SON (Self-Organizing Networks) in the 5G & Open RAN Era: 2022 – 2030 – Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts

$2500$3500

This report presents a detailed assessment of the SON (Self-Organizing Networks) market, including the value chain, market drivers, barriers to uptake, enabling technologies, functional areas, use cases, key trends, future roadmap, standardization, case studies, ecosystem player profiles and strategies.

Description

Self-Organizing Networks in the 5G & Open RAN Era

SON (Self-Organizing Network) technology minimizes the lifecycle cost of running a mobile network by eliminating manual configuration of network elements at the time of deployment right through to dynamic optimization and troubleshooting during operation. Besides improving network performance and customer experience, SON can significantly reduce the cost of mobile operator services, improving the OpEx-to-revenue ratio and deferring avoidable CapEx.

Early adopters of SON have already witnessed a multitude of benefits in the form of accelerated 5G NR and LTE RAN (Radio Access Network) rollout times, simplified network upgrades, fewer dropped calls, improved call setup success rates, higher end user throughput, alleviation of congestion during special events, increased subscriber satisfaction and loyalty, operational efficiencies such as energy and cost savings, and freeing up radio engineers from repetitive manual tasks.

Although SON was originally developed as an operational approach to streamline and automate cellular RAN deployment and optimization, mobile operators and vendors are increasingly focusing on integrating new capabilities such as self-protection against digital security threats and self-learning through AI (Artificial Intelligence) techniques, as well as extending the scope of SON beyond the RAN to include both mobile core and transport network segments – which will be critical to address 5G requirements such as end-to-end network slicing.

In addition, with the cellular industry’s ongoing shift towards open interfaces, virtualization and software-driven networking, the SON ecosystem is progressively transitioning from the traditional D-SON (Distributed SON) and C-SON (Centralized SON) approach to open standards-based components supporting RAN programmability for advanced automation and intelligent control.

The surging popularity of innovative Open RAN and vRAN (Virtualized RAN) architectures has reignited the traditionally niche and proprietary product-driven SON market with a host of open standards-compliant RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller), xApp and rApp offerings, which are capable of supporting both near real-time D-SON and non real-time C-SON capabilities for RAN automation and optimization needs.

This report estimates that global spending on RIC platforms, xApps and rApps will reach $120 Million in 2023 as initial implementations move from field trials to production-grade deployments. With commercial maturity, the submarket is further expected to quintuple to nearly $600 Million by the end of 2025. Annual investments in the wider SON market – which includes licensing of embedded D-SON features, third party C-SON functions and associated OSS platforms, in-house SON capabilities internally developed by mobile operators, and SON-related professional services across the RAN, mobile core and transport domains – are expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 7% during the same period.

The “SON (Self-Organizing Networks) in the 5G & Open RAN Era: 2022 – 2030 – Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies & Forecasts” report presents a detailed assessment of the SON market, including the value chain, market drivers, barriers to uptake, enabling technologies, functional areas, use cases, key trends, future roadmap, standardization, case studies, ecosystem player profiles and strategies. The report also provides global and regional market size forecasts for both SON and conventional mobile network optimization from 2022 till 2030, including submarket projections for three network segments, six SON architecture categories, four access technologies and five regional submarkets.

The report comes with an associated Excel datasheet suite covering quantitative data from all numeric forecasts presented in the report.

Topics Covered

The report covers the following topics:
– Introduction to SON
– Value chain and ecosystem structure
– Market drivers and challenges
– SON technology, architecture and functional areas
– D-SON (Distributed SON), C-SON (Centralized SON), H-SON (Hybrid SON), RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller), xApps and rApps
– Review of over 40 SON use cases across the RAN, core and transport domains, ranging from ANR (Automatic Neighbor Relations) and rapid equipment configuration to advanced traffic steering, QoE-based optimization and automated anomaly detection
– Key trends in next-generation 5G SON implementations, including Open RAN and vRAN (Virtualized RAN) architectures, dynamic spectrum management, network slicing, edge computing, Big Data, advanced analytics, AI (Artificial Intelligence)/ML (Machine Learning) and zero-touch automation
– Case studies of 20 commercial-scale SON deployments and examination of ongoing projects covering both traditional D-SON/C-SON and RIC-x/rApp approaches
– Future roadmap for the SON market
– Standardization, regulatory and collaborative initiatives
– Profiles and strategies of more than 230 ecosystem players
– Strategic recommendations for SON solution providers and mobile operators
– Market analysis and forecasts from 2022 till 2030

Forecast Segmentation

Market forecasts are provided for each of the following submarkets and their subcategories:

SON & Mobile Network Optimization
– SON
– Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization

SON Network Segment Submarkets
– RAN (Radio Access Network)
– Mobile Core
– Transport (Fronthaul, Midhaul & Backhaul)

RAN Segment SON Architecture Submarkets
– Traditional D-SON & C-SON
○ Embedded D-SON (Distributed SON) Features
○ Third Party C-SON (Centralized SON) & OSS Platforms
– Open RAN RIC, xApps & rApps
○ RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller) Platforms
○ Near Real-Time xApps
○ Non Real-Time rApps
– Mobile Operators’ In-House SON Tools & Systems

SON Access Network Technology Submarkets
– 2G & 3G
– LTE
– 5G NR
– Wi-Fi & Others

Regional Markets
– North America
– Asia Pacific
– Europe
– Middle East & Africa
– Latin & Central America

Key Questions Answered

The report provides answers to the following key questions:
– How big is the SON opportunity?
– What trends, drivers and challenges are influencing its growth?
– What will the market size be in 2025, and at what rate will it grow?
– Which submarkets and regions will see the highest percentage of growth?
– How do SON investments compare with spending on conventional mobile network optimization?
– What are the practical, quantifiable benefits of SON – based on live, commercial deployments?
– How can mobile operators capitalize on SON to ensure optimal network performance, improve customer experience, reduce costs, and drive revenue growth?
– What is the status of D-SON and C-SON adoption worldwide?
– When will open standards-based RIC platforms, xApps and rApps replace the traditional SON approach?
– What are the prospects of AI/ML-driven automation in the SON market?
– What opportunities exist for SON capabilities in the mobile core and transport network domains?
– How can SON ease the deployment of private 4G/5G networks for enterprises and vertical industries?
– In what way will SON facilitate network slicing and other advanced 5G capabilities?
– How does SON impact mobile network optimization engineers?
– Who are the key ecosystem players, and what are their strategies?
– What strategies should SON solution providers and mobile operators adopt to remain competitive?

