admin Microsoft and AT&T have revealed the first real step in a partnership designed to offer customers technology built on AT&T’s network and Microsoft’s cloud.
Microsoft said in a press release held on Tuesday that both the companies are introducing previews for Network Edge Compute (NEC) technology with selected customer and which runs Azure cloud services on AT&T’s edge network locations.
The companies are opening select preview availability for Network Edge Compute (NEC) technology, which weaves Microsoft Azure cloud services into AT&T network edge locations closer to customers. AT&T’s the Network Cloud which is virtualized by 5G core and software-defined is now capable of delivering Azure services. Initially NEC will be available for a limited set of select customers in Dallas and in next year, Los Angeles and Atlanta are targeted for select customer availability.
Corporate vice president of Microsoft Solutions Corey Sanders said, “We are helping AT&T light up a wide range of unique solutions powered by Microsoft’s cloud, both for its business and our mutual customers in a secure and trusted way. The collaboration reaches across AT&T, bringing the hyperscale of Microsoft Azure together with AT&T’s network to innovate with 5G and edge computing across every industry.”
Edge computing can unlock new scenarios and experiences also in mobile gaming, where gaming company Game Cloud Network has created a unique 5G game that’s hosted on the network edge with Microsoft Azure. In developing game-based brand engagement and for a customer of AT&T, Game Cloud Network is a innovator. Using Microsoft’s Azure PlayFab services, the company is now showcasing its new “Tap & Field” game where users race each other in near-real time via this track-and-field-style game, enabled by the speed of 5G-connected devices. Chief executive officer of Game Cloud Network Aaron Baker said, “5G gaming provides consumers with the best of both worlds: highly-immersive experiences on lightweight mobile devices. AT&T and Microsoft are building the perfect environment for game developers to create amazing new possibilities for gamers. 5G and edge computing have the potential to radically change how we play together and launch new business opportunities for brands and game publishers.”
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