Embodiments of the invention provide a controller, in a cellular wireless network for cancellation of interference from neighboring cells. Logic in the controller determines channel quality of a radio channel between a first base station and a UE. Scheduling logic causes the first base station and a second base station to adjust the number of data streams used for communication within a time period, as a function of the channel quality. Other embodiments provide an apparatus for reducing interference in a receiver that receives N data streams. Signal processing logic receives the N data streams, where N-M of the data streams represent interference with respect to M desired data streams, and cancels the N-M data streams so as to receive the M desired data streams. The N data streams may be received from multiple base stations, or multiple UEs.