Ericsson has launched a research programme to focus on 5G innovation.

The 5G for Europe programme, which aims to tap into Europe’s R&D spending to strengthen Europe’s position in this key industry, will work on delivering research and industrial pilots using the next generation of mobile networks.

These will focus on areas such as transport and automotive, the Internet of Things, utilities, public safety, public infrastructure and retail.

In addition, innovation projects to enable smaller companies to collaborate with industry players will also be launched.

Academic research partners include King’s College London, as well as universities in Germany, Italy and Spain. There is also significant industry involvement from firms such as wiseSense, Weiss Robotics, MyOmega System Technology and Zucchetti Centro Sistemi in Italy.

Ulf Ewaldsson, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, Ericsson, says: "5G is the next step in the evolution of mobile communication and will be a fundamental enabler of the Networked Society.

"However, Ericsson needs to work together with industries to understand their specific network requirements in order to realise the full benefits of 5G technologies.

"By expanding our 5G programme to include major partners across Europe, we will gain valuable insights that will enable industries to digitalise effectively, to create new value and to strengthen the competitive position of European industry," he says.

Ericsson is one of many players aiming to establish itself as a 5G leader, as the technology is expected to be key in driving the Internet of Things. Companies that are involved in standards-setting can develop their solutions to these specific requirements and build IP in these areas.

The Swedish operator has formed partnerships with local industry players in other markets such as Turkcell, SK Telecom and Softbank.

In addition, the company is working on 5G standardisation in the EU, coordinating the METIS-II EU project to develop the overall 5G radio system design and roadmap recommendation for 5G standardisation.