Nokia (NOK 0.38%) surprised investors in October 2025 with the announcement of a strategic partnership with Nvidia (NVDA +1.67%). The two companies will be working together to develop and deploy artificial intelligence (AI) mobile networks. As part of the deal, Nvidia will also invest $1 billion in Nokia.
Shares in the Finnish tech company rose nearly 21% after the news, reaching its highest price in a decade. There's been a pullback since then, but Nokia is looking like an exciting AI investment opportunity for 2026. Could this be your last chance to invest $1,000 before it takes off? Let's find out.
Image source: Getty Images.
The partnership should be mutually beneficial
Nokia and Nvidia's partnership centers around the development of AI radio access network (AI-RAN) technology. AI-RAN leverages AI to manage wireless network workloads, improving performance and efficiency. As part of the partnership, Nokia will use Nvidia-powered AI-RAN products and Nvidia's CUDA platform in its 5G and 6G RAN software.
This deal is a significant win for Nokia, which gains access to Nvidia's top-notch products and software, along with that $1 billion investment. Nvidia also stands to benefit, as it will expand from supplying data centers to wireless networks and ensure that its AI-RAN products are part of 5G and 6G networks.
NYSE: NOK
Key Data Points
However, the partnership is still in the early stages. Nokia, Nvidia, and T-Mobile will be testing AI-RAN technology this year, and commercial availability is expected in late 2027.
You may want to consider investing $1,000 (or another amount that fits your budget) in Nokia now if you're bullish on its deal with Nvidia and its incorporation of AI technology. If you're not completely sold yet, you could keep it on your watchlist and wait until more progress has been made.
