TLDRs:
- Samsung and SoftBank sign MoU to jointly advance AI-RAN and 6G network technologies.
- Collaboration targets 7 GHz 6G trials and AI-driven optimization for telecom networks.
- SoftBank’s Large Telecom Model will integrate with Samsung’s base station tech for AI-RAN.
- Partnership aims to accelerate next-gen network efficiency and prepare for commercial 6G deployment.
SoftBank and Samsung announced in October 2025 that they have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaboratively advance research in AI-enabled radio access networks (AI-RAN).
The agreement, published Friday, outlines joint development in four key areas: 6G, AI for RAN, AI and RAN integration, and SoftBank’s Large Telecom Model, a generative AI foundation model tailored for telecommunications.
The partnership underscores both companies’ ambitions to lead the next wave of network innovation, leveraging AI to enhance efficiency and performance across modern telecom infrastructure.
Field Trials on 7 GHz Band Planned
As part of the collaboration, SoftBank and Samsung will conduct field trials targeting the 7 GHz spectrum, a candidate band for future 6G networks.
By combining Samsung’s cutting-edge base station implementation technologies with SoftBank’s deep network deployment expertise, the trials aim to identify practical applications of AI-RAN for real-world deployments.
The 7 GHz band remains a focal point in global spectrum discussions, with international regulatory bodies like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) yet to standardize rules for its use. This makes early experimentation vital for operators aiming to secure leadership in 6G technology.
AI-RAN Orchestrator and Large Telecom Model
A major component of the initiative involves defining an AI-RAN orchestrator capable of integrating AI workloads with radio access network operations on shared infrastructure.
By leveraging SoftBank’s Large Telecom Model, the collaboration seeks to optimize network performance using LLM-based AI solutions, enabling secure and efficient data interoperability.
This approach positions AI not just as an analytical tool but as an operational cornerstone, potentially transforming how telecom operators monitor and optimize RAN efficiency. LLM vendors and specialized AI infrastructure providers may also find opportunities to support operators piloting AI-driven network optimization.
Implications for Next-Generation Networks
SoftBank and Samsung’s joint effort is expected to accelerate the commercial deployment of next-generation 6G infrastructure while providing a testbed for AI-powered network management. With global spectrum allocations still evolving, these field trials will help define early best practices and operational frameworks for telecom operators worldwide.
Experts note that the collaboration could pave the way for specialized AI agents and LLM operations (LLMOps) within RAN environments, potentially extending beyond SoftBank and Samsung to other operators exploring AI-based network optimization.
By combining telecom expertise with generative AI technology, the partnership highlights a broader trend: telecommunications and AI are increasingly intertwined, with artificial intelligence becoming a core enabler for next-generation network efficiency and innovation.
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