The joint solution embeds AI-powered 5G management directly into Windows 11, enabling enterprises to automate secure connectivity, enforce policies at scale and simplify deployment of cellular-connected laptops across global workforces.
Ericsson and Microsoft have announced a joint development that brings advanced 5G capabilities natively into Windows 11, marking a significant step in enterprise mobility. The integration is designed to provide businesses with secure, policy-driven laptop connectivity while streamlining how IT departments manage and scale mobile PC deployments.
The solution combines Microsoft Intune device management with Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect—an AI- and cloud-analytics-powered platform that continuously monitors network performance and dynamically optimises connectivity for security and reliability. By embedding AI-driven 5G management within the operating system, enterprises can automate device connections, enable seamless switching between communications service providers (CSPs), and enforce internal IT policies.
Automating secure enterprise connectivity
Through Microsoft Intune and Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect, IT teams can automatically apply secure connectivity profiles and enterprise rules across all 5G-enabled devices. This approach reduces manual configuration, ensures compliance, and delivers consistent user experiences regardless of location or network provider.
The companies say the integration addresses long-standing barriers to adopting cellular-connected laptops, including complexity in provisioning and inconsistent connectivity performance. By reducing IT overhead and enhancing operational visibility, the platform aims to provide enterprises with a structured pathway to deploy AI-ready, cloud-integrated PCs.
The announcement builds on ongoing collaboration between the two firms to expand managed 5G connectivity in enterprise environments. Following multi-market pilot programmes, Microsoft and Ericsson are rolling out bundled enterprise offerings that initially include Surface Copilot+ PCs, Microsoft 365, Intune and Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect.
Demonstration at MWC Barcelona 2026
The joint solution will be showcased at MWC Barcelona 2026, where attendees will receive previews of upcoming features. Demonstrations will highlight remote prioritisation of 5G network policies, automatic eSIM switching and a local AI agent operating on a Surface 5G laptop to make real-time, context-aware connectivity decisions.
Erik Ekudden, CTO, Ericsson, says: “AI-powered 5G laptops are redefining how and where work gets done. Together with Microsoft and leading CSP partners, we’re enabling organizations to seamlessly automate the deployment and operations of secure, always-connected devices regardless of location - creating a smarter, more responsive workplace for the AI era. This joint solution has the potential to transform enterprise IT and employee ways of working around the world.”
Ian LeGrow, Corporate Vice President, Core OS, Microsoft, says: “Windows 11 is the optimal enterprise platform for deploying and managing 5G-connected PCs at scale. With the new 5G management capabilities of Windows 11, now being piloted first with Surface Copilot+ PCs and Ericsson Enterprise 5G Connect, Enterprise IT teams can use Microsoft Intune to seamlessly provision, manage, and secure both devices and 5G connectivity. Together, Windows, Intune, Surface, and Ericsson enable organizations to confidently deploy AI-ready PCs and keep employees securely connected and productive wherever work happens.”
The solution is currently available in select markets, including the United States with T-Mobile, Sweden with Telenor, Singapore with Singtel and Japan with SoftBank Corp., with additional rollouts planned across Europe in 2026.
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