Cellwize Wireless (Cellwize), a global leader in mobile network automation and orchestration, on Tuesday announced the launch of its CHIME-Hybrid service management orchestration (SMO) solution, giving mobile network operators (MNOs) the tools to manage and operate in the hybrid ORAN era, as they introduce ORAN capabilities into their networks.
For several years, the world has been talking about the benefits of ORAN. However, deployments have not yet been fully implemented for various reasons, including security issues and lack of knowledge and skill set. The move to ORAN is not binary; it is a step-by-step process that will include increased virtualized RAN (vRAN) capabilities, while gradually introducing ORAN elements. The CHIME-Hybrid solution allows MNOs to streamline this transition with a backward and forward compatible solution.
CHIME-Hybrid brings MNOs a broad ecosystem of strategic partners, including data driven decision makers via artificial intelligence and machine learning, increased automation, programmability, OPEX reduction and advanced use cases such as network slicing. It contains backward and forward compatibility and SMO capabilities alongside self-development for non-RT RIC features. Therefore, it allows mobile operators to start small and continue building their ORAN infrastructure, while enjoying the benefits of OPEX reduction, open innovation, and an ecosystem of vendors. The solution offers full legacy support for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G networks, and uses Intel’s FlexRAN software and AI capabilities to enable faster vRAN deployment and new services through open interfaces.
Ofir Zemer, CEO, Cellwize
We observed that MNOs were struggling to move to full Open RAN networks and were confused about how to start the transition. Cellwize is proud to offer this solution that enables clients to gradually make the move to Open RAN at the right pace for them. Mobile operators can now benefit from both vRAN and ORAN capabilities until the entire RAN network will be open, which is still far in the future.
Stephen Spellicy, VP of Product Marketing and Business Development, Service Provider & Edge, VMware
When it comes to RAN transformation, we must meet service providers where they are and design solutions that move them forward without disrupting business operations and overhauling network design. VMware and Cellwize are working together to deliver solutions that automate RAN configuration, optimization and remediation.
