Ericsson and King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have announced a three-year research and development (R&D) partnership focused on three research projects advancing telecommunication networks with cutting edge technologies.
The partnership aims to understand the key features and requirements of next-generation communication systems.
With current optimisation algorithms often entailing considerable computational complexity and processing overhead, Ericsson and KAUST will utilise machine learning (ML) for frequency-selective wireless channels to use deep learning to solve channel estimation and resource allocation problems for massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems. Moreover, as future communication networks will emphasise high data rates, low latency, and high security, Ericsson and KAUST will look into transparent and flexible intelligent surfaces for 5G and beyond enhanced communication.
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The partnership will also focus on 6G capabilities moving to higher frequencies such as Terahertz (THz) for higher data rates. In particular, Ericsson and KAUST researchers will study backup solutions for THz communications to guarantee uninterrupted high-rate backhaul in 6G dense networks.
Professor Bradley, Vice President for Research at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology, said: “We are excited to collaborate with Ericsson to develop novel architectures for future communication networks. As the demand for enhanced communications continues to expand globally, innovative technologies are increasingly needed to solve the major challenges of 5G and future 6G networks. KAUST faculty and facilities offer an empowering environment for this cutting-edge research partnership, and we look forward to working closely with colleagues from Ericsson to address the key challenges.”
KAUST and Ericsson believe that the research output will vastly contribute to developing next-generation 5G and 6G networks. The results of this partnership will also contribute to the ICT research ecosystem and will be published in top-tier journals. Additionally, the exchange of students and researchers between KAUST and Ericsson Research, Sweden, will enhance knowledge, education, and training.
Magnus Frodigh, Vice President & Head of Ericsson Research at Ericsson, said, “We are delighted to partner with KAUST as we believe an ecosystem of strong collaborative partnerships is important in enhancing communications networks. Our partnership with KAUST is part of our aspiration to encourage regional innovation by funding local research projects. By working together on fundamental research areas, our partnership with KAUST will help develop and grow the ICT sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and also help us meet the demands and opportunities of the 6G era.”
