CW (Cambridge Wireless), an international community for companies involved in the research, development and application of wireless technologies, is teaming up with global technology leader Huawei to deploy and build Cambridge’s first 5G mobile private network within the Science Park. 

The new set-up will allow Cambridge’s world-renowned technology community to undertake cutting edge new digital research and application in key areas such as autonomous vehicles, clean energy and remote surgery. 

The 5G testbed will go live in January and kicks off a three-year partnership between Cambridge Wireless and Huawei, which will involve digital training, business support and joint events. 

The aim is to explore how advanced wireless technology can have a far-reaching impact on both society and the economy. 

“We are constantly working to provide value to CW members,” said Simon Mead, CEO of CW. 

“As home to one of the world’s most advanced R & D ecosystems, Cambridge is perfectly positioned for the rollout of next generation wireless technology and we’re delighted to be driving this initiative with our partners.
 
“We hope to bring something unique to the Science Park to accelerate use cases and development of this technology. We invite ambitious businesses to get involved and through this exciting three-year partnership with Huawei we will support their 5G innovation journey.” 

Huawei vice-president Victor Zhang described the partnership as a key part of the business’s ongoing commitment to the UK. 

He said: “Huawei’s success is built on a relentless drive for innovation and we are able to keep pushing the boundaries of technology when we partner with those who share this ambition. 

“The Cambridge eco-system is recognised as a global leader in technology and we are excited to work with the talent and vision in this eco-system. We hope to enable Cambridge Wireless members to reach new heights by allowing them access to our state-of-the-art equipment and markets including China and beyond. 

“Our commitment to the UK and industry remains as strong as ever and we will continue to offer our expertise and technology to our partners to promote connections and innovation.”

The 5G testbed will be based at Cambridge Science Park, owned by Cambridge University, which is currently home to more than 120 tech companies and scale-ups.

Additional partnerships with TusPark UK and Freshwave have been developed to accelerate the digitalisation of The Cambridge Science Park and enable businesses to exploit new capabilities, boost innovation and gain competitive advantage as they shift towards the adoption of 5G.

“We are looking for organisations who would like to create, accelerate and test out new and innovative applications and products on the CW 5G Testbed,” said Abhi Naha, chief commercial officer at CW.

• The 5G Testbed will be launched in January 2021. To find out more and how to get involved, call Abhi Naha on +44(0)1223 967 101 or email him at: abhi.naha [at] cambridgewireless.co.uk