By Mathieu Rubel
Publication Date: 2026-10-22 09:01:00
What if cell towers were no longer used solely to transmit data, but also to run artificial intelligence? Nokia and Nvidia are taking their partnership to the next level by integrating AI directly into the operation of mobile networks. The development could open up a new market for both companies, provided they can persuade operators to invest.
The Finnish telecom equipment maker and the US semiconductor giant have announced progress toward the commercial deployment of their AI-RAN technology. It involves using accelerated computing capabilities to improve radio signal processing while enabling artificial intelligence applications to run closer to users.
The initiative is beginning to take shape in the field. In the United States, T-Mobile conducted an initial AI-RAN call with Nokia and Nvidia on its commercial network in Bellevue, Washington. In Europe, BT plans to conduct trials in Birmingham in 2027, while Elisa is preparing an experimental deployment in Helsinki. Deutsche Telekom and Orange are also participating in technology validation efforts.
When telecom networks become AI infrastructure
The technology’s potential extends beyond simple mobile coverage. While networks previously transported data mainly to data centers for processing, AI-RAN makes it possible to perform some of the computing directly within operators’ infrastructure.
This proximity could notably reduce response times for AI applications. At Deutsche…
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