Key Findings

The report has the following key findings:
– The surging popularity of innovative Open RAN and vRAN (Virtualized RAN) architectures has reignited the traditionally niche and proprietary product-driven SON market with a host of open standards-compliant RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller), xApp and rApp offerings, which are capable of supporting both near real-time D-SON and non real-time C-SON capabilities for RAN automation and optimization needs.
– The report estimates that global spending on RIC platforms, xApps and rApps will reach $120 Million in 2023 as initial implementations move from field trials to production-grade deployments. With commercial maturity, the submarket is further expected to quintuple to nearly $600 Million by the end of 2025.
– Annual investments in the wider SON market – which includes licensing of embedded D-SON features, third party C-SON functions and associated OSS platforms, in-house SON capabilities internally developed by mobile operators, and SON-related professional services across the RAN, mobile core and transport domains – are expected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 7% during the same period.
– The third party SON vendor ecosystem is exhibiting signs of consolidation, with several prominent M&A deals such as Qualcomm’s recent acquisition of C-SON specialist Cellwize – in a bid to strengthen its 5G RAN infrastructure offerings, Elisa Automate’s merger with Polystar to form Elisa Polystar, and HCL’s acquisition of Cisco’s SON technology business.
– However, on the other hand, newer suppliers are also beginning to emerge – extending from VMware, Juniper Networks and other RIC platform providers to x/rApp specialists such as Cohere Technologies, DeepSig, Groundhog Technologies, Subex, B-Yond, Net AI and RIMEDO Labs.
– SON capabilities are playing a pivotal role in the ongoing proliferation of private 4G/5G networks, as evident from a growing number of cross-sector partnerships. For example, private wireless service provider Betacom is collaborating with Qualcomm to accelerate enterprise adoption of private 5G networks by  combining the former’s 5GaaS (5G-as-a-Service) offering with the latter’s enablement ecosystem, including the Cellwize RAN automation and management platform. Similarly, Germany-based systems integrator Opticoms has entered into a partnership with SON specialist Innovile to automate and optimize Open RAN standards-compliant private 5G networks.
– Over the last two years, with the steep rise of mobile data consumption in residential areas during the COVID-19 pandemic-imposed lockdowns, mobile operators – despite coping relatively well – have recognized the importance of a more dynamic and automated approach to the optimization of network assets in order to provide a consistent and seamless user experience.
– The 2020-2022 period saw large-scale C-SON deployments by several operators, including but not limited to Verizon, EE (BT Group), Orange, Telefónica, Turkcell, beCloud (Belarusian Cloud Technologies), VEON, Ooredoo, Zain, BTC (Botswana Telecommunications Corporation), LTT (Libya Telecom & Technology), Telstra, Singtel, Telkomsel, Globe Telecom, Smart Communications (PLDT), and Telecom Argentina.

