Imagine a future where your smartphone connects seamlessly, with lightning-fast speeds and zero lag—all while being kinder to the planet. Sounds like a dream, right? But here’s where it gets controversial: achieving this future requires massive investments in cutting-edge technology, and not everyone agrees on who should foot the bill. Now, Nokia and SoftBank Corp. are taking a bold step forward with a groundbreaking network modernization deal in Japan, and it’s sparking conversations across the industry.
Announced in Tokyo on November 5, 2025, this partnership extends Nokia’s role in modernizing and expanding SoftBank’s 4G and 5G networks. The deal isn’t just about upgrading infrastructure—it’s about revolutionizing connectivity. Nokia’s latest AirScale portfolio and AI-powered MantaRay solution are at the heart of this transformation, promising unparalleled performance and energy efficiency. But here’s the kicker: these solutions aren’t just about speed; they’re designed to support the evolution toward Advanced-5G networks, a leap that could redefine how we interact with technology.
Mark Atkinson, Head of Radio Access Networks at Nokia, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: ‘Our solutions are infused with AI capabilities, delivering industry-leading energy efficiency while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in network performance. This partnership with SoftBank is a testament to our shared vision for the future of connectivity.’ Bold words, but they’re backed by action. Nokia and SoftBank aren’t just partners—they’re founding members of the AI-RAN Alliance, a group driving innovation in AI-driven radio access networks. Together, they’re also diving into 6G research, conducting field trials, and developing a virtualized RAN platform. One standout experiment? Testing Massive MIMO technology in Tokyo’s 7 GHz frequency band for 6G—a move that could set the stage for the next generation of wireless communication.
And this is the part most people miss: while 5G grabs the headlines, the real game-changer might be how these advancements reduce environmental impact. Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO of SoftBank Corp., highlighted this aspect: ‘Our upgraded network will not only deliver a superior user experience but also improve efficiency and reduce emissions. This partnership with Nokia is about building a sustainable, AI-powered future for our customers.’*
But let’s pause for a moment—is this progress equitable? As companies like Nokia and SoftBank push the boundaries of innovation, who benefits? Are rural areas being left behind in the race for faster networks? These questions are worth exploring in the comments below.
About Nokia: At its core, Nokia is a B2B technology innovator with a mission to create networks that sense, think, and act. From mobile and fixed networks to cloud solutions, they’re leveraging decades of expertise to pioneer the future. Their Nokia Bell Labs, celebrating a century of innovation, continues to lead long-term research and intellectual property development. With open architectures that integrate seamlessly into any ecosystem, Nokia’s high-performance networks are trusted by service providers, enterprises, and partners worldwide. But here’s the real question: As we embrace these advancements, are we ensuring they serve everyone, not just a select few?
This partnership between Nokia and SoftBank is more than a deal—it’s a glimpse into a future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand. But the journey is far from over. What do you think? Is this the right path forward, or are we missing something critical? Share your thoughts below—let’s spark a conversation that shapes the future of connectivity.
