Celona unveils AerFlex to simplify private 5G for enterprises

Celona has announced the launch of AerFlex, a cloud-controlled, access point-only private 5G solution, designed to simplify how enterprises deploy and manage wireless connectivity.

AerFlex removes the need for on-site servers and complex integration requirements, aiming to make private 5G accessible, scalable and more cost-effective for organisations of varying sizes. According to Celona, this new platform has been purpose-built to support the continued expansion of AI-driven operations across sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and energy, particularly where traditional Wi-Fi infrastructure proves inadequate.

Cloud-controlled architecture

The AerFlex platform uses an access point (AP)-only architecture managed through the cloud. This approach enables what Celona describes as rapid deployment, potentially allowing networks to be operational in a matter of hours. The elimination of local servers is intended to reduce complexity at individual sites as well as lower the total cost of ownership for customers implementing private wireless networks.

Celona states that AerFlex supports advanced automation and the deployment of physical AI and robotics, promising improved support for real-time decision-making in industrial environments. The cloud-based orchestration is designed to enable centralised management, while secure local data breakout aims to ensure data security and resiliency for critical operations.

The solution has already been put to the test by Cargill, a global company in food, agriculture, and industrial sectors, which is utilising AerFlex to connect 20 satellite offices with warehousing operations. According to Cargill, the platform is being used to streamline manufacturing processes, improve supply chain efficiency and automate forklifts on warehouse floors.

"Cargill operates over a thousand locations worldwide, many in remote or space-constrained environments where traditional infrastructure just doesn't work," said Robert Greiner, Director Platform Engineering for Customer, Commercial & Business Operations Digital Technology at Cargill. "Celona AerFlex gives us a secure, scalable private 5G solution that supports the growing role of AI and automation across our operations. Its innovative design and cloud-based management simplify deployment by eliminating the need for dedicated IT personnel at each location."

Industry demand for private 5G

The launch addresses mounting demand for high-performance wireless connectivity in industries where reliable network performance is critical. Industrial sectors including refineries, factories, warehouses, and mining sites are increasingly looking to private 5G to fill the gap left by Wi-Fi in coverage, reliability and speed.

Celona positions AerFlex as a response to these requirements. Unlike legacy telecommunications products or fragmented small cell systems that commonly mandate multiple vendors and hardware components, AerFlex streamlines the process by distributing network functions between its access points and the cloud, using CelonaOS as its unified private 5G operating system. This is designed to provide seamless integration across radio, core and management layers while maintaining operational security.

Industry observers have also weighed in on the new architecture. Pablo Tomasi, Principal Analyst at Omdia, commented on the potential for AerFlex to change how enterprises approach their network needs.

"As enterprises accelerate industrial AI at the edge, they need private 5G solutions that combine simplicity, agility and control," said Pablo Tomasi, Principal Analyst at Omdia. "Celona AerFlex stands out with its AP-only model and cloud-native architecture - eliminating traditional deployment complexity while delivering secure, low-latency performance. Its integrated design uniquely positions it to meet the strategic demands of modern enterprise networks."

Enterprise adoption and outlook

Celona claims that its AP-only architecture enables faster rollouts and greater ease of management compared with traditional wireless networks. The firm also emphasises that built-in resiliency, centralised orchestration, and the ability to scale networks across multiple locations are at the core of the AerFlex model.

Rajeev Shah, CEO and co-founder of Celona, described the implications of the platform for enterprises seeking to adopt private 5G solutions in response to an increase in AI-driven workloads.

"Celona AerFlex marks a major leap forward in making private 5G truly accessible and operationally efficient for enterprises of all sizes," said Rajeev Shah, CEO and co-founder of Celona. "By combining innovation with radical simplicity, we're removing the traditional barriers to private 5G adoption - enabling more organisations to harness its performance, reliability, and security at a time when AI is transforming every industry."

AerFlex is available immediately. Celona highlights that the solution is intended for deployment in a wide range of enterprises aiming to modernise their operations with AI and automation, especially in environments where existing wireless solutions may not be sufficient.