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NorthStar by Telia and Ericsson

Accelerating 5G innovation in Sweden

NorthStar is a joint innovation program by Telia and Ericsson that gives Swedish organizations early access to cutting-edge 5G capabilities in real-world environments. The program enables partners to test, develop, and validate new solutions at scale, accelerating the path from research to commercialization.

Case

Launched by Telia and Ericsson in 2023, NorthStar is a unique innovation program aiming to drive service innovation based on 5G and other cutting-edge technologies. The program provides:

  • Exclusive access to Telia’s purpose-built 5G network, operating alongside the public network, combined with Ericsson’s cutting-edge 5G enabler technologies.
  • Nationwide reach for real-world testing in cities, mines, ports, highways, hospitals, agriculture, industries and more, together with leading partners across Sweden.
  • An innovation ecosystem connecting industry, academia, and the public sector to co-create future solutions.
  • Faster commercialization, helping Swedish innovations reach global markets sooner.

NorthStar empowers R&D and innovation teams to explore advanced features like network slicing, positioning, and edge computing in secure, reliable environments. Beyond technology, NorthStar fosters collaboration, sustainability, and competitiveness, ensuring Sweden remains a global leader in telecom-driven innovation.

Connected Vehicles over the air update photograph

Key objectives and supporting industries

Energy and Mining

Supporting automation and remote operations in harsh environments.

Fleet management monitoring tracking goods
Predictable 5G for Autonomous Transport
Testing 5G Standalone for autonomous transport in Sweden with Telia and Scania
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Reports and blogs

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How the NorthStar 5G network inspires innovation

Early access to new 5G network functionality with NorthStar is allowing leading enterprises in Sweden to develop and test new differentiated connectivity solutions. AstaZero is seizing this opportunity to pioneer autonomous vehicle solutions and active safety systems.

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AstaZero

Turning ambition into reality: How NorthStar adds another gear for 5G

In a world grappling with climate change, the need for economically viable solutions to reduce environmental impact has never been more urgent. But, as enterprises are mobilizing to implement solutions, the green transition of whole industries hinges on a crucial factor - guaranteed, uninterrupted connectivity. Providing the connectivity platform to generate industry-wide change and societal value is the job of NorthStar.

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Find the latest press releases

Telia - Volvo 5G

Telia and Ericsson launch 5G Innovation Program for Enterprises

Telia and Ericsson are launching NorthStar – a 5G innovation program for industrial enterprises, for the development and implementation of new digital solutions.

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Magna North Star

Magna joins NorthStar to enhance vehicle safety with 5G

Magna, a leading supplier in the automotive space, joins Telia and Ericsson's NorthStar Program to leverage 5G for the development of active safety features.

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Swedish Armed Forces in training

Ericsson 5G to support Swedish defense tests

Ericsson and Telia Sweden are partnering with the Swedish Armed Forces to maximize 5G capabilities for national defense and NATO commitments.

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