LG Uplus has demonstrated core Open RAN technology, an essential element of next-generation networks.

LG Uplus announced that it has successfully demonstrated the 'RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC)' software platform, a core technology of Open-RAN, together with Qualcomm Technology, Inc.

Previously, it was necessary to adopt the hardware and software of wireless access networks supplied by a single telecommunications equipment manufacturer, whereas applying Open RAN technology separates hardware and software, allowing the combination of standard equipment supplied by different manufacturers.

Intelligent Base Station Controllers (RICs) are considered essential for providing customized services to customers by enabling large-scale traffic management and network slicing. It is expected that if telecommunications companies operate RICs, they can implement necessary functions such as AI and machine learning by installing applications like smartphones according to their purpose, and contribute to network monetization.

To this end, LG Uplus has been jointly verifying the performance and stability of Qualcomm's Edgewise™ RIC solution at the LG Uplus Magok building and Qualcomm Labs since last year. This solution is based on AI and can detect real-time traffic conditions and automatically calculate parameters optimized for them.

LG Uplus stated, “We have also confirmed that telecommunications companies can directly perform base station performance improvement work using RIC,” adding, “Through this verification process, we confirmed the differentiated availability of the RIC software platform even before the widespread adoption of Open RAN.”

In addition, LG Uplus predicted, “Through this verification, it could serve as a foundation for creating future growth opportunities for domestic small and medium-sized software suppliers in the base station software market, which is dominated by global equipment manufacturers.”

Lim Jun-woo, Executive Vice President of Business Development at Qualcomm CDMA Technologies Korea, said, “Qualcomm has a deep interest in the efficiency and advancement of network deployment for mobile operators, and Qualcomm’s Edgewise solution enables the construction of hybrid RAN networks utilizing various types of base stations regardless of the manufacturer,” adding, “This collaboration with LG Uplus will serve as a foundation for building an intelligent network ecosystem.”

Lee Sang-heon, Head of Network Advanced Development at LG Uplus, said, “It is meaningful to be able to verify Qualcomm’s base station intelligent controller software platform technology, which is a core technological element for the construction and operation of open base stations,” adding, “I hope this will serve as a milestone in building a new base station software ecosystem in Korea and providing differentiated customer value in the future.”