Ericsson and Nex-Tech Wireless have entered into a four-year agreement to overhaul the regional carrier's network infrastructure in Kansas. The collaboration will modernise roughly 85% of Nex-Tech Wireless' radio access network and introduce a cloud-native 5G standalone core platform.
The Swedish vendor will deploy its Radio System technology suite, featuring the AI-capable RAN Processor 6655 alongside updated 4G and 5G software capabilities. The upgrades are designed to enable faster data speeds, reduced latency and more efficient spectrum utilisation throughout the network.
The deployment builds on Nex-Tech Wireless' existing dual-mode 5G Core infrastructure from Ericsson. The expanded core, running on Ericsson's Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution, will incorporate 5G Core and roaming functionality. Ericsson's Telco DataOps Platform will also be integrated to help the operator manage billing and revenue operations across its core network.
Beyond the immediate network improvements, the deal opens a commercial avenue for Nex-Tech Wireless to offer network hosting services to other mobile operators, enabling them to access portions of the upgraded infrastructure.
Nex-Tech Wireless is bringing the benefits of advanced 5G Standalone to rural Kansas communities. By partnering with Ericsson to modernize our RAN and expand our cloud-native 5G Core, we are strengthening our network performance today while creating a scalable, future-proof platform for new services and opportunities in the years ahead.
Jon Lightle, President and CEO of Nex-Tech Wireless
This agreement underscores Ericsson's commitment to regional carriers that are driving innovation in rural markets. We are helping Nex-Tech Wireless execute its rural telecom network modernisation strategy end-to-end, support subscriber growth, and unlock new revenue streams with hosting capabilities and differentiated 5G connectivity.
Per Wahlen, Ericsson Americas Senior Vice President and Head of Customer Unit US Hyperscalers & Regional Accounts