Additional information

Publisher

Format

Pages

Date Published

Table of Contents

Table of Contents Page Number
1 Chapter 1: Introduction 21
1.1 Executive Summary 21
1.2 Topics Covered 24
1.3 Forecast Segmentation 25
1.4 Key Questions Answered 26
1.5 Key Findings 27
1.6 Methodology 29
1.7 Target Audience 30
1.8 Companies & Organizations Mentioned 31
2 Chapter 2: SON & Mobile Network Optimization Ecosystem 33
2.1 Conventional Mobile Network Optimization 33
2.1.1 Network Planning 33
2.1.2 Measurement Collection: Drive Tests, Probes & End User Data 34
2.1.3 Post-Processing, Optimization & Policy Enforcement 34
2.2 The SON (Self-Organizing Network) Concept 35
2.2.1 What is SON? 35
2.2.2 The Need for SON 35
2.3 Functional Areas of SON 36
2.3.1 Self-Configuration 37
2.3.2 Self-Optimization 37
2.3.3 Self-Healing 37
2.3.4 Self-Protection 38
2.3.5 Self-Learning 38
2.4 SON Value Chain 39
2.4.1 SON, xApp/rApp & Automation Specialists 39
2.4.2 OSS & RIC Platform Providers 40
2.4.3 RAN, Core & Transport Network Equipment Suppliers 40
2.4.4 Wireless Service Providers 40
2.4.4.1 National Mobile Operators 40
2.4.4.2 Fixed-Line Service Providers 41
2.4.4.3 Private 4G/5G Network Operators 41
2.4.4.4 Neutral Hosts 41
2.4.5 End Users 42
2.4.5.1 Consumers 42
2.4.5.2 Enterprises & Vertical Industries 42
2.4.6 Other Ecosystem Players 42
2.5 Market Drivers 43
2.5.1 The 5G & Open RAN Era: Continued Infrastructure Investments 43
2.5.2 Optimization in Complex Multi-RAN Environments 43
2.5.3 OpEx & CapEx Reduction: The Cost Savings Potential 44
2.5.4 Improving Subscriber Experience & Churn Reduction 44
2.5.5 Power Savings: Towards Greener Mobile Networks 45
2.5.6 Alleviating Congestion With Traffic Management 45
2.5.7 Enabling Plug & Play Deployment of Small Cells 45
2.5.8 Growing Adoption of Private 4G/5G Networks 46
2.6 Market Barriers 46
2.6.1 Complexity of Implementation 46
2.6.2 Reorganization & Changes to Standard Engineering Procedures 46
2.6.3 Lack of Trust in Automation 46
2.6.4 Proprietary SON Algorithms 47
2.6.5 Coordination Between Distributed & Centralized SON 47
2.6.6 Network Security Concerns: New Interfaces & Lack of Monitoring 47
3 Chapter 3: SON Technology, Implementation Architectures & Use Cases 48
3.1 Where Does SON Sit Within a Mobile Network? 48
3.1.1 RAN 49
3.1.2 Mobile Core 49
3.1.3 Transport (Fronthaul, Midhaul & Backhaul) 50
3.1.4 Device-Assisted SON 51
3.2 Traditional SON Architecture 52
3.2.1 D-SON (Distributed SON) 52
3.2.2 C-SON (Centralized SON) 53
3.2.3 H-SON (Hybrid SON) 54
3.3 Open Standards-Compliant RIC, xApps & rApps 55
3.3.1 RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller) 55
3.3.1.1 Near-RT (Real-Time) RIC 56
3.3.1.2 Non-RT (Real-Time) RIC 56
3.3.2 xApps: Open D-SON Applications 56
3.3.3 rApps: Open C-SON Applications 57
3.4 SON Use Cases 57
3.4.1 RAN-Centric Use Cases 57
3.4.1.1 ANR (Automatic Neighbor Relations) 57
3.4.1.2 CNR (Centralized Neighbor Relations) 57
3.4.1.3 PCI (Physical Cell ID) Allocation & Conflict Resolution 57
3.4.1.4 CCO (Coverage & Capacity Optimization) 58
3.4.1.5 MRO (Mobility Robustness Optimization) 58
3.4.1.6 MLB (Mobility Load Balancing) 58
3.4.1.7 RACH (Random Access Channel) Optimization 59
3.4.1.8 ICIC (Inter-Cell Interference Coordination) & eICIC (Enhanced ICIC) 59
3.4.1.9 COD/COC (Cell Outage Detection & Compensation) 60
3.4.1.10 MDT (Minimization of Drive Tests) 60
3.4.1.11 Advanced Traffic Steering 60
3.4.1.12 Automated Anomaly Detection 61
3.4.1.13 Massive MIMO & Beamforming Optimization 61
3.4.1.14 4G-5G Dual Connectivity Management 61
3.4.1.15 RAN Slice Management 61
3.4.1.16 DSS (Dynamic Spectrum Sharing) 62
3.4.1.17 Frequency Layer Management 62
3.4.1.18 BBU (Baseband Unit) Resource Pooling 62
3.4.1.19 Radio Resource Allocation for Complex Vertical Applications 62
3.4.1.20 Handover Management in V2X Communications Scenarios 62
3.4.1.21 Rapid Plug & Play Configuration of Small Cells 63
3.4.1.22 DAS (Distributed Antenna System) Optimization 63
3.4.2 Multi-Domain, Core & Transport-Related Use Cases 63
3.4.2.1 Self-Configuration & Testing of Network Elements 63
3.4.2.2 Domain Connectivity Management 64
3.4.2.3 Automated Inventory Checks 64
3.4.2.4 AIC (Automated Inconsistency Correction) 64
3.4.2.5 Self-Healing of Network Faults 64
3.4.2.6 Signaling Storm Protection 65
3.4.2.7 Energy Efficiency & Savings 65
3.4.2.8 QoS & QoE-Based Optimization 65
3.4.2.9 Congestion Prediction & Management 66
3.4.2.10 AI-Enabled Performance Diagnostics 66
3.4.2.11 Industrial IoT Optimization 66
3.4.2.12 Core Network Automation 66
3.4.2.13 Network Slicing Resource Allocation 67
3.4.2.14 Optimization of VNFs & CNFs 67
3.4.2.15 Auto-Provisioning of Transport Links 67
3.4.2.16 Transport Network Bandwidth Optimization 67
3.4.2.17 Wireless Transport Interference Management 68
3.4.2.18 Seamless Vendor Infrastructure Swap 68
3.4.2.19 SON Coordination Management 68
3.4.2.20 Cognitive & Self-Learning Networks 68
4 Chapter 4: Key Trends in Next-Generation SON Implementations 69
4.1 Open RAN & vRAN (Virtualized RAN) Architectures 69
4.1.1 Enabling RAN Automation & Intelligence With RIC, xApps & rApps 70
4.2 Small Cells, HetNets & RAN Densification 70
4.2.1 Plug & Play Small Cells 70
4.2.2 SON-Enabled Coordination of UDNs (Ultra-Dense Networks) 71
4.3 Shared & Unlicensed Spectrum 72
