In a groundbreaking move, Parallel Wireless, Inc., a U.S. based Open RAN innovator, has officially launched the general availability of its pioneering 5G Standalone (SA) software stack. The innovative solution, a first of its kind globally, is designed to be hardware-agnostic, allowing operators, private networks, and public safety networks to seamlessly deploy their RAN infrastructure across diverse processor hardware platforms.
Imagine a search and rescue mission in remote rural areas, being empowered by the wings of a drone, beaming down 5G connectivity. This very scene is unfolding in Warwickshire, UK, thanks to Virgin Media O2’s innovative approach. The drone, armed with a petite mobile base station, creates a nimble communication network, offering vital real-time data to rescuers.
In collaboration with Ericsson and Qualcomm, T-Mobile, renowned as the ‘uncarrier,’ has undertaken a groundbreaking 5G standalone (SA) test, showcasing the potential of its millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum. The test utilized an impressive eight channels, achieving a peak download speed of 4.3 Gbps, with uplink channels combining to reach 420 Mbps.
The race for 5G supremacy is intense, and LexisNexis IPlytics explores the landscape in their 2023 report. CEO Tim Pohlmann notes a significant surge in 5G patents, with the top 10 players owning 76% of declared patent families. The US leads in patent volume, followed by China and Europe. Huawei dominates the top 50 ranking. Pohlmann emphasizes the role of Chinese companies, particularly Huawei, in shaping the 5G sector, extending their influence to the automotive industry
In a significant move towards advancing 5G network capabilities, Telenor and Ericsson have officially entered a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration aims to pioneer research, development, and testing of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) solutions, with a primary focus on enhancing energy performance without compromising network quality.
T-Mobile’s steadfast dedication to Texas has led to unmatched 5G network coverage, cementing the Lone Star State’s connectivity footprint. Continual site enhancements and a robust expansion program showcase this commitment, with significant contributions to local communities through initiatives like ‘Homegrown Grants’ and the ambitious Project 10Million.
Mitratel is significantly expanding its telecom mast portfolio with the purchase of 803 towers from Gametraco Tunggal, marking a strategic move beyond Java Island. This $113 million acquisition not only increases Mitratel’s infrastructure landscape but also welcomes 1,327 new tenants. The company’s ongoing investment in fiber optic networks aims to enhance tower operations, and crucially support the anticipated deployment of 5G networks in Indonesia.
Unveiling a transformative pact in the maritime industry, Spain’s Sateliot and maritime container tracking leader T42 aim to revolutionize container tracking and monitoring with 5G-IoT technology. This exceptional venture will deploy thousands of 5G-IoT sensors linked to Sateliot’s LEO satellite constellation, promising unparalleled oversight over sea-borne goods.
As Portugal’s telecom operator Nos marks two years of 5G services, it declares readiness to launch services on a new 5G standalone infrastructure. Despite the slower than expected progress, Nos’s move signifies a key contribution to the sector. Intriguingly, the viability and potential benefits of this new infrastructure remain a matter of debate. With collaborations with Nokia and Ericsson, Nos envisions a surge in ultra-low latency services.
In an ambitious collaboration, Ericsson is partnering with Concordia University, the University of Manitoba, and the University of Waterloo to bolster cybersecurity for 5G networks, utilizing AI and automation solutions. Their objective: foreseeing and mitigating network breaches for both current 5G and upcoming 6G networks while navigating increasing network stress and complex security requirements.