Catenaa, Saturday, December 06, 2025- Orange and Ericsson have initiated a series of 5G trials in France aimed at improving spectral efficiency, network automation, and sustainability across mobile networks.
Orange is testing Ericsson’s FDD Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radios in high-traffic areas to optimise spectrum use and enhance capacity and user experience
The trials include multiple deployment configurations tailored to different traffic profiles.
The operators are also exploring energy-efficient software and 5G functionalities. Using service-aware, intent-driven automation and AI, networks can dynamically adjust resources to real-time demand, supporting greener and more efficient operations.
A separate two-year trial focuses on Cloud RAN and Open RAN architecture, with Orange recently completing its first successful call over Ericsson’s Cloud RAN platform.
Additionally, Orange is piloting the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) with AI-powered RAN automation applications to optimise network performance.
The partnership seeks to advance Orange’s autonomous networks initiative and deliver improved 5G services.
Emmanuel Lugagne Delpon, Orange France CTO Networks, said the trials leverage breakthrough spectrum, sustainable technologies, and cloud-native solutions to enhance customer experiences.
Ericsson France CEO Christian Leon highlighted the collaboration as a milestone in performance, sustainability, and openness for mobile networks.
The trials follow Ericsson’s recent three-year deal with VodafoneZiggo in the Netherlands, which covers 3,000 sites and includes deployment of 3.5 GHz spectrum and network modernisation.
