United Group’s Vivacom to trial Parallel Wireless ORAN technologies in Bulgaria

US-based Parallel Wireless is a provider of ORAN technology that encapsulates all generations of cellular connectivity, including 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G. The trial in Bulgaria will include ORAN 2G, 4G, and 5G and will include a cluster of sites that demonstrates the successful implantation of ORAN networks in both urban and rural environments. The purpose of the trial is to show equivalent or improved performance compared to traditional radio access networks (SRAN). The trial will consist of both lab and in-field tests to ensure the technology can perform across Bulgaria and on Vivacom’s existing network.

“ORAN brings opportunities for greater vendor diversity and much-needed innovation in the mobile radio network sector,” said Nikolay Andreev, CEO of Vivacom. “This technology will provide flexibility and competitiveness for operators, and improved services for customers. We hope this trial will be the first step in delivering ORAN technology to Bulgaria.”

Until recently, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) had to rely on vendors to supply the full RAN infrastructure, including hardware and software. ORAN disaggregates hardware and software components, which grants MNOs flexibility to build their networks using non-proprietary subcomponents from a variety of different vendors.

“Bulgaria is a great place to showcase the benefits of ORAN demonstrating its flexibility and agility, allowing United Group & Vivacom the freedom to choose its vendors without being locked in with one specific vendor,” said Steve Papa, Founder & CEO of Parallel Wireless.