Nvidia and SoftBank Unveil First-Ever AI and 5G Telecom Network

Nvidia and SoftBank Corp have jointly announced the launch of the world’s first AI and 5G-integrated telecom network. This pioneering network, known as 5G AI-RAN, can simultaneously manage AI and 5G operations, transforming conventional base stations into AI-driven computing hubs. The project highlights a significant milestone in telecom advancements, initiated through the AI-RAN Alliance founded at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

Integration of AI and 5G Capabilities

The AI-RAN network enables concurrent AI and 5G workloads, enhancing functionalities such as autonomous vehicle support and robotics control. A successful real-world trial in Kanagawa, Japan, demonstrated that SoftBank’s base stations equipped with Nvidia’s technology maintained full 5G capabilities while running AI tasks, optimizing network efficiency. By leveraging spare network capacity for AI processing, operators could see substantial returns—up to 219% per server—with projections of earning $5 for every $1 invested.

Deployment of Nvidia’s Blackwell Chips

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang confirmed that SoftBank is the first to integrate Nvidia’s Grace Blackwell chips into its infrastructure. These next-gen chips will be utilized in Japan’s upcoming AI supercomputer, aimed at developing generative AI models and supporting various AI applications. The move marks a key strategic shift in SoftBank’s AI ambitions and complements Nvidia’s efforts to expand in Asia. Recently, Nvidia opened an AI R&D center in Taiwan and is preparing a significant investment announcement in Thailand.

Future AI Marketplace and Applications

SoftBank plans to create an AI marketplace using Nvidia’s AI Enterprise software. This marketplace will focus on secure and localized AI computing to address Japan’s increasing needs, particularly in healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing sectors. Though a precise launch timeline hasn’t been disclosed, the partnership signifies broader opportunities for AI training and edge inference in the region.

Summery of the News