Posted On 13-09-2025

• Rapid 5G Rollouts: Major telecom operators such as Verizon and AT&T are aggressively expanding their 5G infrastructure across metropolitan and rural regions. Their investment in advanced Massive MIMO, beamforming, and open-RAN solutions is fueling robust demand for RAN equipment. For instance, Verizon announced in February 2024 the deployment of 100,000 new 5G cell sites to boost ultra-fast connectivity, aiming to support IoT proliferation and low-latency applications, thereby expanding the customer base and improving network efficiency.
• Increased Edge Computing Integration: Companies like T-Mobile US have prioritized edge computing within their RAN architectures to meet real-time data processing needs. This integration allows network operators to deliver high-bandwidth services and minimizes network congestion, which is essential for latency-sensitive applications such as autonomous vehicles and smart manufacturing. The rising trend of Industry 4.0 and connected devices is propelling RAN modernization and expansion.

• Open RAN (O-RAN) Adoption: Leading operators such as Dish Network and AT&T are investing in open and interoperable RAN architectures. In April 2024, AT&T collaborated with Ericsson to implement an O-RAN compliant platform, allowing multi-vendor equipment integration, cost reduction, and flexibility. This trend is disrupting the US RAN landscape by enabling innovation, lowering entry barriers, and promoting ecosystem diversity.
• Virtualized Radio Access Networks (vRAN): The transition toward virtualizing network functions is gaining momentum, with players like Nokia partnering with US carriers for large-scale vRAN deployments. In March 2024, Nokia reported the rollout of software-based RAN solutions that can run on general-purpose processors, optimizing hardware utilization and simplifying network operations, which accelerates 5G expansion and paves the way for future 6G upgrades.

• Private 5G Networks for Enterprises: The rise of private 5G networks offers a lucrative opportunity for RAN providers, as organizations from sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare seek tailored, secure, and high-performance wireless connectivity. Cisco’s launch of end-to-end private 5G solutions in March 2024 positions vendors to cater to enterprise digital transformation needs.
• Expansion in Underserved Rural Areas: Federal and state-led funding, such as the FCC’s Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, is creating opportunities for RAN vendors to deploy network infrastructure in underserved areas, increasing service coverage and reducing the digital divide. Companies like Ericsson are leveraging government incentives to accelerate rural broadband projects.

• In June 2024, AT&T and Ericsson announced the initiation of the first fully automated Open RAN deployment at scale in the United States. This project, covering over 15 urban centers nationwide, is accelerating multi-vendor ecosystem integration and operational cost reduction. The rollout marks a pivotal leap forward in standardization efforts and underlines the US’s leadership in next-generation wireless infrastructure.
• In April 2024, T-Mobile US unveiled its successful edge-based 5G architecture trial in Dallas, Texas, designed to support real-time processing for augmented reality (AR) and industrial IoT applications. This deployment demonstrates the potential of edge computing combined with advanced RAN solutions to deliver ultra-reliable, low-latency wireless services in enterprise environments and urban mobility ecosystems.
• In March 2024, Cisco announced its partnership with several regional carriers to offer turnkey private 5G solutions tailored for critical infrastructure sectors. The initiative leverages Cisco’s expertise in security and networking and is expected to fuel adoption of private RAN among utilities, transport, and healthcare organizations, helping to unlock new revenue streams and improve operational resilience.