SoftBank Corp. announced the development of an orchestrator that integrates AI applications and virtualized Radio Access Network (vRAN) workloads on a single virtualized infrastructure. Built on GPU computing platforms, including the NVIDIA GH200 Grace Hopper Superchip, this orchestrator enables carrier-grade vRAN with high capacity and performance, while simultaneously hosting advanced AI applications like generative AI. The innovation paves the way for telecom operators to optimize underutilized RAN infrastructure and unlock significant revenue potential.
The orchestrator addresses challenges inherent in operating AI and vRAN workloads on a shared platform, including differences in service level agreements (SLAs) and server configurations. SoftBank’s solution ensures kernel-level customization for specific workload needs. Integrated with NVIDIA AI Enterprise and Red Hat OpenShift, the orchestrator dynamically allocates resources, enabling efficient operation of both vRAN and AI applications. It also supports the development and deployment of third-party AI applications, offering a flexible platform for telecom operators to maximize resource utilization and cost-effectiveness.
Key features of the orchestrator include an optimal matching algorithm for resource allocation, centralized management of multi-cluster environments, and real-time infrastructure adjustments. These capabilities allow AI and vRAN applications to coexist seamlessly on distributed data centers. By implementing this innovation, SoftBank aims to advance intelligent network services while addressing industry-wide efficiency challenges.
• Enables unified operation of AI and vRAN on GPU platforms, including NVIDIA GH200.
• Integrated with Red Hat OpenShift for dynamic resource management.
• Supports serverless API for third-party AI application development.
• Features centralized multi-cluster management across distributed AI data centers.
• Positions telcos to monetize underutilized RAN infrastructure through AI applications.
Soma Velayutham, Vice President of AI and Telecoms at NVIDIA, said, “SoftBank’s orchestrator creates an AI marketplace for AI-RAN infrastructure, bridging the gap between AI supply and demand and opening a multi-billion-dollar revenue opportunity for telcos worldwide.”