Swedish telecom equipment manufacturer Ericsson and IIT Kharagpur have forged a long-term partnership for joint research in artificial intelligence (AI), Compute, and Radio domains. Under this collaboration, the two entities have inked two agreements enabling researchers from Ericsson and IIT Kharagpur to collaborate on pioneering AI and distributed Compute technologies aimed at 6G research. Ericsson emphasized that AI and Compute Research are crucial for its 6G networks, as dynamic compute offload management at the edge and AI-driven policies are paramount.
Virendra Kumar Tewari, Director of IIT Kharagpur, highlighted the collaboration’s significance in advancing Digital India and positioning the nation as a technological innovation hub. He expressed that integrating 6G networks with artificial intelligence will enhance the efficiency and speed of AI-powered applications. In the 6G era, IIT Kharagpur aims to contribute to various areas such as radio access technology, core network, radio frequency (RF) and device technologies, VLSI design, neuromorphic signal processing, and services and applications. The institute also plans to engage in telecom standardization processes, develop test beds, prototypes, and commercialization avenues, and focus on training and manpower development.
Magnus Frodigh, Head of Ericsson Research, underscored the collaboration’s role in reinforcing their research and development commitments in India, particularly in Radio, Compute, and AI domains. He expressed enthusiasm for collaborative research in fundamental areas and translational research for future network platforms. Nitin Bansal, Managing Director of Ericsson India, emphasized Ericsson’s dedication to 6G innovation and substantial research and development investments in India. He highlighted Ericsson’s commitment to providing affordable network platforms for ubiquitous connectivity nationwide, building on its 5G and technology leadership.
