AT&T has announced a plan to move 70% of its wireless network traffic onto open-capable platforms by late 2026. This transition marks a major shift away from proprietary, closed interfaces toward an open, programmable radio access network (RAN) that supports faster scaling and a broader range of hardware suppliers at each cell site.
Beginning as early as 2024, AT&T will work with Ericsson and Fujitsu to begin integrating Open RAN sites across its network. The company intends to scale the open RAN environment more broadly from 2025 onward, collaborating with suppliers that include Corning Incorporated, Dell Technologies, Ericsson, Fujitsu, and Intel.
This multiyear partnership with Ericsson is timed to coincide with a crucial phase of 5G innovation. By embracing open, cloud-native, and programmable network architectures, AT&T expects to accelerate modernization, enable new services, and make the network more adaptable to future demands.
Ericsson’s open architecture is expected to spur developer-driven innovation by providing open interfaces and programmable building blocks. That openness aims to increase competition in the U.S. wireless equipment market, encourage new solutions, and support faster deployment of advanced features.
AT&T anticipates that a more competitive RAN market will drive innovation and operational efficiencies. Open architectures can reduce power consumption and support more sustainable networks, while also improving network performance and overall user experience.
Adopting Open RAN alongside open hardware, migration to cloud RAN, and the introduction of third-party radios will give AT&T greater flexibility when selecting equipment, help lower network costs, and improve operational efficiency through standardized, interoperable components.
Chris Sambar, Executive Vice President of AT&T Network, said:
“AT&T is taking the lead in open platform sourcing in our wireless network. With this collaboration, we will open up radio access networks, drive innovation, spur competition and connect more Americans with 5G and fibre.
We are pleased that Ericsson shares our support for Open RAN and the possibilities this creates for American digital infrastructure.”
Under the agreement, Ericsson will manufacture 5G equipment at its USA 5G Smart Factory in Texas, aligning with Build America, Buy America provisions and supporting domestic production.
Börje Ekholm, President and CEO of Ericsson, commented:
“High-performance and differentiated networks will be the foundation for the next step in digitalisation. I am excited about this future and happy to see our long-term partner, AT&T, choosing Ericsson for this strategic industry shift—moving to open, cloud-based and programmable networks.
Through this shift, and with open interfaces and open APIs, the industry will see new performance-based business models, creating new ways for operators to monetise the network. We are truly proud to be partnering with AT&T in the industrialisation of Open RAN and help accelerate digital transformation in the US.”
As one of the largest infrastructure investors in the United States, AT&T views its Open RAN commitment as a key element of a broader strategy to deliver seamless connectivity. The company aims to expand its fibre footprint while developing a modern, competitive wireless network that can support growing demand for high-speed mobile services.
(Photo by Rubaitul Azad on Unsplash)
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