US Mobile Operator UScellular Deploys 5G Technology to Enhance Fixed Wireless Access Service

UScellular, the fourth-largest mobile operator in the US, has teamed up with Samsung to deploy the vendor’s mmWave and virtualised RAN capabilities to support its 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) service. The partnership enables UScellular to use Samsung’s 5G compact macro platform to enable mmWave connectivity for both mobile and broadband services.

The platform consolidates baseband, radio, and antenna into a single form factor, allowing UScellular to access the 28GHz and 39GHz bands that support faster speeds and lower latency. This technology will enable UScellular to unleash new capabilities and deliver cutting-edge customer experiences.

As of Q3 2024, UScellular’s FWA customer base grew by 32 per cent year over year to 140,000. The operator’s FWA service is expected to play a significant role in the growing demand for fixed wireless access, with Dell’Oro Group predicting spending on FWA equipment will surpass $48 billion over the next five years.

UScellular has also employed Samsung’s vRAN software with central unit functionality to support its virtualised network. This software provides UScellular with additional bandwidth and energy saving capabilities. The operator has previously trialled mmWave technology, conducting a user test in 2021.

The deployment of Samsung’s 5G technology is part of UScellular’s efforts to enhance its FWA service and provide faster speeds and lower latency to its customers. The partnership with Samsung demonstrates the operator’s commitment to investing in the latest technology to meet the growing demand for fixed wireless access.

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