(Alliance News) - Deutsche Telekom AG, Vodafone Group PLC, Orange SA and Telefonica SA on Wednesday joined forces to back the rollout of new open radio access network technology.
The implementation of new open RAN technology is "widely expected to have a positive impact on the European telecommunication market", Deutsche Telekom said.
"In traditional RAN, the networks are deployed using fully integrated cell sites, where the radios, hardware and software are provided by a single supplier as a closed proprietary solution. Mobile operators are today re-evaluating the way their networks are deployed," the German firm added.
Open RAN allows networks to be deployed and operated using varied components from different suppliers, Deutsche Telekom added.
The four European telecommunications giants have signed a memorandum of understanding and will work with industry bodies such as O-RAN ALLIANCE and Telecom Infra Project.
Telefonica's Chief Technology & Information Officer Enrique Blanco said: "This is an extraordinary opportunity for the European industry not only to promote the development of 5G but also to participate in its sustainable technological development.
Vodafone's technology chief Johan Wibergh said open RAN can "stimulate European tech innovation".
Wibergh added: "We remain committed to rolling out our Open RAN program across Europe, and we’re taking it even further. We aim to open R&D labs for new, smaller suppliers to develop their products. But to do this we need a supportive investment environment and political backing, and we urge European governments to join us in creating the Open RAN ecosystem."
In Frankfurt on Wednesday morning, Deutsche Telekom shares were marginally higher at EUR15.07 each. Vodafone's stock was slightly higher at 127.06 pence in London and Orange was up 0.2% at EUR9.68 in Paris. In Madrid, Telefonica shares were down 0.2% at EUR3.74.
By Eric Cunha; ericcunha@alliancenews.com
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