TIM is preparing to become the first Italian operator — and one of the early adopters in Europe — to roll out OpenRAN (Open Radio Access Network) solutions.
OpenRAN allows network operators to mix and match interoperable hardware and software from multiple vendors. By avoiding vendor lock-in, operators gain flexibility to select equipment that best balances cost, performance and operational needs.
In February, TIM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with several major European operators to promote OpenRAN technology. The agreement aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced capabilities such as 5G, edge computing and cloud-native architectures.
The Italian city of Faenza — located in Ravenna province, Emilia-Romagna, about 50 kilometres southeast of Bologna — will be the first site to deploy this open network model.
The deployment is being carried out in partnership with JMA Wireless, a US-based vendor that specialises in OpenRAN solutions.
For the Faenza rollout, TIM will deploy a 4G radio node that pairs JMA Wireless’s software-based baseband with radio units supplied by Microelectronics Technology.
The initiative is planned to expand to include 5G solutions in future phases, enabling a path to more advanced mobile services and network capabilities.
Elsewhere in Europe, operators are also advancing OpenRAN. Earlier this month, Vodafone announced a new UK research and development centre focused on OpenRAN and committed to deploying OpenRAN across thousands of mobile sites as part of its broader network modernisation efforts.
(Photo by Jonathan Bean on Unsplash)
Interested in hearing industry leaders discuss topics like this? Consider attending co-located events such as 5G Expo, IoT Tech Expo, Blockchain Expo, AI & Big Data Expo, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo, which take place at locations including Silicon Valley, London and Amsterdam.