The O-RAN Alliance said it's taking steps to ensure its members remain in compliance with US regulations and sanctions. The statement follows news that Nokia has suspended technical activities with the group, due to concerns the participation of certain Chinese companies in the work may violate US sanctions.
The industry group said it remains committed to its work of delivering open standards for mobile radio networks. It's aware of the concerns of some participants that may be subject to US export regulations, and said it has been working with O-RAN participants to address the concerns. The O-RAN board already approved changes to O-RAN participation documents and procedures.
The group said it would be up to each participant to decide whether the changes are sufficient for their own operations. However, "O-RAN is optimistic that the changes will address the concerns and facilitate O-RAN’s mission," the statement said.
Further details of the changes were not disclosed. Nokia said in a statement to Fierce Wireless that the changes should allow it to continue technical work with the alliance. "The speed with which the Alliance has been able to resolve recent issues speaks to the spirit of community and co-operation on which it was founded," the company said.
The O-RAN Alliance was formed in February 2018 in a merger of the xRAN Forum, founded mainly by US, European and Japanese mobile operators, and the C-RAN Alliance, formed by Chinese operators and vendors. It has since expanded to over 300 members and is registered as a German legal entity.
