As we look ahead to the next chapter of network development, in collaboration with AT&T, I want to take a moment to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and where we’re headed.
The transformation we’re going through is more than just upgrading technology. It’s a shift in how we think about performance, possibility, and purpose—and it’s setting new standards for what’s possible in our industry.
The main challenges
The telecommunications industry is undergoing a period of rapid transformation driven by an unprecedented surge in data consumption and the widespread adoption of advanced technologies such as 5G. As mobile data traffic continues to grow exponentially—more than doubling in North America between 2019 and 2024—communications service providers face mounting pressure to upgrade their network infrastructure to meet customer expectations for faster speeds, lower latency, and seamless connectivity.
At the same time, these upgrades must be achieved while managing escalating operational costs and addressing sustainability concerns. Energy consumption, particularly within radio access networks (RAN) and data centers, accounts for a significant portion of operating expenses, making energy efficiency a critical priority.
Navigating this complex landscape requires innovative technology solutions and strategic collaboration that can deliver both high performance and environmental responsibility, setting the stage for the next generation of connectivity.
A strategic collaboration that delivers
When we signed a USD 14 billion, five-year collaboration with AT&T in 2023, we knew we were stepping into something big. Since then, what we’ve achieved together has been truly remarkable.
Through this strong collaboration, we started modernizing AT&T’s network infrastructure and operations to meet soaring data demands, while enjoying significant energy efficiency benefits. Thanks to these efforts, from January to December 2024, AT&T has seen a 96 percent increase in 5G traffic volume while improving the energy efficiency of data transmission by 10 percent per gigabyte.
These aren’t just numbers—they show how our work drives meaningful progress, building a network that’s ready for what’s next: more agile, efficient, and responsive to customers and communities.
Modernization that moves the needle
One of the things I’m most proud of is how we’ve approached modernization. Not only have we swapped out older equipment, but we’ve reimagined how the network operates.
A cornerstone strategy is the consolidation of radios using massive multiple input multiple output (MIMO) technology. Upgrading our radio platforms in such a way to be more efficient and adaptable allows AT&T to handle more traffic while simplifying installation and maintenance, reducing tower space requirements, and lowering operational costs.
This way, we can now create a healthy balance between performance and energy efficiency. And the results are already showing at those sites that made the switch, improving their power efficiency by up to 20 percent.
I believe that’s a big step forward—not just in technology but in how we deliver value, ultimately helping AT&T reduce operating costs, improve reliability, and accelerate time to market.
Innovation that drives network operations
I’m excited to see how innovation is empowering our customers to transform network management—delivering practical tools that drive real, meaningful improvements in how networks are operated and optimized.
One game changer is the Ericsson Site Digital Twin. By using drone technology to create precise virtual replicas of network sites, we can prevent unnecessary site visits and equipment rework. This solution alone avoids an estimated 2,900 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, eliminating thousands of truck rolls and helping accelerate project timelines.
Supply chains that are streamlined and sustainable
Technology is just one part of the story—how we get that technology deployed in a smart and sustainable way is equally important. One such way is bundling equipment on dedicated pallets and shipping directly to construction vendors’ warehouses, resulting in faster and smoother installations.
We’ve also relocated repair operations from Malaysia to North America, which has dramatically improved repair turnaround times. This move has been estimated to reduce transportation emissions by nearly 20,000 metric tons annually, equivalent to taking thousands of passenger vehicles off the road for an entire year. It’s a great example of how operational efficiency and environmental sustainability go hand in hand.
Together, these initiatives show how combining the right technology with smart operational strategies allows us to move faster, reduce emissions, and deliver better outcomes for our customers.
Our culture, the catalyst
Behind every innovation and achievement are a group of highly professional individuals driving it forward. If you’ve been part of this journey, you know culture is everything. And I know all the transformations and milestones I talked about couldn’t have been achieved without the dedicated collaboration between Ericsson’s and AT&T’s teams, both of which are always available, take ownership, and are committed to doing things right.
I’m proud that we value transparency, celebrate wins, and hold each other accountable. It’s a thriving environment where people feel empowered to speak up, take the initiative, and push themselves and others for the better.
This culture didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of a deep trust between leadership and team members, shared values, and believing that how we work matters just as much as what we deliver.
Looking ahead
We’re not done. In fact, we’re just getting started.
The next phase of our journey includes expanding Cloud RAN, scaling artificial intelligence offerings for optimization, and exploring new frontiers such as advanced sensing and 6G. With Ericsson and AT&T holding leadership positions in the Next G Alliance Sustainable Development Working Group, we’re driving industry-wide efforts to advance future wireless technologies, including 6G, through a balanced focus on environmental sustainability, societal development, and economic growth.
As we move forward, my team and I keep asking how we can help our customers succeed, make Ericsson stronger, and lead with purpose. I encourage everyone to keep building, challenging, and showing the world what’s possible when we collaborate with intention and deliver with excellence.
Read the full case study:
AT&T and Ericsson
