Qualcomm and Capgemini to launch end-to-end 5G private networks

Qualcomm and Capgemini are partnering up to launch off-the-shelf 5G-powered private networks for large enterprises as well as smart factories and IoT settings.

This collaboration will see Qualcomm provide the 5G technology and Capgemini step into the role of systems integrator as they build end-to-end networks that businesses can buy and set up without having to manage the infrastructure themselves.

These off-the-shelf systems will be designed to provide organisations with highly reliable interoperability in an ecosystem of connected devices, IoT equipment, and networking infrastructure.

Qualcomm will provide the core networking technology in the form of its flagship 5G RAN infrastructure platform, while Capgemini will liaise with clients to fine tune their configurations and support their digital transformation efforts.

“This collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies aims to help us provide a simplified yet powerful end-to-end private network solution for clients in all industries,” said Capgemini’s group leader of 5G and edge computing, Fotis Karonis.

“By utilising Qualcomm Technologies’ expertise in cellular connectivity with Capgemini’s industry leading business transformation services and systems integration capabilities, we envision that more and more companies will be able to benefit from cellular private networks to increase efficiency and speed of innovation.”

Private 5G networks are local area networks (LANs) that can deliver ultra-low latency and high bandwidth connections to support intensive applications, such as those driven by AI.

They serve as dedicated high-powered networks with interoperability for a multitude of devices and services, alongside the security benefits of a closed-off environment that’s inaccessible beyond the confines of the business.

These 5G-powered private networks will also support customers’ data-intensive workloads that can benefit from the high bandwidth and lower latency that this form of infrastructure brings.

Neither company has stated whether the private networks will be limited by geography, although Qualcomm Europe’s senior VP Enrico Salvatori has signalled ambitions to launch private networks across the world.

“We believe there are powerful benefits and some really exciting use cases already available in private networks today,” he added, “especially when you integrate 5G functionality, enhanced privacy and all the other features which arrive with 5G standalone.”