Top 10: 5G Edge Computing Platforms

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Mobile Magazine takes a look at some of the leading 5G edge computing platforms
With edge computing fast-becoming a key technology in 5G networks, Mobile Magazine considers some of the leading edge computing platforms that advance 5G

Edge computing is a key technology in 5G networks that can help meet the performance and low latency requirements of 5G networks. 

As the telecommunications industry continues to confront a new range of technologies, 5G connections help provide a high-speed low latency network for smooth communication with IoT sensors across devices. It can also help to process data closer to the data source in order to reduce traffic volumes and business costs.

In considering this, Mobile Magazine takes a look at some of the leading companies that are committed to developing and deploying 5G edge computing platforms.

10. Google Cloud

Image: Google Cloud

CEO: Thomas Kurian

Headquarters: US

Google Distributed Cloud Edge (GDC Edge) is a tool that telecommunications companies use to modernise their networks and support 5G rollouts. As a fully managed hardware and software solution, it extends cloud infrastructure to data centres and enables telecommunications companies to deploy 5G packet core and radio access network (RAN) elements.

The platform also uses a cloud-backed control plane for consistent management at scale, which allows operators to leverage common tools, policies and processes used in the cloud for edge-based mission-critical use cases.

9. Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Image: AWS

CEO: Matt Garman

HQ: US

While not a telecom company, AWS partners with telcos to offer edge computing solutions integrated with 5G networks. The tech giant has partnered with a range of major telecom operators over the years, including Verizon, Vodafone, KDDI and SK Telecom, to deploy its AWS Wavelength service across their 5G networks.

AWS Wavelength embeds AWS compute and storage services within 5G networks and provides ultra-low latency applications at the edge. This allows developers to build applications that require single-digit millisecond latencies. 

8. ZTE

Image: ZTE

CEO: Xu Ziyang

HQ: The People’s Republic of China

ZTE, a major Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturer, has been actively developing edge computing solutions for 5G networks. Operating predominantly in the Chinese market, the company’s Common Edge platform is designed to integrate computing, network and storage resources at the edge to support various 5G use cases.

The organisation has partnered with the likes of China Telecom to deploy edge computing nodes across multiple provinces in China. Likewise, in September 2024, ZTE partnered with MTN South Africa to deliver 5G ultra-range maritime offshore coverage in South Africa.

7. Ericsson

Image: Ericsson

CEO: Börje Ekholm

HQ: Sweden

Ericsson is actively involved in edge computing developments for 5G and is currently conducting a range of trials and early deployments. Namely, its solution for 5G networks is part of their Ericsson Cloud Core portfolio, which enables operators to deploy cloud-native 5G Core networks with distributed architecture.

The company has also partnered with a number of organisations over the years, including Telstra in Australia, to trial 5G edge computing solutions. In 2024, both companies announced the completion of a major upgrade to King Island’s mobile network infrastructure to provide a connectivity boost.

6. Nokia

Nokia has upgraded its AirScale portfolio

CEO: Pekka Lundmark

HQ: Finland

Nokia is another key network vendor developing edge computing solutions for 5G networks, having announced plenty of developments in September 2024. Notably, the telco has significantly upgraded its AirScale portfolio to enhance its capabilities for 5G edge computing deployments. Likewise, it partnered with NTT Data to expand their global Private 5G partnership to accelerate smart city transformation.

Nokia's edge computing platform for 5G is built on their AirFrame technology. It provides a cloud-native infrastructure that supports both centralised and distributed deployments of 5G networks.

5. Microsoft 

Image: Microsoft Azure

CEO: Satya Nadella

HQ: US

Although not a telco, Microsoft Azure works with telecom operators to provide edge computing capabilities in conjunction with 5G networks. Its edge computing solution for 5G networks is Azure Edge Zones, which extends Azure’s capabilities to 5G networks and enables ultra-low latency compute for applications. 

The tech giant has also entered into partnership with a range of leading telcos, including AT&T, Vodafone and Telefonica to deploy Azure Edge Zones - an initiative it continues to expand for telecom operators to be able to better manage and optimise their 5G edge computing deployments.

4. Dell Technologies

Image: Dell Technologies

CEO: Michael Dell

HQ: US

As a leading technology company, Dell Technologies recognises the value in edge computing for communications service providers (CSPs). Its Edge Computing Platform, Dell EMC PowerEdge XE2420, is specifically designed for edge environments. It aims to support 5G deployments by providing high-performance computing capabilities in compact form factors, according to the company. 

Dell also boasts Dell AI for Telecom, an initiative that aims to bring together Dell AI technology and expertise to enable CSPs to achieve the full potential of AI technology across their networks.

3. Huawei

Huawei is involved in edge computing trials and deployments

CEO: Ren Zhengfei

HQ: China

As a major network equipment vendor, Huawei is involved in edge computing trials and deployments, particularly in China. The company’s edge computing platform for 5G is part of their multi-access edge computing solution, which provides a distributed cloud architecture to bring computing and storage resources closer to end-users.

Huawei successfully deployed a range of 5G solutions with China Mobile, including the 5G New Calling solution which was awarded the Best 5G Voice Innovation Award at Network X in October 2024.

2. T-Mobile

T-Mobile continues to be a network leader in the US

CEO: Mike Sievert

HQ: US

T-Mobile continues to be a network leader in the US, covering more than 330 million people across two million square miles alone. It provides 5G-powered edge computing platforms for utilities and other industries, leveraging their nationwide 5G network.

Its edge computing platform leverages its nationwide 5G network to provide low-latency services for various industries. Likewise, T-Mobile Edge Compute allows businesses to run applications closer to where data is generated.

More recently, T-Mobile expanded its edge computing offerings to include specific solutions for smart cities and industrial IoT applications.

1. Verizon

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CEO: Hans Vestberg

HQ: US

Verizon remains one of the world's largest wireless, fibre-optic and global information networks and services companies. Its platform, 5G Edge: Mobile Edge Compute (MEC), is designed to bring the power of the cloud closer to mobile users. It combines Verizon’s 5G network with AWS Wavelength to enable ultra-low latency applications.

The company has continually expanded its 5G offerings by collaborating with various partners, including the likes of IBM and Microsoft, to develop 5G edge computing solutions that are industry-specific. Verizon also offers Private MEC, which is computing and network infrastructure installed on premises.

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