Airspan to become a key player on the new 450MHz spectrum with vRAN solution

Airspan Networks Holdings Inc., a provider of ground-breaking, disruptive software and hardware for 5G networks and a pioneer in end-to-end Open RAN solutions, is delighted to announce its strategic entry into the Utilities market. With a pioneering end-to-end solution, Airspan is set to revolutionize the industry by offering a comprehensive package that includes the consumer device, the RAN (Radio Access Network), and the core network, seamlessly controlled by a single software platform.

Airspan has formed a strategic partnership with GCT Semiconductor, Inc. (“GCT”), a leading fabless designer and supplier of advanced LTE, IoT and 5G semiconductor solutions, to develop a state-of-the-art RF module, designed to be utilized across a diverse range of devices. In addition, Airspan is introducing a new family of vRAN radios that cover the sub 1GHz spectrum. Complementing these hardware advancements, Airspan will also provide a scalable virtual core network. All these cutting-edge components will be managed by a unified software platform that seamlessly integrates with customers' existing legacy management systems. The solution is modular, meaning that it can be purchased as a whole or as individual parts to be integrated with existing infrastructure. This comprehensive solution empowers utilities companies to optimize their operations and leverage their current infrastructure while embracing the latest advancements in wireless technology.

In a move to further strengthen its commitment to the Utilities market, Airspan has joined forces with the 450MHz Alliance. This partnership will enable Airspan to actively support and promote the utilization of the 450MHz spectrum for the utilities sector. By leveraging this spectrum, Airspan aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of communication networks, enabling utilities companies to optimize their operations and deliver improved services to end-users.

"We are incredibly excited to strengthen our position into the Utilities market," said Henrik Smith-Petersen, CSMO at Airspan. "Our end-to-end solution, combined with our partnership with GCT and membership in the 450MHz Alliance, positions Airspan as a key player in delivering cutting-edge wireless solutions for the utilities sector. We are committed to providing utilities companies with the tools they need to enhance their operations and meet the evolving demands of their customers."

"This builds upon 8 years of co-developing products for the US and beyond," said Alex Sum, SVP of Sales & Marketing at GCT. "Our enduring partnership with Airspan, which now includes our new 5G chipset, has paved the way for groundbreaking innovation. We are very excited to participate with Airspan in the utilities sector with what we believe is a game-changing end-to-end solution that promises unparalleled performance and reliability."

“We are thrilled to witness the collaboration between Airspan Networks and GCT Semiconductor. This partnership epitomizes the innovative spirit and technical excellence our members bring to the telecommunications industry," said Igor Virker, Managing Director of the 450 MHz Alliance. “As members of our alliance, Airspan /GCT solution is not only aligns with our mission to advance the capabilities of the 450 MHz spectrum but also sets a new benchmark for excellence within our industry."

Airspan's first general availability product is set to make its debut in the third quarter of 2024, marking a significant milestone in our journey. Be sure to visit us at Hall 2 - 2E20 during MWC 2024 for an exclusive sneak preview of our cutting-edge RAN product and comprehensive end-to-end solution for the utilities market.

About Airspan

Airspan Networks Holdings Inc. (NYSE American: MIMO) is a U.S.-based provider of groundbreaking, disruptive software and hardware for 5G networks, and a pioneer in end-to-end Open RAN solutions that provide interoperability with other vendors. As a result of innovative technology and significant R&D investments to build and expand 5G solutions, Airspan believes it is well-positioned with 5G indoor and outdoor, Open RAN, private networks for enterprise customers and industrial use applications, fixed wireless access (FWA), Air-To-Ground and CBRS solutions to help mobile network operators of all sizes deploy their networks of the future, today. With over one million cells shipped to 1,000 customers in more than 100 countries, Airspan has global scale. For more information, visit www.airspan.com.

About GCT Semiconductor, Inc.

GCT Semiconductor is a leading fabless designer and supplier of advanced 5G and 4G LTE semiconductor solutions. GCT’s market-proven solutions have enabled fast and reliable LTE connectivity to numerous commercial devices such as smartphones, tablets, hotspots, USB dongles, routers, M2M applications, etc., for the world’s top carriers. GCT’s system-on-chip solutions integrate radio frequency, baseband modem and digital signal processing functions, therefore offering complete 4G and 5G platform solutions with small form factors, low power consumption, high performance, high reliability and cost effectiveness. For more information, visit www.gctsemi.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240117076747/en/