VIAVI, AT&T and Verizon Announce Collaboration to Accelerate Testing of Open RAN

Core Insights - VIAVI Solutions Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with AT&T and Verizon to enhance Open RAN testing initiatives through the VALOR™ project, aimed at promoting the adoption of open and interoperable network components [1][3] - The collaboration is supported by the U.S. National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, focusing on strengthening global supply chain resiliency and lowering barriers for new entrants in the Open RAN market [1][4] Group 1: Partnership and Collaboration - VIAVI will provide ACCoRD labs at Iowa State University and Rutgers University with the NITRO® Wireless Open RAN Test Suite, along with the VIAVI Automation Management and Orchestration System (VAMOS) [2] - An additional lab at the University of Texas at Dallas will receive equipment and services in 2026 to ensure sustainability of ACCoRD test services beyond the grant period [2] Group 2: Industry Impact and Statements - AT&T emphasizes its commitment to technological innovation and network performance, stating that the collaboration will enhance Open RAN initiatives and benefit stakeholders with improved network capabilities [3] - Verizon highlights its leadership in O-RAN standards development, expecting the collaboration to accelerate Open RAN networks, improving resilience and performance for operators and customers [3] - VIAVI's President and CEO expresses confidence that the partnership will contribute to the evolution of Open RAN testing, making it more automated and efficient [3] Group 3: Consortium and Academic Involvement - ACCoRD is a consortium led by AT&T and Verizon, including founding members NTT DOCOMO and Reliance Jio, with a focus on establishing an Open RAN Testing, Evaluation, and R&D Center in the Dallas area [4] - The consortium will leverage the expertise of academic institutions such as the University of Texas at Dallas, Virginia Tech, Northeastern University, Iowa State University, and Rutgers University [4]