U.S. Cellular Joins Open RAN Policy Coalition

U.S. Cellular, the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, has joined the Open RAN Policy Coalition, reinforcing its commitment to spurring innovation and bringing 5G connectivity to urban and rural areas across the country.

As part of this group, U.S. Cellular will help promote policies that allow new technologies to thrive, while ensuring interoperability and security with a diverse group of suppliers to deliver high-quality network service to customers.

“We are a strong proponent of open and interoperable network systems, and we are excited to work with industry partners on the advantages that an open Radio Access Network (RAN) can bring to 5G deployments and other emerging technologies. It fosters innovation and promotes healthy competition,” said Narothum Saxena, vice president of advanced technology and systems planning at U.S. Cellular. “The work this group is doing has the opportunity to enhance the way wireless networks are built and operated, helping to ensure high-speed connectivity for more people, no matter where they live.”

Grant Spellmeyer, vice president of federal affairs and public policy at U.S. Cellular added, “Working with companies from around the globe as part of this coalition provides us a unique opportunity to educate legislators and help shape policies that allow for faster deployment of new technologies, especially to people and businesses in rural areas.”

Earlier this year, U.S. Cellular deployed 5G technology to customers in both urban and rural communities in Iowa and Wisconsin. The company is on a multi-year path to rapidly bring 5G to as many customers as possible, with new markets on track to be introduced later in 2020.

The Open RAN Policy Coalition is a group of companies formed to promote policies that will advance the adoption of open and interoperable solutions in the RAN, as a means to create innovation, spur competition and expand the supply chain for advanced wireless technologies including 5G.