Partner Google Cloud says it’s a leader in 5G software
Cable-cum-cloud vendor Casa Systems has forged a technology and distribution alliance with Google Cloud which gives it a recognisable presence in the telecoms cloud. The objective of the partnership is to catch up and outstrip cloud natives and differentiate Casa Systems with the help of Google Cloud’s integrated cloud native software and service offerings, it said in a release.
Together they will offer mobile network operators, CSPs and global corporations an integrated Google Cloud-Casa Systems service for cloud-native 5G core, 5G SA multi-access edge computing (MEC), as well as mobile private networks. The duo will co-develop their own unique features and fixes in order to create a competitive differentiation for what might otherwise be just another cloud offering.
Casa Systems CEO Jerry Guo said the firm was delighted to formalize a partnership that would expedite the adoption of its cloud-native 5G Core and 5G SA MEC services and software. “This partnership ensures we remain at the cutting edge and can be brought to market globally,” said Guo.
Getting recognition as a force to ally with is “a pretty big deal for Casa,” said Telecom TV, which noted that it comes in the wake of another prestigious vote of confidence. Recently it was announced that US mobile operator Verizon had selected 5G core technology from Casa Systems to support its mobile edge computing (MEC) strategy in an $140m deal. In addition, Verizon has invested $40 million in Casa in return for a 9.9% equity stake.
“We have been working with Casa Systems for two years and it’s got a great team and great cloud-native 5G software technology,” said Amol Phadke, MD of Google Cloud’s Global Telecom Industry, “it’s a new leader in the cloud-native 5G market.”
Casa has put considerable resources into to diversifying into the cloud native core and virtualised network functions for telecoms, reports Ray Le Maistre at Telecom TV. CEO Guo prophesied many developments in telecoms, notably in 5G and Open RAN. Casa developed its own portfolio of indoor/in-building and outdoor small cells and its cloud native core network system attracted attention from major operators. It also pioneered a virtual broadband network gateway (BNG) product that has been developed for fixed/wireless convergence.
“The difference between us and many other players is that we have developed our own radio head hardware and software,” said Guo, “that’s very different from the traditional route of just buying a chip from a chip vendor.”