Batelco (Bahrain Telecommunication Company) has authenticated an Open Radio Access Network (RAN) MoU (Memorandum of Understanding), focussed on augmenting momentum for the technology and its solutions in the territory, alongside other pioneering Middle East Operators.
As per the leading telecommunications firm in Bahrain, the other signatories to the Memorandum of Understanding are Saudi Telecom Company STC, Etisalat Group, Zain Group, du (from Emirates Integrate Telecommunications Company), Mobily, and Omantel.
The Memorandum of Understanding betwixt the seven operators delivers to confirm their joint commitment to organise Open Radio Access Network throughout their footprint. Thus, it augments a prospect to traditional Radio Access Network vendors to inculcate open software, hardware, and interfaces that will underpin the fabrication of more agile and flexible mobile networks in the 4G and 5G epoch.
The introduction of open RAN, virtualisation and automation will allow a fundamental transformation in how operators manage networks and deliver services, stated the Bahrain-headquartered telecommunication firm.
According to the pact, the foremost Open Radio Access Network centralised test laboratory is set up in the Middle Eastern territory, with Telecom Infra Project (TIP) and Intel. The laboratory will serve as a medium for the parties to work together on accomplishing their mutual goal of installing open and united technologies into their networks. Thus, the lab will assist in achieving the ever-maturing demand for high bandwidth, inhibited latency, and advanced connectivity that can deliver the best online experience to business enterprises and consumers alike.
Batelco indicated that the operators strategise to establish a clear path to steer innovation for the ICT industry throughout the Middle East whilst navigating cost-effectiveness and consumer mobile experience via sharing industry knowledge and expertise. In addition, the laboratory will deliver shared facilities and accessibility to the most innovative Intel technologies for members and vendors and offer to catalyse Open Radio Access Network installations.
Rashid Mohamed, Batelco General Manager Networks, stated that the partnership and reflection on Open Radio Access Network was a breakthrough for the telecom ecosystem in the Middle East. Mohamed indicated that the collaboration would fabricate a more competitive and solid supply chain, resulting in quicker 5G installation, network efficiencies, prospects for new tech vendors, and unbolt progressive services for consumers.
The Middle East Memorandum of Understanding and the European Memorandum of Understanding have similar aims. The European Memorandum of Understanding is authenticated by five European telecommunication firms – Orange, Telefonica, Deutsche Telekom, TIM, and Vodafone. Rashid Mohamed stated that these regional collaborations on Open Radio Access Network are vital to steer the success of the technology and realise its ultimate potential.
About Batelco
Batelco is one of the pioneering digital solutions providers within the Kingdom of Bahrain. The firm strives to commit its objectives towards augmenting consumer experience constantly.
Batelco delivers to consumer and corporate markets via cutting-edge fixed and wireless telecom solutions. Its complete portfolio of solutions for Bahrain’s residential, business, and government sectors include all IP fixed and 4G LTE wireless Broadband networks and MPLS centric data solutions.
The firm’s digitisation and connectivity aim resonate with those of the Kingdom of Bahrain to change how businesses function alongside transforming the lives of residents, allowing everyone to connect, work, and live better via the delivery of tech products and solutions. With a prevailing commitment to roll out Smart City and Smart Home digital solutions, Batelco plays a critical role in Bahrain’s prosperity and expansion.
Batelco also plays an essential role in underpinning its regional communities and contributes yearly to education, health, cultural, and sports initiatives.