Singtel has announced a strategic partnership with Ericsson to accelerate the development of 5G Advanced technology in Singapore. The collaboration aims to transform 5G into a programmable, AI-powered platform that will support enterprise innovation and enhance the country’s digital infrastructure for the coming decade.
The agreement is designed to help Singapore maintain its global leadership in mobile connectivity by leveraging advanced network capabilities. As industries adopt artificial intelligence, immersive technologies, and large-scale Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, there is a growing need for networks that provide differentiated services rather than standard connectivity.
Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer of Singtel Singapore, stated: “We see 5G Advanced not as a network upgrade, but as a foundational platform for Singapore’s AI-powered future. By embedding intelligence, programmability and service differentiation into our network, we are enabling enterprises to innovate with confidence and compete globally. We will prioritise lighthouse programmes that demonstrate measurable ecosystem traction and impact. This collaboration with Ericsson reinforces our commitment to pioneering innovation, empowering enterprises, and shaping the next chapter of connectivity in an increasingly AI-driven world.”
Daniel Ode, Ericsson’s Head of Singapore, Philippines, and Brunei and Global Customer Unit Singtel said: “As AI adoption accelerates amongst enterprises and public sector agencies, the demand for end-to-end 5G Advanced network capabilities and programmable network APIs will continue to grow. We are pleased to partner with Singtel to drive further innovation across network slicing and differentiated connectivity, as well as to efficiently scale and capture new growth opportunities together.”
The initiative includes accelerating commercial deployment of end-to-end network slicing supported by enforceable service level agreements (SLAs). This approach allows businesses access to premium connectivity tailored for artificial intelligence workloads as well as AR/VR/XR applications, smart mobility services and extensive IoT ecosystems.
Singtel plans a phased roadmap through 2026, 2028 and 2030 aimed at unlocking scalable revenue streams while supporting business innovation on modern infrastructure.
Additionally, both companies intend to advance automation using artificial intelligence across core operations. They aim for Level 4 network autonomy—according to TM Forum standards—which would allow closed-loop optimisation for improved reliability while enhancing cybersecurity measures. These efforts are expected to improve spectrum efficiency while reducing operational complexity and costs.
The partnership also seeks to launch pilot projects focused on real-world impact from emerging technologies such as edge-enabled AR/VR/XR applications requiring guaranteed performance levels or ultra-low-power device ecosystems relevant in sectors like logistics or automotive.
Looking ahead toward next-generation networks beyond current standards, Singtel and Ericsson plan research into integrated sensing alongside communication services; uplink enhancements; architectural improvements for greater robustness; resilience; and better use of radio spectrum resources.
For more information about these advancements visit Singtel 5G+.
