TLDR
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AT&T stock rises 2.25% after Ericsson-backed 5G drone tracking test succeeds
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AT&T and Ericsson track multiple drones using existing 5G network infrastructure
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Network sensing captures drone location, speed, elevation, and flight direction
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Existing cellular towers could support wider drone awareness and venue security
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Further tests will guide integrated sensing development toward commercial 6G use
AT&T Inc. (T) shares rose 2.25% to $21.23 after rebounding strongly from the opening bell. The stock held near its session high throughout afternoon trading. The gain followed a drone detection demonstration with Ericsson using AT&T’s commercial 5G network.
AT&T and Ericsson Test Drone Detection
AT&T and Ericsson tested network-based drone sensing near AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The companies used authorized airspace during a major international sporting event. Their system detected several drones and tracked their movements across the wider coverage area.
Ericsson deployed Massive MIMO radios across several existing cellular sites around the venue. Meanwhile, AT&T provided network expertise and supported the multi-site sensing setup. The system reused communication signals to monitor activity without separate standalone sensing equipment.
The test tracked drones flying between 300 and 400 feet above the ground. It measured each drone’s location, speed, elevation, and direction in real time. Multiple synchronized network points also improved accuracy, reliability, and tracking performance during each flight.
5G Network Adds Integrated Sensing
The demonstration showed how current 5G infrastructure can support integrated sensing and communication. This approach combines wireless connectivity with environmental monitoring across the same network. Therefore, operators could add security functions without building a separate detection network.
AT&T and Ericsson used signal processing and sensing algorithms to analyze reflected radio signals. The platform then converted those signals into real-time movement and position data. This process allowed the network to maintain continuous tracking throughout each drone’s flight.
The companies said existing towers could provide broad sensing coverage at lower deployment costs. Network operators could also expand the service through software and advanced radio upgrades. However, wider use will require further testing, standards work, and regulatory coordination.
Partnership Builds Path Toward 6G
AT&T and Ericsson view integrated sensing as an early step toward future 6G services. The technology could support major venues, public spaces, and critical infrastructure. It may also strengthen low-altitude monitoring as commercial drone activity expands.
Event teams could use network sensing to monitor vehicles and coordinate temporary infrastructure. Public agencies could also track drone movement across cities and regional transport corridors. Meanwhile, venue operators could combine environmental awareness with existing wireless connectivity.
The partners plan more demonstrations as 5G and 6G standards continue developing. Their roadmap includes large event settings, including Los Angeles sporting events planned for 2028. The Arlington test adds another practical use case beyond AT&T’s traditional mobile services.
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