4.3.1 Dynamic Management of Spectrum Using SON 74
4.4 MEC (Multi-Access Edge Computing) 75
4.4.1 Potential Synergies With SON 75
4.5 Network Slicing 76
4.5.1 SON Mechanisms for Network Slicing in 5G Networks 77
4.6 Big Data & Advanced Analytics 77
4.6.1 Maximizing the Benefits of SON With Big Data 78
4.6.2 The Importance of Predictive & Behavioral Analytics 78
4.7 AI (Artificial Intelligence) & ML (Machine Learning) 79
4.7.1 Towards Self-Learning SON Engines 79
4.7.2 Deep Learning: Enabling Zero-Touch Mobile Networks 80
4.8 NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) 80
4.8.1 Enabling SON-Driven Deployment of VNFs & CNFs 81
4.9 SDN (Software-Defined Networking) & Programmability 82
4.9.1 Using the SDN Controller as a Platform for SON in Transport Networks 82
4.10 Cloud Computing 83
4.10.1 Facilitating C-SON Scalability & Elasticity 83
4.11 Other Trends & Complementary Technologies 83
4.11.1 Private 4G/5G Networks 83
4.11.2 FWA (Fixed Wireless Access) 84
4.11.3 DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) 85
4.11.4 Digital Security for Self-Protection 86
4.11.5 SON Capabilities for IoT Applications 86
4.11.6 User-Based Profiling & Optimization for Vertical 5G Applications 87
4.11.7 Addressing D2D (Device-to-Device) Communications & New Use Cases 87
5 Chapter 5: Standardization, Regulatory & Collaborative Initiatives 88
5.1 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) 88
5.1.1 3GPP Standardization of SON Capabilities 88
5.1.2 LTE SON Features 89
5.1.2.1 Release 8 89
5.1.2.2 Release 9 89
5.1.2.3 Release 10 89
5.1.2.4 Release 11 90
5.1.2.5 Release 12 91
5.1.2.6 Releases 13 & 14 91
5.1.3 5G NR SON Features 91
5.1.3.1 Release 15 91
5.1.3.2 Release 16 92
5.1.3.3 Release 17 92
5.1.3.4 Release 18 & Beyond 92
5.1.4 Implementation Approach for 3GPP-Specified SON Features 92
5.2 O-RAN Alliance 93
5.2.1 Open RAN RIC Architecture Specifications 93
5.2.2 xApp & rApp Use Cases 94
5.3 OSA (OpenAirInterface Software Alliance) 94
5.3.1 M5G (MOSAIC5G) Project: Flexible RAN & Core Controllers 94
5.4 TIP (Telecom Infra Project) 95
5.4.1 RIA (RAN Intelligence & Automation) Project 95
5.5 ONF (Open Networking Foundation) 96
5.5.1 SD-RAN Project: Near Real-Time RIC & Exemplar xApps 96
5.6 Linux Foundation’s ONAP (Open Network Automation Platform) 97
5.6.1 OOF (ONAP Optimization Framework)-SON for 5G Networks 97
5.6.2 Interface Support for Open RAN RIC Integration 97
5.7 SCF (Small Cell Forum) 98
5.7.1 4G/5G Small Cell SON & Orchestration 98
5.8 OSSii (Operations Support Systems Interoperability Initiative) 98
5.8.1 Enabling Multi-Vendor SON Interoperability 99
5.9 NGMN Alliance 99
5.9.1 Conception of the SON Initiative 99
5.9.2 Recommendations for Multi-Vendor SON Deployment 101
5.9.3 SON Capabilities for 5G Network Deployment, Operation & Management 101
5.10 Others 102
6 Chapter 6: SON Deployment Case Studies 104
6.1 AT&T 104
6.1.1 Vendor Selection 104
6.1.2 SON Deployment Review 105
6.1.3 Results & Future Plans 106
6.2 Bell Canada 108
6.2.1 Vendor Selection 108
6.2.2 SON Deployment Review 108
6.2.3 Results & Future Plans 109
6.3 Bharti Airtel 110
6.3.1 Vendor Selection 110
6.3.2 SON Deployment Review 110
6.3.3 Results & Future Plans 111
6.4 BT Group 112
6.4.1 Vendor Selection 112
6.4.2 SON Deployment Review 112
6.4.3 Results & Future Plans 113
6.5 China Mobile 114
6.5.1 Vendor Selection 114
6.5.2 SON Deployment Review 114
6.5.3 Results & Future Plans 115
6.6 Elisa 116
6.6.1 Vendor Selection 116
6.6.2 SON Deployment Review 116
6.6.3 Results & Future Plans 118
6.7 Globe Telecom 119
6.7.1 Vendor Selection 119
6.7.2 SON Deployment Review 119
6.7.3 Results & Future Plans 120
6.8 KDDI Corporation 121
6.8.1 Vendor Selection 121
6.8.2 SON Deployment Review 121
6.8.3 Results & Future Plans 122
6.9 MegaFon 124
6.9.1 Vendor Selection 124
6.9.2 SON Deployment Review 124
6.9.3 Results & Future Plans 125
6.10 NTT DoCoMo 127
6.10.1 Vendor Selection 127
6.10.2 SON Deployment Review 127
6.10.3 Results & Future Plans 128
6.11 Ooredoo 129
6.11.1 Vendor Selection 129
6.11.2 SON Deployment Review 129
6.11.3 Results & Future Plans 130
6.12 Orange 131
6.12.1 Vendor Selection 131
6.12.2 SON Deployment Review 132
6.12.3 Results & Future Plans 132
6.13 Singtel 134
6.13.1 Vendor Selection 134
6.13.2 SON Deployment Review 134
6.13.3 Results & Future Plans 135
6.14 SK Telecom 136
6.14.1 Vendor Selection 136
6.14.2 SON Deployment Review 137
6.14.3 Results & Future Plans 139
6.15 Telecom Argentina 140
6.15.1 Vendor Selection 140
6.15.2 SON Deployment Review 140
6.15.3 Results & Future Plans 141
6.16 Telefónica Group 142
6.16.1 Vendor Selection 142
6.16.2 SON Deployment Review 142
6.16.3 Results & Future Plans 144
6.17 TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile) 146
6.17.1 Vendor Selection 146
6.17.2 SON Deployment Review 146
6.17.3 Results & Future Plans 148
6.18 Turkcell 149
6.18.1 Vendor Selection 149
6.18.2 SON Deployment Review 149
6.18.3 Results & Future Plans 150
6.19 Verizon Communications 151
6.19.1 Vendor Selection 151
6.19.2 SON Deployment Review 151
6.19.3 Results & Future Plans 152
6.20 Vodafone Group 154
6.20.1 Vendor Selection 154
6.20.2 SON Deployment Review 154
6.20.3 Results & Future Plans 156
6.21 Other Recent Deployments & Ongoing Projects 158
6.21.1 beCloud (Belarusian Cloud Technologies): AI-Enabled Network Automation & Performance Management 158
