Ericsson has launched a bold new model for deploying 5G networks—delivering carrier-grade core infrastructure as an AI-powered software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform through a strategic partnership with Google Cloud. The new offering, called Ericsson On-Demand, enables communications service providers (CSPs) to spin up 5G core services in minutes, scale elastically, and pay only for what they use—eliminating the need for upfront infrastructure or complex lifecycle management.
Built on Google Cloud’s Kubernetes Engine (GKE) and backed by its global AI infrastructure, Ericsson On-Demand combines the reliability of telecom-grade systems with the flexibility of public cloud. Ericsson handles end-to-end service delivery and operations—including provisioning, scaling, troubleshooting, and security—allowing CSPs to rapidly enter new markets or expand existing footprints without building and maintaining physical networks. Key use cases include fixed wireless access (FWA), private enterprise networks, and agile service innovation across regions.
The platform’s architecture includes built-in geo-restriction capabilities, cloud-native firewalls, and identity and access management (IAM) controls to meet compliance and sovereignty requirements. Ericsson’s Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) teams support the service around the clock, using AI to monitor, diagnose, and resolve issues in real time. New features can be added incrementally without downtime, enabling CSPs to keep pace with evolving market demands and technology upgrades.
- Instant provisioning: Launch full 5G core capabilities in minutes with no hardware dependencies
- Elastic scaling: Dynamically scale up or down to meet demand—no overprovisioning or stranded capex
- Consumption-based pricing: Pay only for what is used; no licensing or infrastructure costs
- 24/7 managed operations: AI-powered lifecycle management and real-time SRE support
- Global reach and compliance: Built on Google Cloud’s infrastructure across 42 cloud regions
- Use cases: Fixed wireless access, enterprise 5G, hybrid deployments, global expansion
“Ericsson On-Demand is more than a product; it’s an enabler of ambition,” said Eric Parsons, VP of Emerging Segments at Ericsson. “It gives CTOs the agility to outpace market change and the clarity to seize opportunities that were previously just out of reach.”
“With Ericsson On-Demand on Google Cloud’s AI infrastructure, CSPs can rapidly deploy 5G core and tap into new revenue streams,” added Muninder Singh Sambi, VP and GM of Networking and Security at Google Cloud.
