FCC approves notice opening up ‘innovation zones’ for Open RAN development, testing

The Federal Communications Commission has authorized two new “innovation zones” in Boston and Raleigh, N.C. to support development and testing of Open Radio Access Networks in an effort to find new solutions to build and secure fifth-generation networks.

“Innovation zones provide opportunities for qualified licensees to test new advanced technologies and prototype networks, including Open RAN as well as those that can support 5G technologies, outside a traditional small campus or laboratory setting,” the FCC said Thursday following its monthly...