Core Insights - Ericsson has signed an 8-year contract worth 12.5 billion Swedish Krona (approximately 9.467 billion RMB) with Vodafone Three to provide 5G communication equipment in the UK [1][4] - Vodafone Three was formed from the merger of Vodafone and CK Hutchison's Three UK, and plans to invest 11 billion GBP (approximately 105.64 billion RMB) over the next 10 years to establish an advanced independent 5G network in Europe [1][4] - Vodafone Three is now the largest operator in the UK with approximately 28.8 million users [1] Group 1 - The contract positions Ericsson as a major supplier for the core network across the UK, providing hardware, software, and solutions [4] - Ericsson will introduce new 5G products, including AI and energy-optimized hardware, to enhance data speeds for customers in London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast [4] - Nokia is also a supply partner for Vodafone Three, providing equipment for around 7,000 sites in the UK [4]