USD 210.4 million
Report ID:
SQMIG45A2596 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: May, 2025
Pages:
198
|Tables:
109
|Figures:
69
Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market size was valued at USD 210.4 million in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 321.28 million in 2024 to USD 9497.23 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 52.7% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
The growing shift of digitalization and the growing demand for effective network traffic management are the most important factors that promote the development of the RAN intelligent controller market. It plays an important role in Open Radio Access Network (open rain) by ensuring seamless interoperability difference between hardware and software components from many suppliers.
In February 2024, NEC Corporation introduced an AI-operated RIC solution designed to customize the 5G network performance and reduce the delay, enabling better quality service (QOS) and Quality-Eenemy (Qoe). In addition, Ericsson's partnership with Bharti Airtel in December 2024 focuses on distributing open with RIC skills to increase traffic control and resource use, ensuring easy connection in an environment with high demand. This progress emphasizes how Ric changes the telecommunications network by running automation, efficiency and cost efficiency in the next generation of mobile communication. The development of RAN intelligent controller (RIC) technology revolutionizes open RAN solutions by integrating Data Science, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). As an AI-driven system, Ric enables real-time analysis, allowing mobile operators to make date-driven decisions for customized network performance. Increase in data traffic driven by increasing demand for video streaming and virtual conference has made network efficiency and automation more important than ever.
How Is AI Transforming the RAN Intelligent Controller Market?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming the Radio Access Network (RAN) Intelligent Controller (RIC) market by introducing advanced automation, optimization, and real-time decision-making capabilities. AI-driven RICs enable dynamic resource allocation, interference mitigation, and predictive maintenance, enhancing network performance and reducing operational costs. The adoption of Open RAN architectures further accelerates this transformation by promoting interoperability and allowing seamless integration of AI capabilities. For instance, In February 2024, these companies demonstrated an AI and machine learning model integrated with their RAN Intelligent Controller, achieving up to 25% energy savings by optimizing antenna configurations based on real-time network usage.
How Is AI Transforming the RAN Intelligent Controller Market?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is significantly transforming the Radio Access Network (RAN) Intelligent Controller (RIC) market by introducing advanced automation, optimization, and real-time decision-making capabilities. AI-driven RICs enable dynamic resource allocation, interference mitigation, and predictive maintenance, enhancing network performance and reducing operational costs. The adoption of Open RAN architectures further accelerates this transformation by promoting interoperability and allowing seamless integration of AI capabilities.
For instance, In February 2024, these companies demonstrated an AI and machine learning model integrated with their RAN Intelligent Controller, achieving up to 25% energy savings by optimizing antenna configurations based on real-time network usage.
Which Startups Are Driving Innovation in the RAN Intelligent Controller Market?
The RAN intelligent controller market is gaining momentum as telecom operators increasingly adopt Open RAN architectures to enhance network flexibility, automation, and efficiency. Startups in this space are driving innovation by developing AI-driven optimization solutions, real-time network analytics, and advanced automation capabilities. These emerging players are playing a crucial role in transforming traditional radio access networks (RAN) into intelligent, software-defined ecosystems, improving network performance, reducing operational costs, and enabling seamless 5G deployments.
ANSCER Robotics, founded in 2020, contributes indirectly by leveraging AI-driven robotics that assist in telecommunications infrastructure maintenance and optimization. These startups exemplify the ongoing transformation of the RAN intelligent controller market, utilizing AI and automation to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall network performance.
Accelleran, founded in 2019, has emerged as a key player in Open RAN solutions, focusing on its RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) platform. The company has developed AI-powered xApps and rApps that enhance network performance, including energy efficiency, traffic steering, and PCI allocation tools, which have been successfully deployed in live networks. Optimizes network energy consumption by adjusting power based on demand, reducing costs while maintaining performance. Dynamically distributes user traffic across network resources to enhance performance and efficiency
Open RAN: Established in 2017 through a merger, Mavenir is a telecommunications software company that provides cloud-native software applications for mobile networks. Mavenir's Open RAN architecture promotes interoperability by utilizing open interfaces and protocols, allowing integration of network elements from different vendors. This disaggregated approach facilitates network flexibility and innovation, enabling operators to adapt and scale their networks efficiently. In collaboration with DISH Network, Mavenir deployed its Open vRAN solution across over 9,500 sites, contributing to DISH's milestone of covering more than 70% of the U.S. population with 5G network availability as of June 2023. This large-scale deployment underscores Mavenir's capability to deliver cloud-native RAN solutions effectively.
