Nokia has introduced a next-generation Cloud RAN (Radio Access Network) solution designed to help operators deliver on 5G’s promises and accelerate commercial returns.
The Finnish telecommunications company says the new offering will enable operators to monetize 5G services more effectively, support flexible end-to-end network slicing, and fully leverage Internet of Things (IoT) opportunities.
Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said:
“The next-generation Nokia 5G AirScale Cloud RAN is a true innovation that will transform mobile networks and provide operators with the flexibility they need to meet customer demands in the evolving 5G era.
Its flexible architecture offers speed, coverage, capacity and low latency as well as the opportunity to generate revenues immediately.”
The solution is built around vRAN 2.0 and introduces a virtualized Distributed Unit (vDU) running on x86-based servers with Level-1 hardware acceleration, alongside a Fronthaul Gateway that eases migration from legacy infrastructures.
Nokia reports successful trials of 5G data calls in a complete end-to-end setup that included its Cloud Packet Core, 5G AirScale Cloud in vRAN 2.0 configuration, the Nokia Fronthaul Gateway, and a commercial 5G device.
Rather than forcing costly, time-consuming rip-and-replace upgrades, Nokia designed the solution to reuse existing assets where possible. For example, the Fronthaul Gateway lets operators transition CPRI-based radios to eCPRI-based AirScale 5G Cloud RAN, reducing disruption and investment needs.
Flexibility is a central feature of the design: the vDU can be deployed in multiple ways to match operator needs. It can run in centralized clouds, edge or far-edge facilities, or even directly at the cell site.
By allowing the vDU to move closer to users and devices, Nokia’s approach aims to unlock true 5G benefits such as ultra-low latency and increased reliability—capabilities that open up new use cases in industrial IoT, autonomous systems, and other latency-sensitive applications.
Ed Gubbins, Principal Analyst at GlobalData, commented:
“Cloud RAN has the potential to fundamentally transform mobile networks, making them more agile and dynamic and allowing operators to be more nimble in activating new services and revenue streams.
Nokia has been more proactive and consistent in driving Cloud RAN technology than its peers, and the launch of its fully cloudified 5G AirScale Cloud RAN solution is only the latest example of its commitment.”
Nokia says the 5G AirScale Cloud RAN will be made commercially available this year, with broader general availability expected in 2021 pending continued successful trials.
Interested in hearing industry leaders discuss subjects like this? Attend co-located industry expos covering 5G, IoT, blockchain, AI & Big Data, and cybersecurity & cloud at upcoming events in Silicon Valley, London, and Amsterdam.