6.21.2 Beeline Russia: Transforming the Mobile Experience Using C-SON Technology 158
6.21.3 Betacom: Accelerating Enterprise Private 5G Adoption With RAN Automation 159
6.21.4 BTC (Botswana Telecommunications Corporation): SON for Nationwide Network Optimization 159
6.21.5 Celona: Self-Organizing 5G LAN Solution for Enterprises 159
6.21.6 América Móvil: Accelerating 5G Rollouts Through SON-Based Automation 158
6.21.7 DISH Network Corporation: RIC-Based Custom RAN Programmability & Intelligence 159
6.21.8 DT (Deutsche Telekom): Berlin SD-RAN 4G/5G Outdoor Field Trial 160
6.21.9 KPN: SON-Driven Automation for Network Optimization 160
6.21.10 Kyivstar: Leveraging C-SON to Enhance Network Performance 160
6.21.11 Liberty Global: Building a Customer-First Network 161
6.21.12 LTT (Libya Telecom & Technology): Nationwide RAN Automation 161
6.21.13 NEC Corporation: Self-Learning Local 5G Networks 161
6.21.14 Opticoms: Optimizing Open RAN-Compliant Private 5G Networks 161
6.21.15 Rakuten Mobile: Embedded RIC for RAN Automation Applications 161
6.21.16 Smart Communications (PLDT): Enabling Multi-Vendor 4G/5G Network Automation 162
6.21.17 Smartfren: Facilitating Network Densification & HetNet Management With C-SON Technology 162
6.21.18 STC (Saudi Telecom Company): Automating Network Operations & Driving 5G Transformation 162
6.21.19 Telkomsel: SON-Enabled Automated Network Optimization 163
6.21.20 Telstra: Boosting Mobile Network Automation 163
6.21.21 Zain Group: SON for Performance Enhancement 163
7 Chapter 7: Key Ecosystem Players 164
7.1 Aarna Networks 164
7.2 Abside Networks 165
7.3 Accedian 166
7.4 Accelleran 167
7.5 Accuver (InnoWireless) 168
7.6 Actiontec Electronics 169
7.7 AI-LINK 170
7.8 AirHop Communications 171
7.9 Airspan Networks 172
7.10 AiVader 173
7.11 Aliniant 174
7.12 Allot 175
7.13 Alpha Networks 176
7.14 Altiostar (Rakuten Symphony) 177
7.15 Amazon/AWS (Amazon Web Services) 178
7.16 Amdocs 179
7.17 Anktion (Fujian) Technology 180
7.18 Anritsu 181
7.19 Arcadyan Technology Corporation (Compal Electronics) 182
7.20 Argela 183
7.21 Aria Networks 184
7.22 ArrayComm (Chengdu ArrayComm Wireless Technologies) 185
7.23 Artemis Networks 186
7.24 Artiza Networks 187
7.25 Arukona 188
7.26 Askey Computer Corporation (ASUS – ASUSTeK Computer) 189
7.27 ASOCS 190
7.28 Aspire Technology (NEC Corporation) 191
7.29 ASTRI (Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute) 192
7.30 ATDI 193
7.31 Atesio 194
7.32 Atrinet 195
7.33 Aurora Insight 196
7.34 Aviat Networks 197
7.35 Azcom Technology 199
7.36 Baicells 200
7.37 BandwidthX 201
7.38 BLiNQ Networks (CCI – Communication Components Inc.) 202
7.39 Blu Wireless 203
7.40 Blue Danube Systems (NEC Corporation) 204
7.41 BTI Wireless 205
7.42 B-Yond 206
7.43 CableFree (Wireless Excellence) 207
7.44 Cambium Networks 208
7.45 Capgemini Engineering 209
7.46 Casa Systems 210
7.47 CBNG (Cambridge Broadband Networks Group) 211
7.48 CCS – Cambridge Communication Systems (ADTRAN) 212
7.49 Celfinet (Cyient) 213
7.50 CellOnyx 214
7.51 Cellwize (Qualcomm) 215
7.52 CelPlan Technologies 216
7.53 CGI 217
7.54 Chengdu NTS 218
7.55 CICT – China Information and Communication Technology Group (China Xinke Group) 219
7.56 Ciena Corporation 220
7.57 CIG (Cambridge Industries Group) 221
7.58 Cisco Systems 222
7.59 Cohere Technologies 223
7.60 Comarch 224
7.61 Comba Telecom 225
7.62 CommAgility (Wireless Telecom Group) 226
7.63 CommScope 227
7.64 COMSovereign 228
7.65 Contela 230
7.66 Continual 231
7.67 Corning 232
7.68 Creanord 233
7.69 DeepSig 234
7.70 Dell Technologies 235
7.71 DGS (Digital Global Systems) 236
7.72 Digitata 237
7.73 D-Link Corporation 238
7.74 DZS 239
7.75 ECE (European Communications Engineering) 240
7.76 EDX Wireless 241
7.77 eino 242
7.78 Elisa Polystar 243
7.79 Equiendo 244
7.80 Ericsson 245
7.81 Errigal 247
7.82 ETRI (Electronics & Telecommunications Research Institute, South Korea) 248
7.83 EXFO 249
7.84 Fairspectrum 250
7.85 Federated Wireless 251
7.86 Flash Networks 252
7.87 Forsk 253
7.88 Foxconn (Hon Hai Technology Group) 254
7.89 Fraunhofer HHI (Heinrich Hertz Institute) 255
7.90 Fujitsu 256
7.91 Gemtek Technology 257
7.92 GENEViSiO (QNAP Systems) 258
7.93 GenXComm 259
7.94 Gigamon 260
7.95 GigaTera Communications (KMW) 261
7.96 Google (Alphabet) 262
7.97 Groundhog Technologies 263
7.98 Guavus (Thales) 264
7.99 HCL Technologies 265
7.100 Helios (Fujian Helios Technologies) 266
7.101 HFR Networks 267
7.102 Highstreet Technologies 268
7.103 Hitachi 269
7.104 HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise) 270
7.105 HSC (Hughes Systique Corporation) 271
7.106 Huawei 272
7.107 iBwave Solutions 274
7.108 iConNext 275
7.109 Infinera 276
7.110 Infosys 277
7.111 InfoVista 278
7.112 Inmanta 279
7.113 Innovile 280
7.114 InnoWireless 281
7.115 Intel Corporation 282
7.116 InterDigital 283
7.117 Intracom Telecom 284
7.118 Inventec Corporation 285
7.119 ISCO International 286
7.120 IS-Wireless 287
7.121 ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute, Taiwan) 288
7.122 JMA Wireless 289
7.123 JRC (Japan Radio Company) 290
7.124 Juniper Networks 291
7.125 Key Bridge Wireless 292
7.126 Keysight Technologies 293
7.127 Kleos 294
7.128 KMW 295
7.129 Kumu Networks 296
7.130 Lemko Corporation 297
7.131 Lenovo 298
