Nokia bolsters AI network capabilities with HPE technology deal
Finnish telecoms giant acquires HPE’s RAN automation assets as industry prepares for shift to 6G.
Text by Martti Asikainen, 2.10.2025 | Photo by Nokia
Nokia has struck a licensing agreement with Hewlett Packard Enterprise to enhance its artificial intelligence-powered network automation platform, as telecoms companies race to develop next-generation infrastructure.
The deal, announced on Wednesday, will see the Finnish firm integrate HPE’s RAN Intelligent Controller technology into its MantaRay service management and orchestration platform.
Most of HPE’s development team working on the technology transferred to Nokia’s mobile networks division on 1 October.
Nokia bolsters automation capabilities ahead of 6G shift
The move strengthens Nokia’s position in radio access network automation, a crucial technology as operators manage increasingly complex multi-vendor networks and prepare for the eventual transition from 5G to 6G networks.
“Our customers worldwide will benefit from the enhanced capabilities of Nokia’s AI-driven automation,” said Tommi Uitto, president of mobile networks at Nokia.
The company claims its MantaRay platform can already achieve autonomous networks level 4 – a high degree of self-management with minimal human intervention.
The financial terms of the licensing agreement were not disclosed.
Nokia invests heavily in AI network tech
Nokia has been investing heavily in AI-driven network technologies as telecoms operators seek to reduce operational costs and improve network performance through automation. The company’s research arm, Nokia Bell Labs, recently celebrated its centenary.
The deal comes as the telecoms equipment industry consolidates around key players capable of developing sophisticated AI and automation tools needed for modern network infrastructure.
Nokia’s key rivals, including Ericsson and Huawei, have also invested significantly in network automation, but Nokia is seeking to differentiate itself through open interfaces and multi-vendor environment support.
The company has repeatedly emphasised that its MantaRay platform is fully compatible with Open RAN standards, giving operators the freedom to select network components from different suppliers. This is particularly important in Europe, where regulators have encouraged operators to reduce dependence on single vendors.
Finnish AI Region
2022-2025.
Media contacts