In 2020, Samsung signed a deal with Verizon to provide the US-based network operator with 5G vRAN solutions and help the carrier establish its 5G network in the country. Thanks to Samsung, Verizon had over 8,000 operational vRAN sites in the US by August 2022. The two brands have now achieved a new milestone. The South Korean firm has announced that it has deployed over 10,000 vRAN sites for Verizon and aims to reach the carrier’s goal of deploying 20,000 vRAN sites by 2025.
According to Samsung Networks, its vRAN solution “allows operators to perform network functions and deliver services that were not possible, or at least not as easy, with a traditional RAN.” It further stated in a press release, “our vRAN is O-RAN compliant, able to run 2G, 4G, and 5G networks, and is capable of operating 4G and 5G simultaneously. Virtualised RAN is eco-friendly, allowing for reduced power consumption by turning down or off the energy needed on antennas, amplifiers, and cell sites.“
Earlier this month, Verizon announced that it now offers 5G UW (Ultra Wideband) service to more than 175 million people in the US. The company aims to offer nationwide 5G Ultra Wideband by Q1 2023.
While Verizon is working with Samsung to achieve its 5G coverage goal, the company has also partnered with Ericsson for 5G vRAN solutions (referred to as Ericsson Cloud RAN). On Thursday, the network operator announced that it had deployed the first Ericsson vRAN cell site in the US.
