HPE and Samsung join hands to boost 5G adoption

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and Samsung Electronics (Samsung) have entered into collaboration to jointly provide solutions that help communications service providers (CSPs) accelerate 5G deployment. Offerings will include solutions for virtual radio access networks (vRAN) and for 5G core networks, enabling CSPs to capitalize on the demand for data-intensive, low-latency services.

Fully leveraging the potential of 5G requires a transformation of telecommunications networks towards an open-standards-based architecture, including the replacement of the current proprietary edge appliances with virtual radio access networks (vRAN) running on standard-IT systems. With this collaboration, HPE and Samsung will combine their respective strengths in edge-to-core infrastructure, data management and radio networks to provide end-to-end solutions that enable a fast and smooth 5G transition.

Phil Davis, President – Hybrid IT, Chief Sales Officer, HPE, says, “5G enables a new world of interconnectivity and will transform every sector in society, from automotive to healthcare. HPE is proud to join forces with Samsung to support communications service providers as they evolve their infrastructures to effectively deliver new 5G services to consumers and businesses.”

As part of the collaboration agreement, a 5G vRAN solution will be made commercially available through Samsung, leveraging Samsung’s vRAN software solutions and system integration services and the new HPE Edgeline EL8000 Converged Edge System which delivers high performance and low latency in a compact and ruggedized form factor, equipped with edge-optimized serviceability and remote systems management. This vRAN solution will enable CSPs to decouple network functions from the edge infrastructure to deliver flexible, agile and cost-effective offerings for customers.

HPE and Samsung will also deliver joint 5G core solutions. The initial offering will consist of Samsung Packet Core software products and selected HPE 5G core network function (NF) software products utilizing the HPE Shared Data Environment (SDE) and service-based architecture (SbA), to streamline the transition to 5G and address periods of overlap of 5G with 4G and 3G.

Paul Kyungwhoon Cheun, Executive Vice-President & Head of Networks Business, Samsung Electronics, says, “Through close collaboration with HPE and leveraging Samsung’s extensive knowledge, experience, and advanced technologies like core and RAN, both companies will work towards the universal goal of enabling the vision of creating a robust 5G ecosystem. Offering the most optimized 5G products to provide the highest quality in service to operators, Samsung will continue to solidify its stance as an industry leader, ultimately enhancing user experience and boosting competitiveness.”

Pricing and availability

HPE’s and Samsung’s joint vRAN and 5G core solutions will be available in the second half of 2019. Pricing will depend on the scope and size of the project.