- The US government has awarded over $117 million to develop Open RAN hardware, with Airspan Networks receiving the largest grant of $42.7 million.
- This funding, part of the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, aims to enhance the Open RAN ecosystem and support innovation in wireless networks.
What happened: Open RAN funding boosts US hardware development
The US government has awarded over $117 million in funding to develop commercially viable Open RAN hardware. This initiative, announced by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), is part of the second phase of the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, which aims to support the Open RAN ecosystem.
Nine companies received grants, with Airspan Networks securing the largest amount of $42.7 million for a project focused on creating a power-efficient 4G/5G O-RU extensible platform. The funding is intended to enhance the hardware supply chain and encourage innovation in open and interoperable wireless networks. Overall, this funding round has committed more than $530 million to the initiative, reinforcing the importance of advancing Open RAN technologies.
Also read: Boost Mobile and Mavenir achieve first Open RAN handover
Also read: Verizon launches multi-vendor Open RAN DAS Systems
Why this is important
This funding represents a significant step towards revitalising the Open RAN industry, which has faced challenges in meeting its growth potential. Open RAN, designed to promote interoperability among different network components, is seen as a crucial element in modernising telecommunications infrastructure. The US government’s investment aims to address the current obstacles that have hindered Open RAN adoption, particularly in competitive markets like the US and Japan, where revenue declines have been reported.
Such funding not only bolsters US companies but also strengthens alliances with international partners, fostering a collaborative approach to telecommunications innovation. The emphasis on developing open radio unit technology aligns with broader trends towards open-source solutions in various tech sectors, including AI and cloud computing. As the industry strives to reduce reliance on traditional vendors, this initiative could pave the way for a more diverse and competitive marketplace.
Moreover, with approximately $1 billion still available under the Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, there is potential for further advancements in Open RAN technologies. This could lead to enhanced network reliability and performance, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike. As we move toward a more interconnected digital future, these developments are vital in ensuring robust and resilient telecommunications networks.
