MásOrange’s 6G Push Signals a New Era for Open RAN

As the telecom industry grapples with the realities of 5G monetization and the promise of AI, a quiet but significant development has emerged from Spain. MásOrange, the joint venture between Orange Spain and MásMóvil, has announced tests that signal a next step in the 6G story. While 6G may seem distant, this move carries immediate implications for Open RAN operators, who must prepare for a future where AI-native networks and advanced RAN architectures become the norm. This article breaks down what MásOrange’s 6G ambitions mean for the Open RAN ecosystem and why operators should pay attention now.

1. MásOrange’s 6G Tests: A Strategic Signal

MásOrange’s recent tests are part of its “innovation strategy to anticipate future connectivity needs and prepare infrastructure for the new era of artificial intelligence, automation, quantum computing, immersive digital experiences and future use cases that will transform entire sectors of the economy.” This statement, reported by TelecomTV, underscores a broader industry trend: operators are looking beyond 5G to 6G, which is expected to be AI-native from the ground up.

The tests likely involve advanced RAN technologies, possibly including AI-driven optimization and new spectrum bands. While specific details are scarce, the strategic intent is clear: MásOrange wants to be at the forefront of network evolution, ensuring its infrastructure is ready for the next decade of connectivity.

For Open RAN operators, this is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it validates the industry’s shift toward more intelligent, software-defined networks. On the other, it raises questions about investment timing and technology choices. Should operators wait for 6G standards to solidify, or invest now in Open RAN architectures that can evolve?

2. The 6G Timeline: Why Now?

6G is not expected to be commercialized until around 2030, but the groundwork is being laid now. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has already outlined its vision for 6G, which includes AI-native air interfaces, integrated sensing, and extreme performance capabilities. Standards bodies like 3GPP are beginning to define 6G requirements, with the first release expected around 2028.

MásOrange’s tests are part of this early exploration phase. By engaging with 6G technologies now, operators can influence standards and ensure their networks are future-proof. For Open RAN, this is particularly relevant, as 6G is expected to build on the principles of openness and disaggregation that define Open RAN today.

However, the industry has learned from the 5G experience that hype can outpace reality. As TelecomTV’s Ray Le Maistre noted, “That sounds like the kind of optimism that accompanied the pre-5G era – let’s hope the industry has more success this time around.” Operators must balance enthusiasm with pragmatism, focusing on use cases that deliver tangible value.

3. What Does This Mean for Open RAN?

Open RAN is likely to be a foundational element of 6G networks. The disaggregated, cloud-native architecture that Open RAN promotes aligns with the AI-native, software-driven vision of 6G. By adopting Open RAN now, operators can build the skills and infrastructure needed for 6G later.

Moreover, 6G is expected to leverage AI at every level of the network, from the RAN to the core. This is where Open RAN’s open interfaces become crucial. They allow operators to integrate AI-driven applications from multiple vendors, avoiding vendor lock-in and fostering innovation.

For example, Nokia and NVIDIA have partnered to bring AI-RAN to life, combining Nokia’s anyRAN software with NVIDIA’s accelerated computing platform. This collaboration, highlighted in a recent tele.net interview with Nokia India’s Vibha Mehra, demonstrates how Open RAN can support AI-native features such as improved spectrum efficiency and network automation.

4. The Role of AI in 6G and Open RAN

AI is not just an add-on to 6G; it is a core component. 6G networks will need to support AI-driven services like autonomous vehicles, digital twins, and immersive extended reality. To do this, the RAN itself must be AI-native, capable of self-optimizing, self-healing, and dynamically allocating resources.

Open RAN provides the perfect platform for this. With its open interfaces, operators can deploy AI algorithms that optimize RAN performance in real-time, based on traffic patterns, user behavior, and network conditions. This is already being tested in 5G networks, as seen in the AI-RAN Alliance’s efforts and various vendor solutions.

MásOrange’s 6G tests likely include AI-driven features, given the operator’s emphasis on AI in its statement. This aligns with the broader industry trend toward AI-RAN, which was a major theme at recent events like LEAP 2026 and the AI-Native Telco Forum.

5. Implications for Operators: A Practical Guide

So, what should Open RAN operators do in response to MásOrange’s 6G signals? Here are five actionable insights:

1. Don’t Wait for 6G to Invest in Open RAN: The transition to 6G will not happen overnight. Operators should continue investing in Open RAN architectures that can evolve, rather than waiting for a ‘big bang’ upgrade. This approach was echoed in a recent TelecomTV article, which noted that “the introduction of 6G will require capex budgets to be allocated to at least some new mobile network technologies, particularly in the RAN.”

2. Prioritize AI-Native Features: As AI becomes central to network operations, operators should prioritize Open RAN solutions that integrate AI from day one. This includes AI-driven RAN optimization, predictive maintenance, and automated fault management. The Nokia India interview highlighted that “AI-RAN helps make the RAN more programmable and software-driven, so intelligence can be applied closer to where mobile traffic is created and managed.”

3. Engage in Standards Bodies: To influence 6G standards, operators should actively participate in organizations like 3GPP, ITU, and the O-RAN Alliance. By contributing to standards, they can ensure that 6G supports Open RAN principles and addresses operator needs.

4. Monitor Early Trials: Keep an eye on early 6G trials like MásOrange’s. These provide valuable insights into emerging technologies and use cases. Operators can learn from these tests without making significant investments themselves.

5. Build Skills and Partnerships: The shift to 6G will require new skills in AI, cloud computing, and software engineering. Operators should invest in training and forge partnerships with technology providers like NVIDIA, Nokia, and Ericsson, who are already developing 6G-ready solutions.

Conclusion

MásOrange’s 6G tests are a reminder that the telecom industry is always evolving. While 6G may seem far off, the decisions operators make today will shape their ability to capitalize on future opportunities. For Open RAN operators, the path forward is clear: embrace AI, continue disaggregating, and prepare for a future where networks are not just open, but intelligent. The journey to 6G is long, but those who start now will be best positioned to lead.

Sources

• Spain’s MásOrange signals a next step in the 6G story - TelecomTV
• Nokia India: Helping operators move towards self-optimising, AI-ready networks - tele.net.in
• What’s up with… ETSI, Qualcomm, Telecom Italia, The AI-Native Telco - TelecomTV