Microsoft said it will offer Azure, Azure IoT, Azure AI and Machine Learning combined with Nokia's LTE and 5G-ready private wireless, IP, SD-WAN, and IoT connectivity offerings. They said BT is the first global communications service provider to offer its enterprise customers a managed service that integrates Microsoft Azure cloud and Nokia SD-WAN.
BT customers can access the service through an automated, delegated rights service. BT can manage both the customer Azure vWAN and the unique Agile Connect SD-WAN, based on Nokia’s Nuage SD-WAN 2.0.
Kathrin Buvac, president of Nokia Enterprise and Chief Strategy Officer, said that together, Microsoft and Nokia will accelerate digital modernisation for Industry 4.0. The combinations will be offered to enterprises as well as communication service providers (CSPs).
Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (Nokia DAC) 5G-ready industrial-grade private wireless broadband with on-premise Azure elements will support secure industrial automation needing more reliable connectivity, efficient coverage and better mobility than traditional Wi-Fi networks. Examples include connected smart tools and machines on manufacturing floors for better productivity, flexibility and safety for workers, and autonomous vehicles and robots.
Nokia's Nuage SD-WAN 2.0 enables service providers to offer integration with Microsoft Azure Virtual WAN for branch to cloud connectivity
The companies are also integrating Nokia's Worldwide IoT Network Grid with Azure IoT Central for smooth IoT operations. This lets CSPs offer enterprises a platform for IoT services such as asset tracking and machine monitoring.
Microsoft and Nokia are collaborating to host Nokia's Analytics, Virtualisation and Automation cognitive services on Azure. These will enable CSPs to move out of private data centres and into the Azure cloud to realise cost savings. Predictive Video Analytics is an example of a joint service for CSP subscribers, improving reliability by up to 60 percent.
