CTO Focus Sessions

Join Erik Ekudden and John Saw, CTO at T-Mobile US, as they reveal key insights into the evolution of networks and the exciting future of 5G services. John highlights T-Mobile's commitment to building the best-performing 5G network and their innovative use of network slicing for diverse applications such as point-of-sale terminals and real-time mobile reporting at major sports events. Additionally, John discusses the potential for Edge AI from the telco edge, speaking about the dynamic partnership between Ericsson and T-Mobile. Together, they are at the forefront of pioneering innovation in the telecommunications industry, pushing the boundaries of 5G, AI, and network evolution to newer benchmarks.

Join Erik Ekudden and Randeep Sekhon, CTO at Bharti Airtel, as they discuss the rapid transition from 4G to 5G in India and the promising opportunities it presents for the telecom industry.

The conversation offers a deep-dive into the transformative impact of 5G technology; it is a reaffirmation of the robust partnership between Ericsson and Bharti Airtel as they drive forward India's telecommunications future with cutting-edge solutions and stellar network performance.

Join Erik Ekudden and Joe Russo, EVP & President of Global Networks and Technology, Verizon, as they share their insights on the dynamic partnership between Verizon and Ericsson, aimed at transforming 5G monetization and integrating cutting-edge technologies for robust, reliable networks. Their strategic focus includes new technology like network slicing and fixed wireless access (FWA), which have spurred significant subscriber growth and enhanced user experiences. Joe will highlight the triumphs of FWA in providing customers with choice, reliability, and high performance. He will also explore the potential of AI, mobile edge computing, and edge infrastructure in unlocking new form factors and use cases. Together, Verizon and Ericsson are committed to enhancing network programmability and expanding capabilities to fully leverage ultra-wideband, high-throughput, low latency, and end-to-end experiences.

Join Erik Ekudden and Stephen Chau, CTO at SmarTone, as they delve into the potential of 5G as the optimal high-performance network for delivering mobile services to customers in Hong Kong. Their discussion encompasses the advantages of 5G-enabled Fixed Wireless Access, the flexibility 5G brings to small and medium enterprise use cases, and the utilization of network data to elevate the customer experience. Mr Chau also shares insights into how SmarTone has surmounted challenges in hard-to-reach areas and densely populated regions by providing extensive coverage, reinforcing their reputation for exceptional network performance in Hong Kong. In addition Mr Chau also shared their experience in how to enhance user experience by applying AI in network operation and maintenance. The conversation concludes with an exploration of 5G as an innovation platform, featuring ongoing trials that demonstrate its capacity to deliver Quality of Service On Demand, catering to the diverse needs of user groups, like gamers.

Join Erik Ekudden and Dr. Gerd Niehage, CTIO at Swisscom, as they delve into Swisscom's strategy. Swisscom is transitioning from having the best network to establishing the smartest network, recognizing that being the best is no longer enough. Swisscom is working towards creating The Smartest Network in partnership with Ericsson. As the company looks ahead, new priorities are emerging, including a focus on providing the best customer experience, promoting sustainability, achieving operational excellence, and driving innovation.

Enterprise digital transformation powered by 5G and AI

In this session Erik Ekudden and Juergen Mueller CTO and Member of the Executive Board of SAP discuss how enterprises across all sectors are undergoing a digital transformation and the role that 5G and Artificial Intelligence (AI) play as key enablers in the digitalization. They emphasize the importance of real-time data collection and processing for organizations aspiring to become data-driven enterprises. This highlights the increasing demand for high-performance 5G connectivity and 5G capabilities exposed through open network APIs (Application Programming Interface) to developers. Another focal point of their discussion revolves around how AI and Machine Learning plays a crucial role in automating processes, enhancing customer experiences, optimizing operations and making data-driven decisions. Erik and Juergen highlight that partnerships are essential to unlock new digital business opportunities and together we are committed to support enterprises in their digital transformation journey.

Focus Insights: Enterprise Digitalization

Ericsson’s CTO Erik Ekudden and Vinod Lala, Chief Strategy Officer at Vonage, further elaborate on the topic enterprise digitalization.

Vinod shares his insights on how 5G APIs and AI will support enterprises by enabling new interesting applications and use cases.

The future of gaming anywhere is 5G

In this session Ericsson’s CTO Erik Ekudden and Olivier Avaro, CEO of Blacknut discuss the future of mobile cloud gaming. To enhance application innovation the evolution of network developer interfaces through exposed and easy-to-use network functions are vital. Cloud gaming is a perfect case to demonstrate the potential of open network APIs, but is also relevant for other areas like productivity, communication, collaboration, and enhanced video. The APIs should be the same across different operators so they are simple to use for the developers and can be used at scale and not in limited geographies. They also need to be simple in terms of business model, and predictable from a costing perspective. This is where companies like Vonage (part of Ericsson) can truly support the ecosystem.

Related links:

Operators are opening up 5G networks to application developers to drive innovation

A new age of innovation: 5G and APIs

In this session Ericsson’s CTO Erik Ekudden and Vinod Lala, Chief Strategy Officer at Vonage, discuss the expanding Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) market and their joint journey in this globally. New use cases offer business opportunities that will enhance consumer and enterprise experiences through innovative services. This means good news for operators to be able to monetize already invested network capabilities through service exposure (API´s) and for developers to expand their toolkit for innovation with more scale and reach.

Related links:

Ericsson completes acquisition of Vonage

Vonage Communications APIs

5G for Sustainable Transportation

In this session, Erik Ekudden is joined by Christian Levin, President and CEO at Scania Group where they discuss sustainable transportation and their joint commitment on combating climate change with new technology. The criticality of connectivity for Scania’s industry, electrification and digitalization are also explored. The need for collaboration across transport, energy and telecommunications has never been greater.

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Ericsson and Scania