NOW Telecom Co., Inc. has partnered with Rakuten Symphony to establish a framework for the pilot deployment of fifth-generation (5G) open radio access network (RAN) in the Philippines.
“Our partnership with Rakuten, the force behind Japan’s 4th mobile operator and a key player in launching Germany’s newest mobile network, signifies a pivotal moment for Now Telecom,” Mel V. Velarde, Now Corp. chairman, said in a stock exchange disclosure on Tuesday.
“This collaboration is instrumental in our mission to unveil a secured 5G network in the Philippines,” he added.
Now Telecom is an affiliate of listed Now Corp., which has business operations in telecommunications, media, and technology.
In their signed memorandum of understanding, the two companies aim to develop network disaggregation and open interfaces, which will enable them to build a customized network.
Open RAN solutions help promote interoperability and reduce the cost of 5G infrastructure while also expanding the reach of internet connectivity to underserved regions.
“Under the terms of the agreement, Rakuten Symphony and NOW will collaborate with the aim of developing disaggregated networks and open interfaces in the Southeast Asian country,” Now Telecom said.
Rakuten Symphony is a unit of the Japanese financial technology company Rakuten Group, Inc. It is a business-to-business services provider for the mobile telco industry.
The two companies aim to develop 5G and all related information and communications technology solutions for Now Telecom’s network.
“We look forward to bringing Rakuten Symphony’s expertise in Open RAN solutions and digital services to support Now Telecom’s 5G Open RAN ambitions,” said Sharad Sriwastawa, president Rakuten Symphony. — Ashley Erika O. Jose
