To drive innovation that lowers the barrier to entry for deployment of private 5G networks in enterprises, Samsung on Tuesday announced a collaboration with Microsoft on an end-to-end, Cloud-based private 5G network solution. The companies said that they are aiming to achieve greater cost efficiencies in 5G deployments, through a Cloud-based approach to the market.

While ranging from chipset, radio and core network, Samsung is a pioneer in the successful delivery of 5G end-to-end solutions. "We're excited to be working with Microsoft to help enterprises transform the way they operate through next-generation communications," said Wonil Roh, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Product Strategy, Networks Business at Samsung Electronics. 

"Combining Samsung's virtualized 5G solutions and Microsoft Azure cloud, we look forward to delivering a best-in-class 5G solution that advances opportunities in the private network sector".

Enterprises such as smart factories, retail stores, and entertainment venues are expected to be significantly benefited by implementing fully-virtualized 5G solutions on a cloud platform. It will also enable vast improvements in the scalability and flexibility of networks for mobile operators and enterprises.

"The combination of Microsoft Azure and Samsung's virtualized 5G offerings will enable new solutions and lower the barriers to entry for private 5G networks for our mutual customers across retail, manufacturing, entertainment and many other industries," said Yousef Khalidi, Corporate Vice President, Azure for Operators, Microsoft.

Including Korea and the US,  Samsung has been supporting 5G commercial services in leading markets where the majority of the worldwide 5G subscribers are currently located. Also, it is also supporting the expansion of 5G in Japan, and also rapidly expanding its global footprint to new markets including Canada and New Zealand.