Nokia to Invest €360m in Germany for Advanced Communication Technology

Nokia, a leading telecommunications company, has recently announced plans to invest a significant €360m (equivalent to $392.4m) in the enhancement of its software, hardware, and chip design capabilities at its facilities located in Ulm and Nuremberg, Germany.

This substantial investment is a part of a four-year IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) initiative, which is a collaborative effort between Nokia, the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Climate Protection, and the German states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.

The primary objective of Nokia’s funding is to strengthen the development of integrated hardware and software systems tailored for future mobile communications, with a specific focus on standards such as 5G-Advanced and the upcoming 6G. The project will also focus on the creation of high-performance systems-on-chips using a digital twin approach, which are expected to play a crucial role in the next generation of mobile communications, particularly in the field of radio and optical products.

In addition to telecommunications advancements, the project also aligns with the European Green Deal by highlighting the energy efficiency of the systems. To further demonstrate its dedication to energy efficiency, Nokia is working in partnership with various research institutes and universities.

Furthermore, Nokia President of Mobile Networks, Tommi Uitto, expressed his enthusiasm for the funding, stating: “This important funding will support our efforts to advance the telecommunications industry in Germany and in Europe, helping to drive innovation and strengthen competitiveness. In particular, it will help our research into microelectronics that will power future technologies such as 6G, artificial intelligence, and the metaverse as well as develop networks that are more energy-efficient and powerful. Germany is an important market for Nokia, and we look forward to working with the government to produce cutting-edge technology that is ‘Made in Germany’.”

In addition to the investment in Germany, Nokia has recently signed a patent license agreement with tech giant Apple in July 2023. With an extensive patent portfolio comprising nearly 20,000 patent families, over 5,500 of which are deemed essential for 5G technology, Nokia is poised to continue its significant contributions to the evolution of telecommunications technology.

In conclusion, Nokia’s substantial investment in Germany is set to drive the development of advanced communication technology, including 5G and 6G standards, and further solidify the company’s position as a frontrunner in the global telecommunications industry. With a focus on energy efficiency and collaboration with research institutes, Nokia is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of telecommunications technology.