Ericsson and T-Mobile have moved the AI-native Scheduler with Link Adaptation into large-scale commercial trials on live 5G Advanced network traffic, underscoring ongoing development in 5G Advanced and AI-native radio access network (RAN). The software uses a neural network running directly on Ericsson’s TCO-optimized hardware to predict rapidly changing radio conditions in real time. It is intended to improve spectral efficiency and increase downlink data rates, providing more consistent performance.
During trials with T-Mobile, the AI-native Scheduler with Link Adaptation feature achieved close to a 10 percent increase in spectral efficiency and up to a 15 percent boost in downlink throughput compared to legacy rule-based methods. According to the companies, these scaled live network results match earlier testing done across limited geographies, indicating the solution’s adaptability to diverse environments as the two companies jointly broaden the footprint further.
By enabling faster, automated decision-making in the RAN, Ericsson’s AI-native Scheduler with Link Adaptation software is designed to maintain performance even in high-demand environments with poor radio frequency conditions. The companies state that users may observe improved streaming, gaming responsiveness, and video call stability during peak usage.
Grant Castle, Senior Vice President of RAN Engineering & Emerging Technologies at T-Mobile, says: “Following our milestone as the first U.S. operator to deploy 5G Advanced nationwide in 2025, we’re continuing to push the boundaries of RAN innovation. Our work with Ericsson on AI-native Scheduler with Link Adaptation demonstrates how real-time, AI-driven optimization can enhance spectral efficiency and throughput while delivering a more consistent experience for customers at scale.”
Johan Hultell, Head of Product Line RAN Software, Business Area Networks, Ericsson, says: “AI is central to our vision for high-performing programmable networks. By embedding intelligence directly into RAN software, we can deliver real-time performance gains that enhance user experience while helping operators like T-Mobile maximize the value of their spectrum.”
The companies state that this work reflects the application of AI-native RAN capabilities. Ericsson and T-Mobile will continue to collaborate to identify new opportunities where AI may contribute to improvements in network performance and efficiency.