Vodafone and Ericsson has collaborated to deliver a UK first 5G standalone network slicing trial.
The first on-demand 5G network slice was carried out in a joint lab demonstration, using RAN slicing function as part of virtual reality use in a retail store.
This provided a download speed of 260Mbps and latency of 12.4 milliseconds.
Network slicing is a new service for business customers and app developers, which is enabled by 5G standalone networks.
It allows for mobile operators to create multiple virtual network slices, all of which operate across the same physical network.
Potential use cases expected to benefit from network slicing include mobile gaming, automotive, healthcare, smart cities and broadcast and production.
In total the trial was carried out in 30 minutes, from placing an order through to the creation of the network slice to carry live network traffic.
“Network slicing is an incredibly valuable step forward. By segmenting our network, and customising different slices for different requirements, we can bring to life new ideas that would be impossible otherwise,” said Vodafone UK chief network officer Andrea Dona.
“When we configure our network to empower new services, industries like gaming, entertainment and healthcare can enter a new era. What might seem like science fiction is one step closer thanks to network slicing.”
Ericsson UK and Ireland VP digital services Andrea Spaccapietra added: “Network slicing will play a crucial role in enabling new and innovative 5G services for consumers and enterprises.”
