Gannett Co. (GCI) Partners with Ericsson to Enhance Network Infrastructure and 5G Services
- GCI partners with Ericsson to enhance its network infrastructure and shift towards a cloud-native environment.
- The collaboration focuses on deploying 5G Core solutions to improve operational efficiency and customer experiences.
- GCI aims to streamline operations and deliver superior service quality across all network generations through this partnership.
GCI Enhances Network Infrastructure through Partnership with Ericsson
GCI Communication Corp (GCI) announces a significant partnership with Ericsson aimed at bolstering its core network infrastructure and facilitating a transformative shift towards a cloud-native environment. The collaboration, revealed on April 14, 2025, involves the deployment of Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core solution, which promises to enhance operational efficiency across all generations of GCI's network. By entrusting Ericsson with core network operations, GCI can concentrate on strategic initiatives while leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to improve customer experiences. This partnership signifies a critical step in integrating advanced 5G capabilities into GCI's existing service framework, which has relied on Ericsson's Radio Access Network (RAN) and microwave transport technologies for its 3G, 4G, and 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) networks.
The partnership builds on GCI's pioneering efforts in the Alaskan telecommunications landscape, where it launched the state’s first 5G network in 2020. The collaboration positions GCI to prepare for the rollout of 5G Standalone (SA) services, which are expected to provide enhanced capabilities and experiences for users. By managing both the existing core network and the new cloud-native core platform through its Intelligent Operations Center (IOC), Ericsson aims to optimize GCI's statewide network and enhance connectivity for Alaskans. This joint effort comes at a time when the demand for faster and more reliable wireless connectivity is surging, requiring a strategic response to the complexities of evolving network technologies.
As GCI continues to navigate the ever-changing telecommunications landscape, this partnership with Ericsson not only streamlines operations but also prioritizes the delivery of superior service quality across all network generations. By focusing on advanced 5G services, GCI ensures it can meet the increasing demands of its customers while maintaining robust connectivity. The collaboration stands as a testament to GCI's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, paving the way for a future where seamless connectivity is a reality for all Alaskans.
In related developments, GCI's implementation of Ericsson's technology signifies a broader trend in the telecommunications industry, where providers are increasingly turning to cloud-native solutions to enhance their service offerings. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of agility and efficiency in network management, enabling providers to respond more effectively to consumer needs and market demands. As the telecommunications landscape evolves, partnerships like that of GCI and Ericsson may serve as a model for other companies aiming to modernize their infrastructure and improve service delivery.