Samsung Electronics and KDDI announced the completion of the first 5G end-to-end (E2E) network slicing demonstration with a RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) in Tokyo, Japan.
KDDI and Samsung showed various new use cases using 5G E2E network slicing on a virtual network that ties together Samsung’s virtualized core, virtualized RAN, and orchestration.
5G E2E network slicing will play a key role for mobile operators by enabling multiple virtual networks to be created within a single physical network infrastructure. Each virtual network will have different service characteristics, referred to as ‘slices’ that allow mobile carriers to create new services and business models.
For instance, within the same mobile network, operators can create a low latency-focused slice dedicated to automated vehicle drivers, while a separate high bandwidth slice can be created for video streamers. Both slices can be provided simultaneously without deploying additional network resources or hindering the quality of service in either case.
For businesses, network slicing can be used to prioritize different performance needs, such as when hospitals must prioritize more bandwidth to emergency room admissions, and less to visitor services.
Samsung and KDDI explored the capabilities of 5G E2E network slicing, including verification of the following: low latency, guaranteed throughputs, and the creation of multiple slices. Furthermore, a RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) that manages radio resources to guarantee required service levels, was demonstrated.
Samsung and KDDI aim to standardize E2E network slicing in an international standard organization.
“The demonstration provides a foundation that will allow KDDI to offer new 5G commercial services leveraging its 5G commercial networks,” said Toshikazu Yokai, executive officer, general manager of Mobile Network Technical Development Division at KDDI.
“This collaboration with KDDI on 5G E2E network slicing is a significant step towards new business models using 5G technology,” said Taiyeon Kim, head of Global Technology Service Team, Networks Business at Samsung Electronics.