7.132 Lextrum (COMSovereign) 299
7.133 Lime Microsystems 300
7.134 LIONS Technology 301
7.135 LITE-ON Technology Corporation 302
7.136 LS telcom 303
7.137 LuxCarta 304
7.138 MantisNet 305
7.139 Marvell Technology 306
7.140 Mavenir 307
7.141 Meta Connectivity 309
7.142 MicroNova 310
7.143 Microsoft Corporation 311
7.144 MikroTik 312
7.145 MitraStar Technology (Unizyx Holding Corporation) 313
7.146 MYCOM OSI (Amdocs) 314
7.147 Nash Technologies 315
7.148 NEC Corporation 316
7.149 Net AI 318
7.150 Netcracker Technology (NEC Corporation) 319
7.151 NETSCOUT Systems 320
7.152 Netsia (Argela) 321
7.153 New H3C Technologies (Tsinghua Unigroup) 322
7.154 New Postcom Equipment 323
7.155 Nextivity 324
7.156 Node-H 325
7.157 Nokia 326
7.158 NuRAN Wireless 328
7.159 NXP Semiconductors 329
7.160 Oceus Networks 330
7.161 Omnitele 331
7.162 Opanga Networks 332
7.163 Openet (Amdocs) 333
7.164 P.I. Works 334
7.165 Parallel Wireless 335
7.166 Phluido 336
7.167 Picocom 337
7.168 Pivotal Commware 338
7.169 Polte 339
7.170 Potevio (CETC – China Electronics Technology Group Corporation) 340
7.171 Qualcomm 341
7.172 Quanta Computer 342
7.173 Qucell Networks (InnoWireless) 343
7.174 RADCOM 344
7.175 Radisys (Reliance Industries) 345
7.176 Rakuten Symphony 346
7.177 Ranplan Wireless 347
7.178 Red Hat (IBM) 348
7.179 RED Technologies 349
7.180 RIMEDO Labs 350
7.181 Rivada Networks 351
7.182 Rohde & Schwarz 352
7.183 Ruijie Networks 353
7.184 RunEL 354
7.185 SageRAN (Guangzhou SageRAN Technology) 355
7.186 Saguna Networks (COMSovereign) 356
7.187 Samji Electronics 357
7.188 Samsung 358
7.189 Sandvine 360
7.190 Sercomm Corporation 361
7.191 Signalwing 362
7.192 Siklu 363
7.193 SIRADEL 364
7.194 Skyvera (TelcoDR) 365
7.195 SOLiD 366
7.196 Sooktha 367
7.197 Spectrum Effect 368
7.198 SSC (Shared Spectrum Company) 369
7.199 Star Solutions 370
7.200 STL (Sterlite Technologies Ltd.) 371
7.201 Subex 372
7.202 Sunwave Communications 373
7.203 Systemics-PAB 374
7.204 T&W (Shenzhen Gongjin Electronics) 375
7.205 Tarana Wireless 376
7.206 TCS (Tata Consultancy Services) 377
7.207 Tech Mahindra 378
7.208 Tecore Networks 379
7.209 Telrad Networks 380
7.210 TEOCO 381
7.211 ThinkRF 382
7.212 TI (Texas Instruments) 383
7.213 TietoEVRY 384
7.214 Trópico (CPQD – Center for Research and Development in Telecommunications, Brazil) 385
7.215 TTG International 386
7.216 Tupl 387
7.217 ULAK Communication 388
7.218 Vavitel (Shenzhen Vavitel Technology) 389
7.219 VHT (Viettel High Tech) 390
7.220 VIAVI Solutions 391
7.221 VMware 392
7.222 VNC – Virtual NetCom (COMSovereign) 393
7.223 VNL – Vihaan Networks Limited (Shyam Group) 394
7.224 WDNA (Wireless DNA) 395
7.225 WebRadar 396
7.226 Wind River Systems 397
7.227 Wipro 398
7.228 Wiwynn (Wistron Corporation) 399
7.229 WNC (Wistron NeWeb Corporation) 400
7.230 XCOM Labs 401
7.231 Xingtera 402
7.232 ZaiNar 403
7.233 Z-Com 404
7.234 Zeetta Networks 405
7.235 ZTE 406
7.236 Zyxel (Unizyx Holding Corporation) 408
8 Chapter 8: Market Sizing & Forecasts 409
8.1 SON & Mobile Network Optimization Revenue 409
8.2 SON Revenue 410
8.3 SON Revenue by Network Segment 410
8.3.1 RAN 411
8.3.2 Mobile Core 411
8.3.3 Transport (Fronthaul, Midhaul & Backhaul) 412
8.4 RAN Segment SON Revenue by Architecture: Traditional SON vs. Open RAN RIC, xApps & rApps 412
8.4.1 Traditional D-SON & C-SON 413
8.4.1.1 Embedded D-SON Features 413
8.4.1.2 Third Party C-SON & OSS Platforms 414
8.4.2 Open RAN RIC, xApps & rApps 414
8.4.2.1 RIC Platforms 415
8.4.2.2 Near Real-Time xApps 415
8.4.2.3 Non Real-Time rApps 416
8.4.3 Mobile Operators’ In-House SON Tools & Systems 416
8.5 SON Revenue by Access Network Technology 417
8.5.1 2G & 3G 417
8.5.2 LTE 418
8.5.3 5G NR 418
8.5.4 Wi-Fi & Others 419
8.6 SON Revenue by Region 419
8.7 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue 420
8.8 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue by Region 420
8.9 North America 421
8.9.1 SON 421
8.9.2 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization 421
8.10 Asia Pacific 422
8.10.1 SON 422
8.10.2 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization 422
8.11 Europe 423
8.11.1 SON 423
8.11.2 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization 423
8.12 Middle East & Africa 424
8.12.1 SON 424
8.12.2 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization 424
8.13 Latin & Central America 425
8.13.1 SON 425
8.13.2 Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization 425
9 Chapter 9: Conclusion & Strategic Recommendations 426
9.1 Why is the Market Poised to Grow? 426
9.2 Future Roadmap: 2022 – 2030 427
9.2.1 2022 – 2025: Transition From Traditional SON to RIC Platforms, xApps & rApps 427
9.2.2 2026 – 2029: Commercial Maturity of Advanced AI/ML-Based SON Implementations 428
9.2.3 2030 & Beyond: Towards Zero-Touch 5G & 6G Network Automation 429
9.3 Competitive Industry Landscape: Acquisitions, Alliances & Consolidation 429
9.4 The C-SON Versus D-SON Debate 430
9.5 Evaluating the Practical Benefits of SON 431
9.6 Prospects of Open RAN Standards-Compliant RIC Platforms, xApps & rApps 432
9.7 End-to-End SON: From the RAN to the Core & Transport Domains 433
9.8 Growing Adoption of SON Capabilities for Wi-Fi & Non-3GPP Access Technologies 433
9.9 The Importance of AI & ML-Driven SON Algorithms 434
9.10 Improving End User Experience With QoE-Based Optimization 436
