By Oystein Bergmann, Correspondent Scandinavia

The GSMA has revealed details of the first project trials using its Telco Edge Operator Platform. It has also launched the Telco Edge Cloud (TEC) Forum to accelerate the adoption of edge-based services and collaborate with other standards bodies to encourage interoperability.

The Telco Edge Operator Platform by design optimises the power of edge computing, ensuring that next-generation applications can benefit from 5G’s ultra-low latency and high bandwidth. This will support the timely development and ultimate reach for game-changing services and enhanced network functionality.

Alongside the launch of the TEC Forum, the GSMA has published a document detailing Telco Edge Operator Platform requirements, working with other standards bodies to ensure that developers and customer have seamless access to the edge for innovative products and services. Interoperability and open source solutions are key to safeguarding a coherent upgrade path and a consistent level of provision.

“Mobile network operators are in pole position to provide advanced cloud and edge computing capabilities through their local network assets, benefiting greatly from increased capacity and low latency,” said CTO at GSMA, Alex Sinclair. “More demanding consumer and enterprise use cases make it essential for service providers to run applications closer to end-users at the edge of any network. Based on the GSMA Operator Platform Specification, Telco Edge Cloud will provide enterprise developers and aggregators with a consistent way to reach connected customers.”

Telefónica, in partnership with Deutsche Telekom and TIM, is leading the first of the trials. Together, they collaborate with DoubleMe, the developers of Twinworld, a holographic mixed reality portal that offers a truly immersive experience. Its functionality is dependent on 5G’s near-real-time access and high data throughput.

“The GSMA’s TEC Trial initiative is a perfect framework to bring together operators, technology partners, solution providers and potential customers to experience the benefits of a Telco-based Edge Cloud,” said Senior Vice‑President of Technology Innovation & Ecosystems at Telefónica, Juan Carlos Garcia. “We are delighted to contribute to this initiative alongside other tier-one operators in Europe to create industry references and define best practices on edge computing. More concretely, we are about to initiate a trial on holographic videoconferencing with Deutsche Telekom, DoubleMe, MobiledgeX and TIM in which we will test not just the edge application performance but network features like smart edge discovery, roaming and interconnection.”

The second trial, led by KDDI in partnership with Deutsche Telekom, MobiledgeX, Sturfee, and Mawari, is focused on building a whole new platform that combines Visual Positioning Service (VPS), a spatial recognition technology, and XR content streaming technology. This trial also demonstrates the development and deployment of low latency XR applications on multiple operator MECs.

Leading-edge developments

The GSMA’s new TEC Forum, initiated in May 2021, has been created to support edge cloud developments by creating a space where leaders in the edge community can share, develop and progress the adoption of interoperable edge cloud solutions.

It will also investigate barriers to the development and deployment of edge cloud services and promote interconnectivity across platforms to create global TEC networks and services.  The forum will provide an opportunity for members to discuss commercial and business requirements and share results from pre-commercial trials and service launches.

“The Telco Edge Cloud Forum was launched to become the meeting point for telecom operators and technology providers to progress the Edge Cloud business,” said Garcia. “The forum members represent companies that are actively developing an open, standard and global edge computing service, giving shape to the future development of this category.”

“Mobile Edge Computing (MEC) is a huge opportunity for Mobile Operators now that everything is moving to the Cloud and the Cloud is getting closer to the Edge,” said Executive Officer and Head of Product Management, Solution Business Sector at KDDI, Toru Maruta. “Sharing these trial results and deployment experiences in the TEC Forum will become useful to expand the possibility of 5G services. KDDI will make the most of these MEC opportunities.”