Cellcom, a leading service provider in Israel, and open RAN software platform provider Parallel Wireless have announced the launch of what they describe as their first-of-a-kind pilot, which will demonstrate the deployment of autonomous 5G standalone (SA) core sites in Israel.
This launch follows the announcement in January of Cellcom's plans to establish a cloud-based 5G SA network.
Cellcom and Parallel Wireless have chosen to partner in conducting experiments that will test innovative open RAN 5G technology. If and when these experiments prove successful, the technology will provide an open network architecture, giving Cellcom more flexibility in cellular network deployments while also providing smoother upgrades in the future.
The pilot will be based on 5G SA technology, with an end-to-end open RAN solution that will include demonstrations of RAN intelligent controller (RIC) capabilities – a smart management layer used for control and advanced performance optimization.
Baruch Navon, President and COO of Parallel Wireless, says that the pilot, scheduled to conclude by the end of 2023, will incorporate advanced applications to improve network performance and efficiency.
Currently, many fifth-generation networks are based on fourth-generation cores. The project partners say that the 5G SA solution could assist in integrating and embedding IoT solutions in transportation, medical, agriculture, and other industries, alongside creating communication solutions tailored to the needs of any organization.
