The O-RAN Software Community (O-RAN SC), sponsored by the O-RAN ALLIANCE and operated by the Linux Foundation, released its J and K open-source software packages aimed at accelerating adoption of open Radio Access Network (RAN) architectures. These updates align with O-RAN specifications and improve interoperability with OpenAirInterface (OAI), integrate more closely with Intel FlexRAN, and support more scalable RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) applications. The J and K releases also include new tools for researchers and AI/ML developers targeting next-generation RAN innovation.
The J release delivered enhanced integration with OAI and introduced a Python-based O1 Simulator and topology generator, alongside updates to the AI/ML framework using Kubeflow. The K release expanded support for AI/ML model management, added Kubernetes operators for deploying RIC, and improved integration of xApps and O-RAN SC Distributed Units (O-DU) with OAI. These features reflect the ongoing effort to create a unified, modular platform that supports faster design and deployment of disaggregated RAN components.
The O-RAN SC also previewed plans for its upcoming L release, which will bring new simulation capabilities, additional xApps, and deeper integration between the SC’s O-DU stack and OAI. The organization continues to emphasize cross-community collaboration to widen adoption of open-source RAN technologies and simplify network deployments for global operators and developers.
• J release includes:
• OAI integration improvements
• New sample rApps and enhanced rApp Manager
• Python-based O1 Simulator and topology generator
• Updated AI/ML framework with Kubeflow and R1AP v6.0
• K release includes:
• APIs and SDKs for AI/ML model lifecycle management
• Kubernetes operators for RIC deployment
• OKD O-Cloud bare-metal support
• Enhanced xApp support and tighter OAI integration
• Community collaboration includes:
• RIC Testing as a Platform (RIC-TaaP) with Orange
• Distributed RAN OAM demo at India Mobile Congress 2024
• Upcoming L release to introduce new simulator and more xApps
“These releases underscore the power of collaboration within the O-RAN SC,” said David Kinsey, Expert Member of Technical Staff, AT&T and Co-Chair for the O-RAN Software Community. “In alignment with the O-RAN ALLIANCE, the O-RAN SC addresses real-world challenges and delivers solutions that advance the adoption of open-source technologies in telecommunications.”