Hajra Naz
To encourage AI-RAN innovation, NVIDIA is spending $1 billion on Nokia. Radio access networks and artificial intelligence are combined in AI-RAN. Leading the world’s transition from 5G to 6G is the aim.
Both businesses will construct cutting-edge computer systems and mobile networks driven by AI. The 6G-ready Arc Aerial RAN Computer was introduced by NVIDIA. The upcoming generation of intelligent telecom infrastructure will be powered by it. In order to increase its global presence, Nokia intends to include this technology in its devices.
The partnership has been expanded to include T-Mobile U.S. It will test and direct its 6G development plans using AI-RAN. The project will also benefit from Dell Technologies’ PowerEdge servers, which meet demands for high-performance computing.
This partnership marks a big moment for the telecom industry. It lays the foundation for the AI-native 6G era.
Building the Foundation for AI-Driven Connectivity
Under the agreement, NVIDIA will invest $1 billion in Nokia at a share price of $6.01, pending final approvals. Together, they will add NVIDIA-powered AI-RAN systems to Nokia’s existing lineup, enabling telecom companies to launch AI-based 5G-Advanced and 6G networks.
The collaboration will help build smarter, faster, and more efficient networks that can handle the growing wave of AI traffic—from smartphones and connected vehicles to drones and AR/VR devices.
Industry analysts estimate the AI-RAN market could exceed $200 billion by 2030. This makes the NVIDIA–Nokia partnership one of the most significant steps toward commercializing AI in telecom infrastructure.
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How It Will Shape the 6G Future
Starting in 2026, T-Mobile will begin field trials of AI-RAN technologies in the U.S. These tests will measure real-world improvements in speed, performance, and energy use.
The goal is to build networks that not only support faster data speeds but also learn and adapt in real time—making them ideal for future devices that use generative and agent-based AI.
NVIDIA’s new Aerial RAN Computer Pro (ARC-Pro) will play a central role. It’s designed to merge computing, sensing, and connectivity into a single platform, enabling telecom providers to upgrade from 5G to 6G through simple software updates.
What Industry Leaders Are Saying
Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, said:
“Telecommunications is the digital nervous system of our economy. With AI-RAN, we’re helping America reclaim its leadership in global telecom by building intelligent, adaptive networks.”
Justin Hotard, CEO of Nokia, added:
“The next leap isn’t just from 5G to 6G — it’s a complete redesign. With NVIDIA’s investment, we’ll bring AI-powered connectivity to the edge and make AI-driven data centers available to everyone.”
Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Technologies, commented:
“The telecom industry owns the most valuable AI real estate — the edge. This partnership turns that potential into reality by pushing intelligence where it matters most.”
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Supporting the Surge in AI Traffic
AI usage is exploding worldwide. Nearly half of ChatGPT’s 800 million weekly users now access it on mobile, with over 40 million downloads each month.
Nokia’s AI-RAN systems powered by NVIDIA will help operators manage this rapid growth. These systems will deliver better speed, reliability, and energy efficiency, while supporting billions of connected devices—from autonomous cars to immersive AR glasses.
A Seamless Path to 6G
Nokia’s new AI-RAN solution, powered by NVIDIA ARC-Pro, will allow telecom providers to move smoothly from existing 5G networks to AI-driven 6G infrastructure.
Its anyRAN approach ensures that both cloud-based and traditional networks can adopt AI upgrades without replacing existing hardware. This flexibility helps reduce costs while future-proofing investments for the 6G era.
Dell’s PowerEdge servers will handle the massive computing needs of AI-RAN, allowing remote software upgrades and scalability for global networks.
Together, these innovations will create a flexible, software-defined foundation for 6G — one that evolves as AI evolves.
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FAQs
1. What does AI-RAN mean?
AI-RAN stands for Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network. It integrates AI into mobile networks to make them more efficient, faster, and smarter.
2. Why is NVIDIA investing in Nokia?
NVIDIA’s $1 billion investment will speed up AI-RAN innovation and help both companies lead the transition from 5G to 6G.
3. How will this partnership impact consumers?
Users will experience faster connections, reduced latency, and better performance for AI-heavy apps like virtual assistants, AR, and real-time video.
4. What role does T-Mobile play?
T-Mobile U.S. will test and validate AI-RAN technologies starting in 2026 to help shape 6G development and ensure better network performance.
5. When will AI-powered 6G be available?
Early trials begin in 2026. Full-scale deployment is expected closer to 2030, aligning with the global rollout of 6G networks.
