Nokia, Nvidia Launch AI-Native RAN Platform
Nokia has introduced the industry’s first commercial AI-native Radio Access Network (AI-RAN) platform in collaboration with Nvidia, marking a major milestone in the evolution of mobile networks. Built on Nokia’s AI-native anyRAN software and Nvidia’s Aerial AI-RAN platform, the new solution enables telecom operators to run AI workloads and radio network functions on a shared computing infrastructure. Consequently, operators can improve network performance while preparing for AI-native 6G services.
The platform is designed to help communication service providers maximize existing spectrum resources instead of relying on costly hardware upgrades. Moreover, Nokia expects the platform to deliver more than 100% spectral efficiency gains by 2028, effectively doubling network capacity through AI-driven optimization. Early demonstrations have already achieved more than 20% efficiency improvements using AI-based radio innovations.
AI-Powered Architecture Targets Smarter Networks
Nokia’s AI-native RAN platform combines software-defined networking with Nvidia’s accelerated computing technology to support AI-for-RAN, AI-on-RAN, and AI-and-RAN workloads. Therefore, operators can deploy radio functions and enterprise AI applications on the same GPU-powered infrastructure, improving resource utilization and reducing operational costs.
The company will offer the platform through multiple deployment options, including GPU-powered AirScale upgrades for existing networks, standalone AI-RAN nodes, and cloud-native commercial off-the-shelf server configurations. In addition, the platform remains compatible with Nokia radios and Open RAN-compliant equipment, allowing operators to modernize networks without replacing their existing infrastructure.
Partnership Accelerates the Path to AI-Native 6G
The launch builds on Nokia’s strategic partnership with Nvidia, announced in late 2025, to develop AI-powered telecommunications infrastructure for 5G-Advanced and future 6G networks. Since then, the companies have expanded collaborations with operators including T-Mobile, SoftBank, Indosat, BT, Elisa, NTT DOCOMO, and Vodafone through AI-RAN trials and commercial deployments. Consequently, Nokia’s latest platform transforms those research efforts into a commercially available product.
Nvidia’s Aerial AI-RAN platform supplies the GPU acceleration needed to process both radio network functions and AI applications simultaneously. Furthermore, the shared architecture enables telecom providers to generate new revenue opportunities by supporting edge AI services alongside traditional mobile connectivity.
Telecom Industry Moves Toward AI-Driven Networks
The commercial launch reflects a broader industry transition toward software-defined, AI-native telecommunications infrastructure. Rather than separating networking and AI computing, operators are increasingly integrating both into unified platforms that improve efficiency and simplify network management. Therefore, AI-RAN is expected to become a foundational technology for future 6G deployments.
For Nokia, the announcement strengthens its position as an AI infrastructure provider beyond traditional telecommunications equipment. As demand for intelligent network services continues to grow, the company aims to help operators increase capacity, lower operating costs, and deliver AI-powered services using existing network assets.
