Verizon and Google Cloud Partnering on 5G Mobile Edge Computing

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. and SUNNYVALE, Calif. — Verizon and Google Cloud are working together to “bring the power of the cloud” closer to devices at the edge of Verizon’s network. 

Through Verizon 5G Edge and Google Distributed Cloud Edge, Verizon plans to bring Google’s compute and storage services to the edge of the local network, enabling the bandwidth and low latency needed to support real-time enterprise applications, like autonomous mobile robots, intelligent logistics, and factory automation, according to the companies last month.

The partners expect the combination of Verizon’s private On-Site 5G and private 5G Edge with Google Distributed Cloud Edge will enable enterprises to “unlock the power of 5G and mobile edge computing” to gain operational efficiencies, higher levels of security and reliability, and improved productivity.

Verizon and Google Cloud also plan to develop public 5G mobile edge computing for developers and enterprises. The public 5G Edge solution has the potential to enable developers to build and deploy applications at the edge of Verizon’s wireless network in various locations throughout the U.S.           

Ericsson, in collaboration with Verizon, will pilot Verizon 5G Edge with Google Distributed Cloud Edge as part of a proof of concept at its U.S. 5G smart factory. 

“By working with partners like Google Cloud and Ericsson, we’re building the 5G edge compute ecosystem that will enable enterprises in many industries to benefit from having a completely dedicated private network and edge compute infrastructure on-premise,” said Rima Qureshi, chief strategy officer, Verizon. 

“This will allow companies to unlock greater value from data and enable innovative applications involving computer vision, augmented and virtual reality, and machine learning.”

Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said that by bringing intelligence from data centers to the network edge, Verizon 5G Edge with Google Distributed Cloud Edge will allow customers to “build new cross-industry edge solutions, unlock new revenue models, and transform the next generation of customer experiences — from AI-driven in-store operations to live inventory management on the factory floor, the possibilities span multiple industries.”