U.S. Cellular Joins O-RAN ALLIANCE to Support 5G Network Innovation

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--U.S. Cellular (NYSE: USM) today announced that it has joined the O-RAN ALLIANCE, uniting with technology companies around the globe working to drive new levels of openness in the Radio Access Network (RAN) of next-generation wireless systems. As U.S. Cellular continues its multi-year plan to deploy 5G throughout its footprint, open RAN architecture can help accelerate delivery of advanced 5G capabilities to customers.

“We are committed to driving innovation and bringing the latest technology to our customers that enhances their wireless experience, and we can do that faster and more efficiently with an open, intelligent and interoperable RAN that in turn promotes a diverse vendor community and open-market competition,” said Narothum Saxena, vice president of advanced technology and systems planning at U.S. Cellular.

Jeff Baenke, vice president of technology development at U.S. Cellular added, “We are excited to join the O-RAN ALLIANCE and contribute to the standardization of critical interfaces. This ALLIANCE is instrumental to enabling innovation in a multi-vendor network.”

The O-RAN ALLIANCE is a world-wide community of more than 190 mobile operators, vendors, and research & academic institutions operating in the RAN industry. As the RAN is an essential part of any mobile network, O-RAN ALLIANCE’s mission is to re-shape the industry towards more intelligent, open, virtualized and fully interoperable mobile networks.

About U.S. Cellular

U.S. Cellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.