Ericsson, KDDI Succeed in AI Uplink Optimization Field Trial

Key Takeaways

• 9.6% 4G and 3.1% 5G uplink throughput gains.
• 27% 5G SINR improvement achieved.
• Trial covered 1,500 5G and 1,300 4G cells.
• UIO rApp reached Level 3.86 autonomy, nearing Level 4.
• Open EIAP platform supports third‑party rApps under R1 standard.

Pulse Analysis

AI‑driven uplink optimization is emerging as a high‑value use case for mobile operators seeking to squeeze more capacity from existing spectrum. Ericsson’s Uplink Interference Optimizer (UIO) rApp, running on the Ericsson Intelligent Automation platform, proved its mettle in a live Japanese network, where it managed interference across a mixed 4G/5G cluster of over 2,800 cells. The trial’s 9.6% 4G and 3.1% 5G throughput lifts, together with a 27% rise in 5G SINR, translate into noticeably smoother video calls and lower latency for end users, especially in dense urban environments.

Beyond raw performance, the field test marks a critical step toward autonomous networks. By achieving Level 3.86 on the TM Forum’s ANLET maturity scale, the UIO rApp demonstrates that AI can make near‑real‑time decisions without human intervention, edging operators closer to Level 4 autonomy where the network self‑optimizes end‑to‑end. The open nature of the EIAP platform, validated by the successful integration of a third‑party FYRA Suite rApp, underscores Ericsson’s commitment to O‑RAN principles and encourages a broader ecosystem of innovators to build on a common, standards‑based foundation.

For the market, the trial signals that AI‑enabled radio optimization is moving from pilot to production. Ericsson’s decision to make the Uplink Interference Optimizer generally available positions it as a ready‑to‑deploy tool for carriers worldwide, while Japan’s focus on physical AI and semiconductor strategy adds regional momentum. Operators that adopt the solution can expect not only immediate capacity gains but also a scalable pathway to fully autonomous, energy‑efficient networks, strengthening their competitive edge in the next wave of 5G services and beyond.