Ericsson and Vodafone have announced a five-year strategic partnership to modernise Vodafone’s European network infrastructure using AI, automation, and 5G Advanced capabilities. The collaboration aims to improve customer experience by creating intelligent, efficient, and resilient networks across multiple markets.
Under the agreement, Vodafone will deploy Ericsson’s programmable network solutions and AI-powered applications, including the Intelligent Automation Platform and rApps, to automate RAN optimisation, enhance energy efficiency, and streamline multi-vendor network management. Ericsson will also serve as the sole RAN vendor for Vodafone in the Netherlands, Portugal, and Ireland, while remaining a significant vendor in Romania, Egypt, and Germany.
The partnership supports the rollout of 5G Standalone networks and a variety of connectivity solutions designed for speed, reliability, and operational efficiency. By integrating AI and automation, the networks are expected to enable self-healing, proactive maintenance, and real-time management, ensuring consistent service for both consumer and business customers.
The phased rollout begins in Germany in the fourth quarter of 2025. Beyond automation, Vodafone will implement Ericsson’s Open RAN-compatible Massive MIMO radios, RAN Compute solutions, and 5G Advanced RAN software capabilities. These technologies will improve network operations, optimise energy use, and open new revenue opportunities through enhanced connectivity services.
Alberto Ripepi, Chief Network Officer at Vodafone Group, stated: “This strategic partnership with Ericsson marks a major step in our network evolution journey. By modernising our network with the latest-generation equipment and embracing high-performing 5G Advanced capabilities, we’re transforming our infrastructure for the best customer experience and high-network efficiency, utilising automation and AI agents to seamlessly meet network demands in real time.”
Ripepi also highlighted the partnership’s potential to enable network APIs through Vodafone’s joint venture, Aduna, fostering innovation in applications and services.
Patrick Johansson, Senior Vice President at Ericsson, added: “We are proud to expand our long-standing relationship with Vodafone through this transformative agreement. This partnership aligns with our vision for high-performing programmable networks, laying a robust foundation for Vodafone to deliver differentiated connectivity experiences.”
Through AI-driven automation and advanced network architectures, Vodafone and Ericsson aim to build scalable, adaptive, and innovative networks prepared for future technological advancements, supporting both enterprise and consumer demands across Europe.
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