Singtel is launching 5G edge compute infrastructure for enterprises, that includes Microsoft Azure Stack as one of the options, to deliver fast and secure 5G applications. Enterprises will be able to use Singtel’s Multi-access Edge Compute (MEC) infrastructure to process applications like autonomous guided vehicles, drones, robots, virtual, augmented or mixed reality closer to their end-users. Combined with high speed connectivity from Singtel’s 5G network, enterprises will be able to deliver these applications with low latency of less than 10 milliseconds. Trials are set to begin this year.
The collaboration also enables existing Azure customers to explore the benefits of 5G and MEC conveniently and seamlessly. Businesses using Azure Stack will be able to cost-effectively add new capabilities to their existing applications, such as private connectivity and real-time data analysis.
Mr Bill Chang, Chief Executive Officer of Group Enterprise at Singtel said, “The trials for Singtel 5G MEC allow enterprises to enjoy the best of both worlds with Azure Stack, Microsoft’s trusted hybrid cloud solution, and Singtel 5G MEC’s ultra-low latency performance. Our collaboration places the benefits of 5G and MEC, such as high connection speeds and low latency, in the hands of enterprises, empowering them to use, create, deploy and scale-up new 5G solutions. In addition, enterprises can also access new, innovative 5G solutions developed by Singtel’s and Microsoft’s ecosystems of solution providers and app developers.”
“Today marks a new chapter in our collaboration with Singtel to unlock the power of 5G and bring the cloud closer than ever to devices and customers. With Singtel’s 5G network, Microsoft’s cloud and edge solutions, and our combined ecosystem of partners, we lower the barriers for enterprises to adopt next generation technologies that drive real business value,” said Mr Yousef Khalidi, Corporate Vice President Azure for Operators at Microsoft Corp.
Singtel 5G MEC has the potential to transform the way sectors such as the public service, transportation, advanced manufacturing and logistics operate. The infrastructure can enable most of these services to be moved to 5G MEC quickly and seamlessly without a break in service provision - offering the advantages of higher speeds and lower latency for users to enable autonomous systems, robotics and vehicles. Enterprises will be able to leverage more edge computing capabilities and solutions as more edge computing apps developers and IoT device vendors join Singtel’s 5G ecosystem of partners.