they describe as “a major leap forward in intelligent energy management,” enabling network resources to be dynamically adjusted based on real-time traffic demands.
Orange and Ericsson have also begun a two-year trial centred on Cloud RAN and Open RAN architectures. The companies say they have already achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of Orange’s first call using Ericsson’s Cloud RAN platform.
Orange is also testing the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) along with AI-driven Ericsson rApps (RAN automation applications). The operator says this effort is designed to “accelerate the adoption of programmable, efficient networks that enable advanced performance optimisation.”
Our strategic partnership with Ericsson is accelerating our efforts to deliver more advanced networks for our customers,” said Emmanuel Lugagne Delpon, CTO Networks at Orange France. “By harnessing cutting-edge spectrum technologies, sustainable innovations, and cloud-native solutions, Orange is pushing forward on its autonomous networks journey to provide the best possible 5G experience.
Christian Leon, CEO of Ericsson France, added: “Our collaboration with Orange on these pioneering trials reflects our shared commitment to shaping the networks of the future. By combining Ericsson’s innovation strengths with Orange’s vision, we are setting new standards for performance, sustainability, and openness in mobile networks.
Earlier this month, Ericsson secured a three-year contract to upgrade VodafoneZiggo’s mobile network across the Netherlands. The deal is intended to support rising mobile data demand and pave the way for new consumer, enterprise, and IoT use cases.
The project spans 3,000 sites and includes deploying VodafoneZiggo’s newly acquired 3.5 GHz spectrum. It also involves modernising the existing network infrastructure and overseeing performance management of the upgraded network, according to details shared at the time.