Market snapshot - 2025-2032
Global Market Size
USD 210.4 million
Largest Segment
BFSI
Fastest Growth
Government and Public Sector
Growth Rate
52.7% CAGR
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Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market is segmented by Component, Function Type, Technology, Deployment Model, Application, End User and region. Based on Component, the market is segmented into Platforms and Services. Based on Function Type, the market is segmented into Non-RT RIC (Non-Real-Time-RAN Intelligent Controller) and Near-RT RIC (Near-Real-Time-RAN Intelligent Controller). Based on Technology, the market is segmented into 4G and 5G. Based on Deployment Model, the market is segmented into On-Premises, Cloud-Based and Hybrid. Based on Application, the market is segmented into rApps and xApps. Based on End User, the market is segmented into Telecom Operators, Enterprise Users and Government Organizations. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
As per global RAN intelligent controller market analysis, the platforms segment dominated the market in 2024, securing a revenue share of over 63.0%. This segment is projected to maintain its lead, growing at an impressive CAGR of approximately 60.4% throughout the forecast period. The dominance of the platform segment is driven by its ability to provide software-based solutions that enhance RAN automation, cost efficiency, and performance optimization. Key market players such as Sweden-based Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, U.S. based VMware, Inc., and Mavenir offer cutting-edge RIC platforms that empower mobile network operators with AI-driven decision-making and network control. For example, Belgium-based Accelleran NV provides the dRAX RAN Intelligent Controller, which leverages real-time analytics to help operators make data-driven decisions and improve network performance.
The services segment is expected to witness the fastest growth, with a projected CAGR of 62.0% during the forecast period. This segment includes integration, deployment, support, and consulting services, which are crucial for the successful implementation of RIC solutions. Mobile network operators often face challenges such as legacy system integration, high deployment complexity, and technological immaturity.
As per global RAN intelligent controller market outlook, the non-RT RIC segment led the RAN intelligent controller market in 2023, capturing a revenue share of over 59.0%. It is projected to maintain its dominance, expanding at a CAGR of over 60.0% during the forecast period. Non-RT RIC plays a crucial role in device management, fault detection, and performance monitoring, helping optimize intelligent RAN by delivering model-driven insights and policy-based guidance to Near-RT RIC systems. Leveraging AI, ML, and advanced data analytics, non-RT RIC enhances network decision making and automation. For example, in February 2023, Turkey-based P.I. launched its non-RT RICplatform, designed to accelerate Open RAN adoption and improve network performance, reinforcing the industry's shift toward AI-powered intelligent networks.
As per the global RAN intelligent controller market forecast, the Near-RT RIC segment is expected to witness the fastest growth, with an anticipated CAGR of 62.1% throughout the forecast period. Near-RT RIC enables dynamic programmatic control of RAN operations, supporting decision-making within time cycles ranging from 10 milliseconds to one second. This capability is crucial for latency-sensitive applications, ensuring real-time network optimization.
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North America dominated the RAN intelligent controller market, contributing to over 35% of the global revenue share in 2024. The region's leadership is driven by the rapid adoption of Open RAN technology, 5G network expansion, and significant investments in AI-powered network automation solutions.
The United States leads the North America region in the market, accounting for over 70% of the region’s revenue share. The country’s dominance stems from its strong telecom infrastructure, early adoption of 5G standalone networks, and federal support for Open RAN initiatives. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Department of Defense (DoD) have invested in RIC-based 5G network deployments to enhance national security and telecom resilience. In March 2024, Mavenir, in collaboration with Dish Wireless, deployed an AI-powered RIC solution, improving network automation and spectrum efficiency.
Canada is experiencing the fastest growth in North America, with a projected CAGR of over 58% during the forecast period. The country’s focus on spectrum sharing, smart city infrastructure, and 5G expansion has fueled RIC adoption. In January 2024, Bell Canada announced the successful integration of a Near-RT RIC solution developed in partnership with Ericsson, aimed at enhancing real-time network optimization and reducing latency for ultra-reliable 5G applications.
Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the RAN intelligent controller market, expected to witness a CAGR of over 62% from 2024 to 2030. The region’s expansion is fueled by 5G deployments, Open RAN initiatives, and government-backed AI-driven telecom advancements.
China is the largest market in Asia Pacific, holding over 40% of the regional revenue share. The country’s dominance is driven by state-owned telecom operators like China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom, which are integrating AI-driven RIC solutions to enhance 5G coverage and efficiency. In April 2024, Huawei launched a next-generation RIC platform, leveraging deep reinforcement learning algorithms to improve network slicing and dynamic spectrum management.
India is the fastest-growing RIC market in Asia Pacific, with a CAGR of 64% during the forecast period. The Digital India initiative and aggressive 5G rollout by Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel are accelerating RIC adoption. In February 2024, Airtel, in collaboration with NEC Corporation, successfully deployed a Near-RT RIC solution, optimizing network traffic management and improving QoS for ultra-low latency applications.