9.11 Enabling Network Slicing & Advanced 5G Capabilities 436
9.12 Greater Focus on Self-Protection 438
9.13 Addressing IoT Optimization 438
9.14 Managing Shared & Unlicensed Spectrum 439
9.15 Easing the Deployment of Private 4G/5G Networks 440
9.16 Assessing the Impact of SON on Optimization & Field Engineers 440
9.17 Strategic Recommendations 441
9.17.1 SON Solution Providers 441
9.17.2 Mobile Operators 442
List of Figures
Figure 1: Functional Areas of SON Within the Mobile Network Lifecycle 36
Figure 2: SON Value Chain 39
Figure 3: SON Associated OpEx & CapEx Savings by Network Segment (%) 44
Figure 4: Potential Areas of SON Implementation 48
Figure 5: Mobile Fronthaul, Midhaul & Backhaul Technologies 50
Figure 6: D-SON (Distributed SON) in a Mobile Network 52
Figure 7: C-SON (Centralized SON) in a Mobile Network 53
Figure 8: H-SON (Hybrid SON) in a Mobile Network 54
Figure 9: RIC (RAN Intelligent Controller) Functional Architecture 55
Figure 10: Transition to UDNs (Ultra-Dense Networks) 71
Figure 11: Conceptual Architecture for End-to-End Network Slicing in Mobile Networks 76
Figure 12: NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) Concept 81
Figure 13: Comparison Between DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) & Shallow Packet Inspection 85
Figure 14: O-RAN Architecture 93
Figure 15: OSA’s M5G (MOSAIC5G) Stack 95
Figure 16: ONF’s SD-RAN Project 96
Figure 17: NGNM SON Use Cases 100
Figure 18: AT&T’s SON Implementation 105
Figure 19: Elisa’s In-House SON Solution 117
Figure 20: KDDI’s AI-Assisted Automated Network Operation System 123
Figure 21: NTT DoCoMo’s Intelligent RAN Roadmap 128
Figure 22: Orange’s Vision for Cognitive PBSM (Policy-Based SON Management) 133
Figure 23: SK Telecom’s Fast Data Platform for QoE-Based Automatic Network Optimization 137
Figure 24: Telefónica’s SON Deployment Roadmap From 4G To 5G Rollouts 143
Figure 25: TIM’s Open SON Architecture 147
Figure 26: Global SON & Mobile Network Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 409
Figure 27: Global SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 410
Figure 28: Global SON Revenue by Network Segment: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 410
Figure 29: Global SON Revenue in the RAN Segment: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 411
Figure 30: Global SON Revenue in the Mobile Core Segment: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 411
Figure 31: Global SON Revenue in the Transport (Fronthaul, Midhaul & Backhaul) Segment: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 412
Figure 32: Global RAN Segment SON Revenue by Architecture: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 412
Figure 33: Global RAN Segment Traditional D-SON & C-SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 413
Figure 34: Global RAN Segment Embedded D-SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 413
Figure 35: Global RAN Segment Third Party C-SON & OSS Platforms Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 414
Figure 36: Global Open RAN RIC, xApps & rApps Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 414
Figure 37: Global RIC Platforms Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 415
Figure 38: Global Near Real-Time xApps Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 415
Figure 39: Global Non Real-Time rApps Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 416
Figure 40: Global Mobile Operators’ In-House SON Tools & Systems Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 416
Figure 41: Global SON Revenue by Access Network Technology: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 417
Figure 42: Global 2G & 3G SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 417
Figure 43: Global LTE SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 418
Figure 44: Global 5G NR SON Revenue: 2020 – 2030 ($ Million) 418
Figure 45: Global Wi-Fi & Other Access Technology SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 419
Figure 46: SON Revenue by Region: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 419
Figure 47: Global Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 420
Figure 48: Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue by Region: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 420
Figure 49: North America SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 421
Figure 50: North America Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 421
Figure 51: Asia Pacific SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 422
Figure 52: Asia Pacific Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 422
Figure 53: Europe SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 423
Figure 54: Europe Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 423
Figure 55: Middle East & Africa SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 424
Figure 56: Middle East & Africa Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 424
Figure 57: Latin & Central America SON Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 425
Figure 58: Latin & Central America Conventional Mobile Network Planning & Optimization Revenue: 2022 – 2030 ($ Million) 425
Figure 59: SON Future Roadmap: 2022 – 2030 427
Figure 60: Global Spending on RIC Platforms, xApps & rApps: 2023 – 2025 ($ Million) 432

