Samsung has achieved an important milestone by gaining validation from VMware for its 5G Telco Cloud Platform. This development makes it simpler for telecom operators who rely on VMware’s platform to incorporate Samsung’s 5G components into their networks. This validation supports Samsung’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the 5G core market and also strengthens VMware’s position in the telecom sector.
The key achievement here is the successful validation of Samsung’s 5G core to operate on the VMware platform. This rigorous process involved testing, certification, and validation of Samsung’s 5G core and related network functions, ensuring seamless deployment and ongoing management using VMware’s technology.
The specific functions that underwent validation include Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), User Plane Function (UPF), Network Repository Function (NRF), and Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF).
VMware initially introduced its Telco Cloud Platform in early 2021 as a comprehensive solution for network operators. Since then, VMware has continuously updated and expanded its offerings to cater to various 5G markets, including private 5G and mobile edge compute.
Regarding its collaboration with Samsung, VMware initiated these efforts in late 2020. This collaboration involved integrating Samsung’s network core, edge, and radio access network (RAN) solutions with VMware’s platform. Additionally, Samsung adapted its suite of products to support cloud-native architecture, making them compatible with containerized network functions (CNFs) and virtual network functions (VNFs) on VMware’s software stack and network automation services.
Earlier this year, VMware announced its first commercial collaboration with Samsung, which focused on integrating Samsung’s virtualized RAN (vRAN) with VMware’s Telco Cloud Platform as part of Dish Network’s 5G network deployment. This partnership further supported Dish Network’s ambitious plans for its 5G network.
Samsung’s validation on VMware’s Telco Cloud Platform puts it in a similar league with other 5G equipment vendors like Nokia and Ericsson, who have also achieved similar certifications. ABI Research recognized VMware’s multivendor certification program as diverse and robust, positioning it as a market leader. This acknowledgment gave VMware a slight edge over its competitor, Red Hat.
Red Hat has been intensifying its efforts in the telecom sector, but VMware’s pending acquisition by Broadcom could change the dynamics of this rivalry. Broadcom’s management has expressed its commitment to supporting VMware’s ongoing efforts, although some remain skeptical.
For Samsung, this validation strengthens its market position. Dell’Oro Group recently reported that Samsung is one of the leading vendors in the open RAN and vRAN space. This recognition was further solidified when Vodafone chose Samsung to supply virtualized and open RAN equipment for its initiative to deploy 2,500 disaggregated cell sites in the United Kingdom by 2027. This decision aligns with Vodafone’s strategy to replace equipment from Huawei.
In summary, Samsung’s validation on VMware’s Telco Cloud Platform signifies a significant achievement for both companies, enhancing their positions in the competitive telecom industry. Samsung’s growing momentum in the 5G RAN space and its partnership with major operators like Vodafone indicate a promising future in the evolving telecommunications landscape.