Dell Technologies, ahead of the 2026 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, launched the high-performance XR9700 server designed for edge computing. It simultaneously introduced AI-assisted capabilities to its Open Telecom Ecosystem Lab (OTEL) and added Nokia support to its cloud-native telecom infrastructure modules.
The new XR9700 server features closed-loop liquid cooling and a ruggedized IP66-rated chassis, suitable for "zero-footprint" deployments. It can be installed in space-constrained environments such as utility poles, building facades, or rooftops. Dell stated that its thermal management architecture can maintain stable performance across a wide temperature range from -40 degrees to 115 degrees Fahrenheit.
The device is powered by an Intel Xeon 6 system-on-chip, integrating vRAN Boost and AMX technologies. It supports fronthaul connectivity for up to 15 5G sectors from a single server and can run edge and AI workloads. Management is achieved through the integrated Dell Remote Access Controller and Cloud RAN software, enabling remote configuration.
Charles Tsai, Senior Director of Telecom Product Management at Dell, pointed out at the launch event: "The XR9700 is designed to deliver open compute resources to the far edge. This will become a key differentiator for telecom providers, creating new opportunities for networks and business." He added that these opportunities could include using the server as a remote data center.
Tsai further explained: "The XR9700 brings high compute power and AI intelligence comparable to a remote data center. This enables telecom providers to introduce new business models. Operators can go beyond connectivity to offer services like real-time video analytics, automated industrial control, or low-latency applications."
Dell's OTEL program has added new AI-assisted telecom testing and validation capabilities. This includes a chatbot to help test engineers with script development and troubleshooting, and a manager assistant to transform telemetry data into insights. Sandro Tavares, Head of Telecom Marketing at Dell, stated: "Our goal is to empower the industry to accelerate innovation, simplify network integration, and make the software testing and certification process faster and more precise."
The OTEL ecosystem is integrated into Dell's Telecom Infrastructure Module program, which aims to reduce telecom cloud complexity. Dell this week added support for Nokia's autonomous networking and core enterprise products, helping telecom companies transition to open cloud-native architectures to launch new services faster and monetize 5G.
