Canadian telco SaskTel has partnered with Samsung to roll out Samsung's cloud-native 4G and 5G Core on its network.

In an announcement today, Saskatchewan-based SaskTel noted that the collaboration forms part of its plans to bolster its 5G expansion across the province.

The telco said that Samsung’s Core will provide high speeds and low latency, while boosting 4G and 5G user experience across voice, data, and text services.

At present, SaskTel's 5G network covers nearly 90 percent of Saskatchewan's population. SaskTel launched its 5G network back in 2021.

Samsung's Core is virtualized, which SaskTel states will enable enhanced automation, from deployment to scaling and lifecycle management of network functions.

“From developments in AI, to smart agriculture and virtual healthcare, to immersive gaming and IoT, this technology lays the foundation for a future where connectivity empowers people, organizations, and communities to reach their full potential," said Charlene Gavel, SaskTel president and CEO.

The Core network has been implemented in combination with the deployment of SaskTel’s 3,800 MHz and 3,500 MHz wireless spectrum.

SaskTel adds that it will deploy Samsung's 5G Standalone (5G SA) Core as the next phase of its network modernization.

“As we push the boundaries of innovation globally, Samsung remains committed to providing our customers with advanced solutions that drive connectivity and growth in an increasingly digital world," added Stephen Wiktorski, VP and head of networks at Samsung Canada.

Founded in 1908 as the Department of Railways, Telegraphs, and Telephones, SaskTel provides mobile, Internet broadband, and TV services. The carrier has more than 1.4 million customers.