Under 100 Words: A Compact Summary
Mavenir is in the advanced phase of deploying Open RAN for Vodafone Idea, reducing 5G deployment costs. The initiative started in September 2023, utilizes a millimeter-wave spectrum, enhancing 5G capabilities. Mavenir provides Vi with a comprehensive cloud-native Open RAN system, aligning with Vi’s tech transformation. BG Kumar highlights Vi’s leadership in adopting O-RAN in India (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- Telecom network infrastructure provider Mavenir announced on Friday that it is in the advanced commercial phase of a pilot deployment for Vodafone Idea (Vi), introducing an Open RAN (O-RAN) network.
- This move is anticipated to significantly reduce Vi’s deployment costs for its upcoming 5G network rollout. The deployment, initiated in September 2023, is currently operational at key launch sites, actively handling live commercial traffic (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- This marks the first O-RAN-compliant deployment into Vodafone Idea’s network, utilizing the N78 and N258 millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum bands and B1 supporting NSA architecture, according to a joint statement from both companies (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- In a telecommunications network, a Radio Access Network (RAN) facilitates the separation of components in network equipment, allowing telecom companies to acquire hardware and software from various vendors for network construction.
- On the other hand, O-RAN represents a fully disaggregated approach to deploying mobile front and mid-haul networks, entirely constructed on the cloud (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- In contrast to the closed networks of Huawei, Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, and others, O-RAN networks are open and incorporate elements from diverse vendors.
- Mavenir’s O-RAN deployment for Vi, utilizing the millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum, is noteworthy due to its suitability for 5G (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- The high-band, above 24 gigahertz (GHz), proves valuable when targeting densely populated urban areas, providing telecom operators with the opportunity to deliver unprecedented speeds, low latency, and high capacity.
- Mavenir is supplying Vi with a comprehensive, end-to-end cloud-native Open RAN system, encompassing various telecom equipment such as commercial off-the-shelf hardware, radios, and other components.
- Concurrently, it will deliver RAN software capabilities, running on the hybrid cloud application platform OpenShift from the American software company Red Hat. This platform is optimized for deployment in urban environments.
- Jagbir Singh, Chief Technical Officer of Vodafone Idea, expressed that the Open RAN deployment, facilitated through Mavenir’s innovation and collaborative technological initiatives, aligns with their technology transformation roadmap and enriched vendor ecosystem.
- He highlighted the significant role anticipated for O-RAN technology in providing enhanced network capabilities, improved total cost of ownership, and open interfaces that will drive the industry forward in innovative ways.
- Both Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have incorporated the technology into their 5G deployment trials (Vodafone Idea Collaborates with Mavenir).
- BG Kumar, President of Access Networks, Platforms, and Digital Enablement at Mavenir, stated, “Vodafone Idea is at the forefront of introducing the clear advantages of O-RAN technology to the Indian market.
- This market is characterized by unique challenges and opportunities, including a vast subscriber base, high population density, and diverse deployment environments.”
- He further mentioned that Mavenir is actively involved in constructing O-RAN technology platforms that offer increased flexibility, customization, and customer-centric innovation. Simultaneously, the company aims to reduce capital and operating expenditures for telecom operators.
ALSO READ – Vodafone Idea Board Meeting Scheduled for February 27th to Deliberate on Fundraising Strategies.
