In a pivotal technological advancement, AT&T and Ericsson have implemented what they tout as the inaugural deployment of a third-party Radio Access Network automation application (rApp) on an active production network. This milestone, facilitated through Ericsson’s Intelligent Automation Platform, marks a remarkable stride in multi-vendor programmability and network automation.
Utilizing the industry-standard Open RAN R1 interface, the rApp in question was developed by an independent vendor. It operates on AT&T’s live network, integrated into Ericsson’s Service Management and Orchestration system. The significant deployment, which includes real-time RAN performance optimization through telemetry data and policy objectives, highlights a defining moment in telecom automation.
Rob Soni, Vice President of RAN Technology at AT&T, commented on this achievement, emphasizing the company’s dedication to openness and collaboration. He added, “We look forward to seeing the new levels of innovation, agility, and efficiency that programmability will unlock.”
The deployment highlights the critical role of rApps, serving as foundational elements in telecom automation. These applications run on non-real-time RAN Intelligent Controllers, utilizing artificial intelligence and policy rules to enhance energy efficiency, spectrum utilization, and coverage. Differing from near-real-time counterparts like xApps, which function at more immediate intervals, rApps are essential for tasks requiring longer cycles, such as KPI monitoring and predictive maintenance.
Ericsson heralds this deployment as proof of the company’s readiness to support a truly diverse innovation ecosystem. Anders Vestergren, head of network management at Ericsson, highlights the platform’s role in accelerating Open RAN adoption, facilitating a shift from closed, single-vendor networks to an open, standardized architecture. Central to this shift is the use of common interfaces, like R1, that allow rApps to communicate with service management platforms for real-time RAN adjustments.
