In a significant development in the telecommunications sector, Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has announced the extension of its research and development (R&D) partnership with King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) for two more years. This decision follows the fruitful outcomes of their initial three-year collaboration, reinforcing their commitment to advancing cutting-edge technologies in telecommunications, specifically focusing on 5G and 6G.

The extended partnership will delve deeper into next-generation telecommunication technologies, emphasizing on-chip reflective intelligent surfaces and free-space optical communications. These innovations align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to transform the Kingdom into a hub of technological excellence.

Since the inception of this collaboration, Ericsson and KAUST have produced numerous scientific publications and findings, primarily focusing on machine learning for frequency-selective wireless channels, terahertz (THz) communications, and advanced intelligent surfaces. The success of these projects has paved the way for further exploration in these high-potential areas.

Pierre Magistretti, Vice President of Research at KAUST, expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership: “The extension of our partnership with Ericsson reflects our shared vision for pioneering the telecommunications landscape of tomorrow. Our efforts have significantly enhanced our research capabilities and contributed to the development of a skilled talent pool, perfectly aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.”

Mashhour Al-Sudairy, Head of Local Content at Ericsson in Saudi Arabia, highlighted the initial achievements: “The initial phase of our partnership yielded significant advancements in telecommunication technologies, crucial in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the 5G and emerging 6G space.”

The collaboration also supports the exchange of knowledge and expertise between students and researchers from KAUST and Ericsson Research in Sweden, enhancing both educational and professional experiences.

As this partnership enters its next phase, both Ericsson and KAUST are committed to driving further innovation and development in the Kingdom’s ICT sector, aiming to make significant impacts on global telecommunications.

The extension of this R&D partnership between Ericsson and KAUST is a testament to the success of their collaborative efforts. Focusing on advanced technologies like on-chip reflective intelligent surfaces and free-space optical communications is not only timely but essential for leveraging the full potential of 5G and preparing the groundwork for 6G.

  5G technology, 6G technology, Ericsson, KAUST, telecommunications research, Vision 2030