Nvidia Expands AI Infrastructure Reach Through Nokia, SoftBank, and IREN Partnerships

Nvidia is rapidly expanding its AI infrastructure footprint through strategic partnerships and investments spanning telecommunications, data center construction, and governance. In October 2025, Nvidia invested $1 billion in Nokia to co-develop AI-RAN solutions, integrating its accelerated computing platforms—including CUDA and the ARC-Pro Aerial RAN Computer—into Nokia's RAN portfolio. Nokia is now porting its 5G-Advanced and 6G software stacks onto Nvidia hardware to create AI-native base stations that process data at the edge. Nokia's AI pivot is delivering results: the company reported 49% year-over-year growth in AI and cloud net sales in Q1 2026, contributing to €1 billion in new orders. Nokia raised its AI and cloud growth forecast from 16% to 27% CAGR through 2028, citing accelerating hyperscaler capital expenditure. Nokia shares have climbed approximately 105% year to date as of May 12, 2026.

Nvidia is simultaneously pursuing separate strategic expansions. The company entered discussions with SoftBank to develop AI servers manufactured in Japan, targeting a production system by the end of the decade for high-performance servers supporting advanced GPUs. Nvidia also partnered with IREN Limited to deploy 5 gigawatts of DSX-aligned AI infrastructure across IREN's data center pipeline, expanding Nvidia-accelerated compute in DSX AI factories for enterprise customers and AI-native startups. On the governance side, Nvidia's board appointed Suzanne Nora Johnson as a director and audit committee member effective July 13, 2026, expanding the board to eleven members.