Match-making approach CSPs with start-ups, Ericsson Start-up 5G aims to facilitate collaboration with "consumer innovation partners" who have the solutions to "help accelerate the commercialisation and monetisation of 5G". There are more than 20 such start-ups signed up to the scheme and there is a target to double that number before the end of this year.
Ericsson's research has found that the 5G consumer market is a US$3.7 trillion business opportunity globally.
Jasmeet Singh Sethi, head of ConsumerLab, Ericsson Research, said: “We are delighted to have Three Ireland as the first operator in the world to join this exciting initiative. With over 20 global 5G start-ups as part of the program and an ambition to double this by end of 2021, the program offers service providers the ability to deliver exciting new 5G digital services for consumers by collaborating with ecosystem players. Three Ireland will be among the front runners globally to provide these compelling new services to the Irish market.”
In addition to accessing the start-ups Three Ireland will be able to tap into Ericsson’s ConsumerLab research and analytical data. The provider has previously partnered with Ericsson for R&D around new 5G consumer offerings such as augmented and virtual realities, digital education, e-sports and other immersive media experiences.
Elaine Carey (pictured), CCO of Three Ireland and UK, said: “At Three Ireland we are committed to providing our customers with a better connected life and we are building a 5G network that delivers the very best experience regardless of where you are in the country.”
She adds: “In supporting this, the collaboration and partnership with Ericsson in our 5G consumer offerings has been established, grown and developed over the last two years, and has now reached a new level as we join their Startup 5G program. Three Ireland will now be in a fantastic position to introduce exciting new partners and offerings to customers in the Irish market, demonstrating our commitment to 5G innovation, and our customers.”
