Swisscom and Ericsson are getting set for the new mobile generation with their ‘5G for Switzerland’ program, along with academic partner, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). Applications are being devised and tested with industrial partners in various sectors, such as smart transportation and virtual reality. The research results will support the definition of international standards for 5G, with completion planned for 2019.

 

Together with EPFL, and as part of the ‘5G for Switzerland’ program, Swisscom and Ericsson will work with industry partners to understand how 5G can innovate their business and develop industrial applications to implement and trial. In the light of 5G technology, challenges such as smart transportation, autonomous driving, automated traffic control systems, smart grid, and, to a massive extent, IoT (Internet of Things) and virtual reality take on a whole new meaning. The results will be incorporated into the definition of international standards for 5G, with completion planned for 2019.

 

“5G is still in the early stages of development. For Swisscom it is essential to be in on the planning from the start, preparing for future applications,” said Heinz Herren, CTO and CIO Swisscom.

 

“We are delighted to partner with Swisscom and EPFL to extend our 5G for Europe program to Switzerland where we can address the innovation potential that 5G communications technology will bring by working together with local industries,” said Martin Buerki, Ericsson Country Manager, Switzerland.

 

“Swisscom’s upcoming 5G technology will accelerate the development of innovative solutions in numerous promising fields such as smart grids, intelligent mobility and digital health. As dozens of our labs are working on the increased connectivity of people as well as of objects and infrastructures, EPFL is eager to collaborate with Swisscom by promoting the scientific skills of its relevant labs,” said Dr. Michaël Thémans, Deputy Vice-President for Innovation and Technology Transfer at EPFL.