AI radio access networks (AI-RAN) has been given a $53 million boost in the US, courtesy of the Department of Commerce.
Known as Solutions for AI‑Native RAN, the funding opportunity sees the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) looking to “accelerate the development, testing, and commercialization of secure” AI-RAN architecture.
“As AI becomes increasingly integrated into wireless networks, AI-native RAN is an area that plays directly to America’s strengths in software and artificial intelligence," Arielle Roth, assistant secretary of commerce for communications and information and NTIA administrator, noted. "By demonstrating these technologies in real-world networks, we can give providers, investors, and our international partners the evidence they need to adopt trusted American AI-native RAN solutions where they deliver value and help ensure American innovators are well-positioned to shape the next generation of wireless communications.”
The funding opportunity is the fourth to date under the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund, and further promotes the White House’s AI Action Plan. According to the tender, projects that combine strong technical performance with market viability will be prioritized. This is reliant on real‑world demonstrations that meet the fund’s statutory requirements, as well as 3GPP and O‑RAN specifications.
