Finnish telecom giant Nokia has entered a new partnership with Indonesian operator Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH) to modernize the country’s mobile network with advanced 5G technology and artificial intelligence capabilities, Nokia reports.
The initiative will also involve US technology company NVIDIA.
The agreement will see Nokia support the rollout of low- and mid-band 5G across Indonesia, creating what the companies describe as an AI-ready network capable of delivering faster, more reliable and more intelligent digital services.
The upgraded infrastructure is expected to improve network capacity and coverage nationwide while opening the door to new AI-powered applications for consumers, businesses and public services.
According to Nokia President and CEO Justin Hotard, the telecom industry is entering a new phase where connectivity and artificial intelligence become increasingly interconnected.
“The next phase of network evolution will be defined by how well operators combine connectivity, intelligence and scale,” said Justin Hotard.
The companies say the network will eventually support AI-RAN technology, which combines radio access networks and AI computing infrastructure. Field trials are planned in Indonesia before the end of 2026.
From pilot projects to nationwide rollout
The project builds on earlier cooperation between Nokia, Indosat and NVIDIA, including Southeast Asia’s first AI-powered 5G call demonstrated earlier this year. The partners are now aiming to move from demonstrations to large-scale deployment across Indonesia.
Indosat CEO Vikram Sinha said the investment is about improving the digital experience for millions of Indonesians.
“Together with Nokia and NVIDIA, we are building a reliable and AI-ready network foundation that will elevate connectivity and create a more seamless digital experience for every customer,” said Vikram Sinha.
As part of the agreement, Nokia will deploy new radio and network management technologies designed to improve efficiency, reduce energy consumption and accelerate innovation.
Mid-band 5G is expected to reach around 80 percent of Indosat’s network footprint over the next three and a half years, while low-band 5G will be introduced across the operator’s entire network.
