Nokia to license technology from HPE to advance its AI-powered SMO and network automation assets

• Agreement includes licensing technology assets to enhance Nokia’s MantaRay SMO portfolio to boost customer experience. 

• Development team to join Nokia Mobile Networks as part of the deal. 

• MantaRay SMO is Nokia’s industry-leading AI-driven RAN automation and autonomous networking solution. 

Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that it has licensed technology assets in an agreement with HPE that will boost its capabilities in AI-powered radio access network (RAN) automation. The move will further strengthen Nokia’s industry-leading MantaRay SMO (Service Management and Orchestration) platform and expand its solutions in AI-driven RAN automation and autonomous networking. 

Under the global agreement, Nokia will gain access to HPE’s RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC), integrating it with MantaRay AI-Powered SMO and Network Automation assets. In addition, the associated development team has largely transferred to Nokia Mobile Networks, effective October 1, 2025.  

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: “This licensing deal with HPE will further strengthen our proven MantaRay SMO portfolio by adding these assets and expertise. Our customers worldwide will benefit from the enhanced capabilities of Nokia’s AI-driven automation, orchestration and open ecosystems, enabling them to manage multi-vendor networks more efficiently and prepare for the transition from 5G to 6G.”  

MantaRay SMO is Nokia’s comprehensive solution for advanced AI-driven, zero-touch automation and is already capable of achieving TM Forum’s autonomous networks level 4 today. It is also fully Open RAN compliant and supports open R1 interface for rApps.