Ericsson 5G Deals: AI, Hong Kong & APAC Expansion

Hong Kong’s SmarTone Telecommunications has partnered with Ericsson to deploy 5G-Advanced (5G-A) technology, aiming to enhance network capabilities and deliver more programmable and flexible services. The collaboration, announced on February 4, 2026, will see Ericsson supply its latest generation of radio equipment to SmarTone, bolstering the operator’s 5G network infrastructure.

The deployment focuses on introducing new Radio Access Network (RAN) capabilities, aligning with SmarTone’s ambition to create a high-performing, programmable network. Ericsson’s 5G-A technology supports dynamic control of network resources through automation, artificial intelligence, and intent-based operations, allowing SmarTone to tailor connectivity based on specific service requirements and performance levels.

Hardware Upgrades for Efficiency and Capacity

A key component of the upgrade involves the deployment of Ericsson’s latest radio equipment, including massive MIMO radios. These radios are designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce weight, simplifying rollout and lowering operating costs. The AIR 3255 model, specifically, consumes 30% less energy and has a 20% lower embodied CO2 footprint compared to the previous generation, according to Ericsson. SmarTone will also deploy 24 kg triple-band macro radios to expand coverage and capacity while maintaining power efficiency.

Programmable Networks and Service Differentiation

The move towards 5G-A capabilities enables SmarTone to adopt programmable networks, allowing for dynamic control of network resources. This is achieved through the integration of automation, AI, and intent-based operations. These capabilities are designed to help operators tailor connectivity based on specific service requirements, including differentiated performance levels and service-level agreements.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, the partnership aims to support service differentiation through network slicing, edge computing, and exposed network APIs. These technologies will enable SmarTone to offer tailored enterprise and consumer services with adjustable quality levels, catering to diverse needs, and applications.

Ericsson’s APAC Boost and Hong Kong Focus

This deal with SmarTone represents a positive development for Ericsson in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The Hong Kong-based agreement may provide some respite for Ericsson’s ambitions in the broader China-adjacent markets, particularly as the company reported a 5% decrease in sales in Northeast Asia in its latest financials.

While a June 1, 2020 agreement saw Ericsson become SmarTone’s sole 5G network supplier for a five-year period, leveraging Spectrum Sharing technology, this latest collaboration signifies a deepening of that relationship and a move towards more advanced 5G capabilities. The initial 2020 agreement focused on cost-efficient, wide-area 5G coverage through software upgrades, enabling both 4G and 5G networks to operate on the same radio.

Spectrum Sharing and 5G Expansion

SmarTone was the first operator in Hong Kong to deploy Ericsson’s Spectrum Sharing technology, combining high, mid, and low spectrum bands to deploy a 3.5 GHz spectrum across the country. This 3.5 GHz spectrum is intended to cover a majority of outdoor and indoor locations, providing seamless 5G connectivity. The initial phase aimed to deliver low-latency 5G network access to nearly 70% of Hong Kong’s population, with a goal of achieving citywide 5G coverage by mid-2021.

Broader 5G Ecosystem and Innovation

Ericsson is also actively involved in demonstrating the potential of 5G beyond Hong Kong. The company, along with Far EasTone and OPPO, recently showcased an AI-driven 5G Standalone ecosystem designed to deliver differentiated connectivity. This highlights Ericsson’s broader efforts to leverage 5G technology and AI to create innovative solutions for businesses and consumers across the APAC region and beyond. At GITEX AI ASIA 2026, Ericsson plans to share real-world 5G use cases from APAC, demonstrating how enterprises are utilizing 5G to improve agility, resilience, and efficiency.

The partnership with SmarTone underscores the ongoing evolution of 5G networks and the increasing importance of programmable infrastructure. As operators seek to unlock new revenue streams and deliver enhanced services, collaborations like this one will be crucial in driving innovation and expanding the reach of 5G technology.