Europe is a key player in the global RIC market, contributing over 28% of the total revenue share in 2024. The region’s growth is driven by government regulations supporting Open RAN, 5G innovation, and AI-led telecom network optimization.
Germany is the largest market in Europe, holding a regional revenue share of over 35%. The country’s emphasis on 5G private networks, Industry 4.0 applications, and AI-led telecom solutions fuels market expansion. In May 2024, Deutsche Telekom deployed an AI-driven non-RT RIC solution to enhance 5G network slicing and energy efficiency, reducing network congestion and operational costs.
The United Kingdom is the fastest-growing market in Europe, projected to grow at a CAGR of 60% throughout the forecast period. The UK’s Open RAN initiative, led by Vodafone, BT Group, and government-backed projects, is fostering RIC adoption. In March 2024, Vodafone UK deployed a Near-RT RIC solution in collaboration with Nokia, enhancing real-time network automation and improving spectral efficiency for nationwide 5G networks.
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Growing Adoption of Open RAN Architecture
Increasing Demand for Network Automation and AI-Driven Optimization
Integration Challenges with Existing RAN Infrastructure
Security and Data Privacy Concerns
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The global RAN intelligent controller industry is highly competitive, with key players implementing various strategies such as strategic partnerships, AI-driven innovations, Open RAN integrations, and product expansions to strengthen their market position. Companies are increasingly focusing on cloud-native and AI-powered solutions to enhance network automation and efficiency. For example, In February 2024, NEC Corporation and Radisys partnered to integrate AI-powered RIC solutions into Open RAN ecosystems, aiming to improve network automation and interoperability in 5G deployments.
SkyQuest’s ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Services team that Collects, Collates, Correlates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
As per SkyQuest analysis, the RAN intelligent controller market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by the increasing adoption of Open RAN architecture, AI-powered network optimization, and the demand for automated and intelligent 5G network management. The established market players and new entrants are investing in Research & Development (R&D) to offer advanced solutions. The threat of substitutes is moderate in the RAN intelligent controller market. The challenges associated with deploying RIC compel companies to integrate advanced technological solutions, such as open-source software and open standards, that could potentially disrupt the market. For example, the development of Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) technologies can lead to the creation of alternative solutions that might compete with RIC. RIC solutions help mobile operators maximize network resource utilization. It helps operators enhance network management and services and also aids mobile operators in reducing operational and infrastructure costs.
Report Metric | Details |
---|---|
Market size value in 2023 | USD 210.4 million |
Market size value in 2032 | USD 9497.23 million |
Growth Rate | 52.7% |
Base year | 2024 |
Forecast period | 2025-2032 |
Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Million |
Segments covered |
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Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
Companies covered |
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Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
COVID IMPACT
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
Market Size by Region
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
Methodology
For the RAN Intelligent Controller Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the RAN Intelligent Controller Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
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Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market size was valued at USD 218.5 million in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 351.79 million in 2024 to USD 15,881.24 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 61.0% in the forecast period (2025-2032).
The global RAN intelligent controller industry is highly competitive, with key players implementing various strategies such as strategic partnerships, AI-driven innovations, Open RAN integrations, and product expansions to strengthen their market position. Companies are increasingly focusing on cloud-native and AI-powered solutions to enhance network automation and efficiency. For example, In February 2024, NEC Corporation and Radisys partnered to integrate AI-powered RIC solutions into Open RAN ecosystems, aiming to improve network automation and interoperability in 5G deployments. 'Ericsson', 'Nokia', 'Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.', 'ZTE Corporation', 'Mavenir', 'NEC Corporation', 'Samsung Electronics', 'Parallel Wireless', 'Radisys Corporation', 'Fujitsu', 'Altiostar (a Rakuten Symphony company)', 'Juniper Networks'
The increasing shift toward Open RAN (O-RAN) architecture is a key driver of the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) market. Traditional RAN infrastructure relies on proprietary hardware and software, limiting flexibility and vendor interoperability. However, Open RAN disaggregates the network, enabling the integration of multi-vendor solutions. The RIC plays a crucial role in this ecosystem by optimizing network functions through AI-powered xApps and rApps. Leading telecom operators, such as Vodafone, AT&T, and Rakuten, are actively investing in Open RAN deployments, further accelerating demand for RIC solutions.
Expansion of AI-Powered xApps and rApps for 5G and Beyond: The market is witnessing a surge in AI-driven xApps and rApps designed to optimize network operations. Telecom operators are leveraging these applications to enhance energy efficiency, automate network slicing, and improve Quality of Service (QoS). Companies like AirHop Communications and Parallel Wireless are leading this trend by developing AI-based solutions that enable predictive analytics and self-healing network capabilities.
How Is North America Shaping the RAN Intelligent Controller Market?
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