Nokia, Indosat make AI-RAN push in Indonesia

Nokia has formalised a strategic collaboration with Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison to modernise the operator’s mobile infrastructure across Indonesia using advanced 5G Radio Access Network capabilities. The agreement focuses on enhancing the existing network architecture to support the growing demand for high-speed data services while laying the groundwork for artificial intelligence integration. This partnership is designed to improve overall network performance and operational efficiency through the deployment of Nokia’s latest AirScale portfolio.

The modernisation programme encompasses a significant portion of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison’s footprint, targeting both urban centres and developing regions. By upgrading the current infrastructure, the operator aims to provide more consistent coverage and higher capacity to its subscriber base. The integration of artificial intelligence into the radio access network is expected to automate various management tasks, such as traffic steering and energy conservation, which are critical for large-scale 5G deployments.

A central component of this initiative is the transition towards AI-RAN, which allows for more intelligent resource allocation based on real-time network conditions. Nokia will supply its latest generation of base stations and hardware, which are designed to be more energy-efficient than legacy systems. This technical shift aligns with the operator's long-term sustainability goals and its desire to reduce operational expenditure while scaling its fifth-generation services.

The collaboration also involves the implementation of advanced software solutions that enable the network to learn from usage patterns. This predictive capability allows the infrastructure to anticipate congestion and adjust parameters automatically to maintain service quality. For Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, the move represents a significant step in its digital transformation journey, moving beyond traditional connectivity to provide a platform for sophisticated enterprise and consumer applications.

Indonesia remains a highly competitive telecommunications market with a rapidly growing appetite for mobile data and digital services. By adopting AI-enabled RAN technology, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison intends to differentiate its service offering through superior reliability and lower latency. The modernisation project is also expected to facilitate the development of new use cases in sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and smart cities, which require robust and intelligent wireless connectivity.

Following the initial phases of this modernisation drive, both companies will continue to explore further opportunities for innovation within the Indonesian telecommunications sector. The rollout of these advanced 5G capabilities is expected to continue throughout the coming months as the operator expands its network reach. This ongoing investment reflects the broader industry trend of combining telecommunications infrastructure with artificial intelligence to create more resilient and responsive digital ecosystems across Southeast Asia.