Ericsson to Unveil 5G Advanced, AI at LEAP 2026

Ericsson is set to return to LEAP 2026 in Riyadh for its fifth consecutive appearance, bringing a robust showcase of 5G Standalone, 5G Advanced, and artificial intelligence solutions. Running from August 31 to September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, the event highlights technologies designed to accelerate Saudi Arabia’s ongoing digital transformation.

Under the theme “Enter New Horizons,” Ericsson will present live demonstrations and technical sessions focused on programmable network technologies. The company aims to illustrate how communications service providers, enterprises, and public-sector entities can leverage intelligent networks to launch innovative services and streamline operations. This year’s exhibition places particular emphasis on the shift toward more agile and software-defined infrastructure.

The Strategic Importance of 5G Standalone and Programmability

A central pillar of Ericsson’s presentation is the distinction between traditional 5G deployments and true 5G Standalone architecture. Unlike hybrid models that rely on legacy core networks, 5G Standalone utilizes a dedicated 5G core. This foundation enables advanced functionalities such as differentiated connectivity and specialized enterprise services that are not possible with earlier-generation infrastructure.

Complementing this is the concept of programmable networks. These systems allow operators to expose specific network capabilities directly to applications and businesses. By doing so, they create opportunities for services that demand precise levels of performance, low latency, or high reliability. Ericsson positions these combined capabilities as essential infrastructure for supporting sophisticated digital services across the Kingdom.

Showcasing 5G Advanced Use Cases

Visitors to LEAP 2026 will also explore 5G Advanced, the next evolutionary stage of commercial 5G networks. Demonstrations will highlight practical applications including augmented reality, mission-critical communications, and differentiated connectivity. These examples underscore the industry’s move beyond general-purpose mobile access toward platforms tailored to specific consumer, business, and government requirements.

For industrial sectors, this evolution promises more reliable automation, real-time data processing, and digitally integrated operational environments. The focus is no longer just on connectivity but on creating robust platforms that support diverse service needs.

AI Integration in Network Operations

Artificial intelligence plays a significant role in Ericsson’s strategy for network optimization. As telecom infrastructures become increasingly software-driven and manage vast numbers of devices and services, AI-driven automation becomes critical for maintaining efficiency. Operators are leveraging AI to automate network optimization, proactively detect issues, and improve resource allocation.

Furthermore, the rise of AI-enabled applications themselves creates new demands on network capacity and consistency. This dynamic increases the importance of having programmable and high-performance networks capable of meeting the rigorous standards required by modern digital tools.

Mission-Critical Connectivity for Key Sectors

Ericsson will also demonstrate mission-critical connectivity scenarios. These technologies are engineered for environments where communication availability, reliability, and performance are non-negotiable. Such capabilities are vital for public safety, transportation, utilities, and industrial operations, where standard best-effort connectivity may fall short.

The inclusion of these demonstrations reflects the broader expansion of 5G technology into enterprise and public-sector infrastructure, moving beyond consumer markets to support critical national functions.

Aligning with Vision 2030

Håkan Cervell, president of Ericsson Saudi Arabia, emphasized the strategic alignment between Ericsson’s technology roadmap and the Kingdom’s long-term goals.

“Through advancements in 5G, AI and programmable networks, we are enabling service providers and enterprises to strengthen digital infrastructure, unlock new opportunities and support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions and long-term digital future,” Cervell said.

Ericsson continues to collaborate with local communications providers, enterprises, and government stakeholders to develop advanced connectivity solutions. This partnership supports the creation of new digital services that drive economic diversification and technological advancement.

A Legacy of Innovation in Saudi Arabia

Marking its 150th anniversary, Ericsson is using LEAP 2026 to highlight its nearly five-decade presence in Saudi Arabia. The company’s history in the Kingdom spans the development of early telecommunications infrastructure through to modern 5G and advanced digital services. This long-standing relationship establishes Ericsson as a key supplier in Saudi Arabia’s continuous telecom modernization efforts.

Why This Shift Matters

Ericsson’s participation in LEAP 2026 signals a pivotal shift in Saudi Arabia’s telecom agenda. The focus is moving from basic 5G deployment to the implementation of advanced network capabilities. 5G Standalone, 5G Advanced, and programmable networks form the foundation for differentiated services and automated operations.

For Saudi operators, the next phase of competition will depend on their ability to transform network capabilities into tangible new services. Success will hinge less on coverage and headline speeds, and more on how effectively companies can package network quality, latency, and reliability into on-demand services for businesses and developers.