BT and Ericsson join forces to build 5G private networks

Reuters

Published May 31, 2022 04:04AM ET

Updated May 31, 2022 04:36AM ET

LONDON (Reuters) - Telecoms company BT and Ericsson (BS:ERICAs) have struck a multi-million pound partnership to offer private 5G networks to businesses across Britain, enabling them to deploy Internet of Things and other technologies quickly and securely.

Private 5G networks mirror public 5G, but connectivity is limited to a group of devices in a dedicated space, such as a factory, a port or a campus, where 5G's security and ultra-low latency can be fully utilised in additional services.

Marc Overton, managing director for BT's Division X, Enterprise, said the British company was working with Sweden's Ericsson, a leader in 5G technology, both in deploying and operating the networks, and also in putting applications on top.

The partners have already worked together on several major projects incorporating private 5G networks, including Belfast Harbour in Northern Ireland.

They have installed a 5G private network across 35 acres of operational port, driving operational efficiencies and optimising processes across transport, logistics, supply chain and shipping, he said.