Viettel Pioneers World's First 5G Open RAN Network with Qualcomm Chipsets
Hanoi, Wednesday, 13 November 2024.
Viettel has launched the world’s first commercial 5G Open RAN network using Qualcomm chipsets, marking a significant milestone in telecommunications. Set to deploy over 300 sites across Vietnam by early 2025, this innovation promises enhanced network flexibility and reduced infrastructure costs, potentially reshaping the global telecom landscape.
A Technological Leap Forward
Viettel’s announcement at the ‘5G Open RAN Connect 2024’ event has created significant buzz across the telecommunications industry. Utilizing Qualcomm’s advanced chipset platforms, this development is a testament to Viettel’s innovative capabilities and commitment to expanding technological frontiers. The Open RAN (O-RAN) framework is designed to increase flexibility and efficiency by allowing network operators to use hardware and software from different vendors, which reduces dependency on single-source suppliers. This collaborative approach not only enhances competition but also drives down costs, making 5G more accessible and sustainable[1][2].
The Implications of Open RAN
The global telecom sector is witnessing a paradigm shift with the introduction of Open RAN technology. This model allows multiple partners to participate in developing 5G telecom equipment, fostering innovation and reducing infrastructure investment costs by enabling interoperability among different vendors’ components. For Viettel, this means setting a precedent as one of the first operators to deploy Open RAN at scale, potentially influencing global technology trends. The company plans to expand its network to thousands of sites, aiming for both domestic and international reach starting in early 2025[3][4].
Expert Opinions and Industry Impact
Industry leaders have praised Viettel’s initiative as a transformative step forward. Julian Gorman from GSMA highlighted that Open RAN presents significant opportunities for accelerating network innovation and enhancing competition in the mobile industry. Qualcomm’s Senior Vice President, Durga Malladi, emphasized the milestone as a reflection of their commitment to driving innovation in telecommunications and delivering an enhanced 5G experience. These endorsements underscore the strategic importance of this launch in setting new standards within the telecommunications ecosystem[1][5].
Future Prospects and Strategic Goals
Looking ahead, Viettel and Qualcomm’s collaboration is poised to extend beyond 5G, venturing into the domains of 6G, Artificial Intelligence, and Extended Reality. This strategic partnership aims to enhance Viettel’s technological capabilities, positioning Vietnam as a key player in the global telecom market. Viettel’s extensive deployment of Open RAN technology is not only a step towards technological self-reliance but also a move to improve global connectivity standards. By 2025, the company plans to celebrate its successful collaboration with the United States, which is expected to introduce advanced technologies and digital transformation opportunities across Vietnam[6][7].