Telecommunications operator O2 and equipment maker Nokia have successfully concluded trials of an AI-powered radio access network feature across the UK for the first time, showing measurable gains in both network speed and operational efficiency.

Testing occurred at O2's Giga Site facility in London Paddington, a major transport interchange, with the system operating in a live environment serving real customers throughout the trial period.

The initiative forms part of O2's broader £700 million Mobile Transformation Plan, designed to strengthen network dependability, expand capacity and enhance overall service quality.

Nokia's system employs machine learning to track incoming network traffic patterns and dynamically redistribute available bandwidth according to real-time requirements. The approach enables the network infrastructure to adapt swiftly to fluctuating usage patterns, particularly during periods of high demand.

Trial outcomes revealed a 20% increase in spectral efficiency, according to the operator. The deployment also delivered faster data transmission speeds when networks experienced peak loads, while maintaining consistent reliability standards.

O2's Chief Technology Officer, Jeanie York, remarked: "Mobile data demand continues to grow, so we need smarter ways to make the most of the spectrum and infrastructure we already have. This live trial with Nokia showed how AI can improve network efficiency and help us respond more effectively to changing customer demand. By making better use of existing network resources, we can deliver a better experience for customers while supporting future traffic growth."

Emma Falck, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, stated: "This milestone demonstrates how AI is moving from experimentation to delivering measurable benefits in live mobile networks. By embedding intelligence directly into the RAN, operators can make better use of existing spectrum resources, improve network performance and create a stronger foundation for future AI-driven services. Our collaboration with O2 shows the significant potential of AI-native networks to enhance customer experiences while improving operational efficiency."