Company Mentioned

List of Companies Mentioned
3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project)
Aarna Networks
Abside Networks
Accedian
Accelleran
Accuver
Actiontec Electronics
ADTRAN
AI-LINK
AirHop Communications
Airspan Networks
AiVader
Aliniant
Allot
Alpha Networks
Alphabet
Altiostar
Amazon
Amdocs
América Móvil
Anktion (Fujian) Technology
Anritsu
Arcadyan Technology Corporation
Argela
Aria Networks
ARIB (Association of Radio Industries and Businesses, Japan)
ArrayComm (Chengdu ArrayComm Wireless Technologies)
Artemis Networks
Artiza Networks
Arukona
Askey Computer Corporation
ASOCS
Aspire Technology
ASTRI (Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute)
ASUS (ASUSTeK Computer)
AT&T
ATDI
Atesio
ATIS (Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions)
Atrinet
Aurora Insight
Aviat Networks
AWS (Amazon Web Services)
Azcom Technology
Baicells
BandwidthX
beCloud (Belarusian Cloud Technologies)
Beeline Russia
Bell Canada
Betacom
Bharti Airtel
BLiNQ Networks
Blu Wireless
Blue Danube Systems
BT Group
BTC (Botswana Telecommunications Corporation)
BTI Wireless
B-Yond
CableFree (Wireless Excellence)
CableLabs
Cambium Networks
Capgemini Engineering
Casa Systems
CBNG (Cambridge Broadband Networks Group)
CCI (Communication Components Inc.)
CCS (Cambridge Communication Systems)
CCSA (China Communications Standards Association)
Celfinet (Cyient)
CellOnyx
Cellwize
Celona
CelPlan Technologies
CETC (China Electronics Technology Group Corporation)
CGI
Chengdu NTS
China Mobile
CICT – China Information and Communication Technology Group (China Xinke Group)
Ciena Corporation
CIG (Cambridge Industries Group)
Cisco Systems
Claro Colombia
Cohere Technologies
Comarch
Comba Telecom
CommAgility
CommScope
Compal Electronics
COMSovereign
Contela
Continual
Corning
CPQD (Center for Research and Development in Telecommunications, Brazil)
Creanord
Datang Telecom Technology & Industry Group
DeepSig
Dell Technologies
DGS (Digital Global Systems)
Digitata
DISH Network Corporation
D-Link Corporation
DSA (Dynamic Spectrum Alliance)
DT (Deutsche Telekom)
DZS
ECE (European Communications Engineering)
EDX Wireless
EE
eino
Elisa
Elisa Polystar
Equiendo
Ericsson
Errigal
ETRI (Electronics & Telecommunications Research Institute, South Korea)
ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute)
EXFO
Fairspectrum
Federated Wireless
FiberHome Technologies
Flash Networks
Forsk
Foxconn (Hon Hai Technology Group)
Fraunhofer HHI (Heinrich Hertz Institute)
Fujitsu
Gemtek Technology
GENEViSiO
GenXComm
Gigamon
GigaTera Communications
Globe Telecom
Google
Groundhog Technologies
Guavus
HCL Technologies
Helios (Fujian Helios Technologies)
HFR Networks
Highstreet Technologies
Hitachi
Hitachi Kokusai Electric
Hitachi Vantara
HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise)
HSC (Hughes Systique Corporation)
Huawei
IBM
iBwave Solutions
iConNext
Infinera
Infosys
InfoVista
Inmanta
Innovile
InnoWireless
Intel Corporation
InterDigital
Intracom Telecom
Inventec Corporation
ISCO International
IS-Wireless
ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute, Taiwan)
JMA Wireless
JRC (Japan Radio Company)
Juniper Networks
KDDI Corporation
Key Bridge Wireless
Keysight Technologies
Kleos
KMW
KPN
Kumu Networks
Kuzey Kıbrıs Turkcell
Kyivstar
Lemko Corporation
Lenovo
Lextrum
Liberty Global
life:)/BeST (Belarusian Telecommunications Network)
lifecell Ukraine
Lime Microsystems
Linux Foundation
LIONS Technology
LITE-ON Technology Corporation
LS telcom
LTT (Libya Telecom & Technology)
LuxCarta
MantisNet
Marvell Technology
Mavenir
MegaFon
Meta Connectivity
MicroNova
Microsoft Corporation
MikroTik
MitraStar Technology
MYCOM OSI
Nash Technologies
NEC Corporation
Net AI
Netcracker Technology
NETSCOUT Systems
Netsia
New H3C Technologies
New Postcom Equipment
Nextivity
NGMN Alliance
Node-H
Nokia
NTT DoCoMo
NuRAN Wireless
Nutaq Innovation
NXP Semiconductors
Oceus Networks
Omnitele
ONF (Open Networking Foundation)
OnGo Alliance
Ooredoo
Ooredoo Algeria
Ooredoo Tunisia
Opanga Networks
Openet
Opticoms
Optus (Singtel)
O-RAN Alliance
Orange
Orange Spain
OSA (OpenAirInterface Software Alliance)
P.I. Works
Parallel Wireless
Phluido
Picocom
Pivotal Commware
PLDT
Polte
Potevio
QNAP Systems
Qualcomm
Quanta Computer
Qucell Networks
RADCOM
Radisys
Rakuten Mobile
Rakuten Symphony
Ranplan Wireless
Red Hat
RED Technologies
Redline Communications
Reliance Industries
RIMEDO Labs
Rivada Networks
Rohde & Schwarz
Ruijie Networks
RunEL
SageRAN (Guangzhou SageRAN Technology)
Saguna Networks
Samji Electronics
Samsung
Sandvine
SCF (Small Cell Forum)
Sercomm Corporation
Shyam Group
Signalwing
Siklu
Singtel
SIRADEL
SK Telecom
Skyvera (TelcoDR)
Smart Communications
Smartfren
SOLiD
Sooktha
Spectrum Effect
SSC (Shared Spectrum Company)
Star Solutions
STC (Saudi Telecom Company)
STL (Sterlite Technologies Ltd.)
Subex
Sunwave Communications
Systemics-PAB
T&W (Shenzhen Gongjin Electronics)
Tarana Wireless
TCS (Tata Consultancy Services)
Tech Mahindra
Tecore Networks
Telecom Argentina
Telefónica Germany
Telefónica Group
Telkomsel
Telrad Networks
Telstra
TEOCO
Thales
ThinkRF
TI (Texas Instruments)
TietoEVRY
TIM (Telecom Italia Mobile)
TIM Brasil
TIP (Telecom Infra Project)
TPG Telecom
Trópico
TSDSI (Telecommunications Standards Development Society, India)
Tsinghua Unigroup
TTA (Telecommunications Technology Association, South Korea)
TTC (Telecommunication Technology Committee, Japan)
TTG International
Tupl
Turkcell
ULAK Communication
Unizyx Holding Corporation
Vasona Networks
Vavitel (Shenzhen Vavitel Technology)
Verizon Communications
VEON
VHT (Viettel High Tech)
Vi (Vodafone Idea)
VIAVI Solutions
Virgin Media O2
VMware
VNC (Virtual NetCom)
VNL (Vihaan Networks Limited)
Vodafone Germany
Vodafone Group
Vodafone Ireland
Vodafone Italy
Vodafone Türkiye
WBA (Wireless Broadband Alliance)
WDNA (Wireless DNA)
WebRadar
Wind River Systems
WInnForum (Wireless Innovation Forum)
Wipro
Wireless Telecom Group
Wistron Corporation
Wiwynn
WNC (Wistron NeWeb Corporation)
XCOM Labs
Xingtera
Zain Group
Zain Saudi Arabia (Zain KSA)
ZaiNar
Z-Com
Zeetta Networks
ZTE
Zyxel