The landscape of mobile networking is undergoing a seismic shift, with the cellular industry rapidly advancing towards Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) automation. According to a recent SNS Telecom & IT report, investments in automated Open RAN software are expected to skyrocket from less than $100 million today to nearly $700 million by 2027, a testament to the transformative potential of this technology. This substantial surge in investment reflects the growing recognition of Open RAN’s ability to revolutionize the cellular industry by enhancing network performance, efficiency, and flexibility. As the industry transitions from traditional systems to more sophisticated and programmable solutions, the adoption of Open RAN automation is poised to set new standards for mobile networks.
The Driving Forces Behind Open RAN Automation
The transition towards Open RAN is driven by several key technological advancements. The adoption of open interfaces, common information models, virtualization, and software-driven networking has made it possible to replace traditional Distributed Self-Optimized Networks (D-SON) and Centralized Self-Optimized Networks (C-SON) with more sophisticated Open RAN automation. Near-Real-Time (Near-RT) and Non-Real-Time (Non-RT) RAN Intelligent Controllers (RICs), along with the Service Management & Orchestration (SMO) framework, are pivotal in realizing these benefits. These technologies collectively enhance RAN programmability and automation, leading to substantial improvements in network performance, efficiency, and cost control.
The ability to deploy Extended Applications (xApps) and RAN Applications (rApps) further extends the flexibility and functionality of these automated networks, allowing for more adaptive and intelligent control over network resources. By providing a framework for real-time decision-making, these applications can dynamically allocate resources, optimize network traffic, and ensure a consistent quality of service. This shift from proprietary systems to open standards and interoperable solutions represents a significant leap forward in how cellular networks are managed and optimized.
Pioneering Efforts by Industry Leaders
AT&T stands out as a pioneer in the commercial implementation of Open RAN automation. The telecom giant’s $14 billion, five-year contract with Ericsson marks a significant milestone in this area. Using Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) as the SMO and Non-RT RIC platform, AT&T aims to replace its existing dual-SON solutions and streamline distributed RAN management systems. The migration is slated to begin in 2025, focusing on the deployment of third-party and in-house rApps for RAN resource optimization, user experience assurance, spectrum efficiency, and energy savings.
Despite an anticipated short-term increase in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to the simultaneous operation of multiple systems, AT&T expects long-term benefits in network performance and efficiency. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to leveraging automation for superior network management. By adopting Open RAN automation, AT&T aims to create a more flexible and scalable network infrastructure that can adapt to the evolving demands of users and emerging technologies.
Global Adoption and Regional Initiatives
Around the globe, leading telecom operators are embracing Open RAN automation, signaling a broad consensus on its importance for the future of mobile networks. In Canada, Telus is revamping half of its RAN footprint, replacing Huawei equipment as part of its large-scale Open RAN deployment. Swisscom in Europe is also incorporating an SMO and Non-RT RIC platform to effectively manage multi-technology networks, striving for a future-proof brownfield mobile network. Similarly, Deutsche Telekom is developing a vendor-independent SMO framework, while Vodafone Group plans to implement Open RAN automation across 170,000 cell sites worldwide.
These initiatives reflect a shared vision among global telecom operators to move away from proprietary systems towards more flexible, interoperable solutions that enhance performance and cost efficiencies. The collaborative efforts of these operators highlight the growing importance of Open RAN automation in achieving a more resilient and adaptable network infrastructure. By embracing these advancements, operators can ensure that their networks remain competitive and capable of meeting the increasing demands of modern connectivity.
Technological Advancements and Ecological Impact
The potential of RAN automation extends beyond network performance and efficiency gains; it also promises to deliver substantial ecological benefits. By automating and optimizing the management of RAN systems, these new platforms significantly reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions. This is particularly important as the cellular industry strives to balance technological advancement with environmental responsibility. China Mobile, for example, has initiated the deployment of a RAN automation platform, beginning with a digital twin project in Henan province. In Japan, SoftBank’s implementation of a closed-loop automation solution for cluster-wide RAN optimization in high-traffic areas like stadiums is yielding remarkable improvements in control cycle efficiency compared to traditional C-SON systems.
In essence, these advancements not only streamline operational costs but also contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for mobile networking. By reducing the ecological footprint of network operations, operators can play a crucial role in supporting global sustainability efforts. This dual focus on technological innovation and environmental stewardship underscores the transformative potential of Open RAN automation in creating a more efficient and responsible cellular industry.
Future Prospects of Open RAN Automation
AT&T is breaking new ground in the commercial deployment of Open RAN automation. The telecom giant’s landmark $14 billion, five-year agreement with Ericsson marks a key step forward. Through Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) as the SMO and Non-RT RIC platform, AT&T plans to phase out its current dual-SON solutions and simplify distributed RAN management systems. This transition will commence in 2025, emphasizing the integration of third-party and in-house rApps to optimize RAN resources, ensure user experience, improve spectrum efficiency, and achieve energy savings.
Even though AT&T anticipates a short-term rise in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) due to managing multiple systems concurrently, the company expects long-term gains in network performance and operational efficiency. This strategic initiative highlights AT&T’s dedication to utilizing automation for enhanced network management. By implementing Open RAN automation, AT&T aims to develop a more flexible and scalable network infrastructure capable of adapting to the continuously changing needs of users and emerging technologies.
