Vodafone UK has first claimed a live open 4G RAN site, an initiative it says will allow more cellular network providers and faster deployment of remote rural coverage.
The operator’s organisation is one of the largest sponsors of open RAN operators: the UK unit said that with the site now online, it will work to identify communities across the country where it can economically introduce new voice technologies and broadband knowledge.
Vodafone housed the open RAN site at the Royal Welsh Showground events venue.
In fact, the status quo of a live is a significant progression for the operator, following the RAN tests opened in the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland (RoI), Turkey, Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The company came to attention in November 2019 when it submitted a tender for its entire European presence, opening the door to RAN technology.
He also highlighted the virtualized cloud infrastructure, arguing that the technique reduces prices and increases flexibility.
Vodafone said it was being supported by open RAN player Mavenir for the deployment: the company is one of a few alternative network supplier companies which have emerged, alongside other start-ups such as Parallel Wireless (Parallel is powering Vodafone’s RoI trial).
Traditional suppliers, in addition to Nokia and Ericsson, have also supported open RAN technology. Huawei is a supporter of the open RAN and BRITISH operators have also been asked to remove all Huawei kits from their networks until 2027.
Scott Petty, CTO at Vodafone UK said the creation of his first open RAN site is “a vital step.”
“This new technique has the ability to make us less dependent on today’s primary generation providers and to locate tactics in charge of implementing cellular coverage.”
Kavit joined Mobile World Live in May 2015 as Content Editor. He started his journalism career at the Press Association before joining Euromoney’s graduate scheme in April 2010. Read More >>
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