Intel and Ericsson Unveil AI-Native 6G Collaboration at MWC Barcelona
Intel and Ericsson unveiled an AI-native 6G collaboration at MWC Barcelona 2026 to advance AI-powered RAN, packet core, platform security and network functions. They will align with global standards to create energy-efficient computing architectures using future Ericsson silicon with Intel’s latest process nodes and demo cloud RAN prototypes.
1. Partnership Overview
Intel and Ericsson announced a multi-year collaboration at MWC Barcelona 2026 to accelerate development of AI-native 6G network technologies. The partnership builds on their longstanding relationship and aims to move innovations from research labs to commercial deployment.
2. Technical Focus Areas
Joint efforts will target AI-powered radio access networks (RAN), packet core use cases, platform security and network functions, focusing on high-performance, energy-efficient computing architectures designed to support AI-driven applications.
3. Standards Alignment and Demonstrations
Both companies will work with global standards bodies and industry organizations to ensure deployable 6G infrastructure. They plan to showcase cloud RAN, 5G core and open network infrastructure prototypes in their exhibition spaces and partner venues at MWC 2026.
4. Future Silicon Roadmap
The initiative will leverage future Ericsson silicon built on Intel’s most advanced process nodes under multi-year research plans. Demonstrations will highlight open, power-efficient and secure AI inference capabilities to meet next-generation network operator requirements.