RAN Intelligent Controller Market Analysis

RAN Intelligent Controller Market Analysis

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Based on the component, the market is divided into platforms and services. In 2023, the platforms segment accounted market share of over 76%. The emergence of cloud-native solutions for enhanced scalability and agility is boosting segment growth. There is a growing focus on integrating AI and ML capabilities to enable predictive analytics and self-optimization. Open RAN initiatives are driving interoperability, fostering vendor diversification, and promoting innovation in platform offerings. For instance, in December 2023, Vodafone, Intel, and Cirrus360 teamed up to launch a new computer language platform for Open RAN, powered by ML. This framework seeks to provide intent-based autonomous mobile network automation by bridging the language gap between humans and machines, allowing for seamless communication across network operators, engineers, and AI systems. ML in Open RAN and wireless networks is an emerging R&D topic, with potential applications in network optimization, automation, and data analytics.
 

Based on function, the market is categorized into non-real-time (non-RT) and near-RT. In 2023, the non-RT RAN intelligent controller segment held market share of over 60% and is projected to grow significantly till 2032. Non-RT RAN intelligent controllers are witnessing improvements in virtualization technologies for better flexibility and resource optimization. There is a growing emphasis on network slicing capabilities to support diverse service requirements. The integration of AI and automation is enhancing network efficiency and performance in non-RT applications. For instance, in September 2023, Deutsche Telekom conducted trials to demonstrate the potential of multi-vendor non-RT RAN intelligent controllers and third-party applications (rApps) in automating and optimizing open RANs. The trial successfully demonstrated closed-loop optimization through use cases involving Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) optimization and energy.
 

North America dominated the global RAN intelligent controller market with a major share of over 33% in 2023. The region sees a surge in cloud-native deployments for scalability and agility. Regulatory initiatives promoting spectrum availability and open standards contribute to market growth. Additionally, strategic partnerships between telecom operators and technology vendors facilitate innovation and accelerate the adoption of RAN intelligent controllers. For instance, in March 2023, Nokia and AT&T tested the Open RAN-compatible near RT RAN intelligent controller with a native E2 interface, which uses enhanced intelligence. The testing was carried out on Nokia's commercial near real-time RAN intelligent controller platform, operating on Nokia AirScale base stations connected to AT&T's network. This platform integrates a new intelligence layer into the RAN, allowing AI/ML-based optimization techniques to dynamically optimize RAN performance.