RAN Intelligent Controller Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis, By Component (Platforms, Services), By Function Type (Non-RT RIC, Near-RT RIC), By Technology, By Deployment Model, By Application, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032

Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market size was valued at USD 210.4 million in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 321.28 million in 2024 to USD 9497.23 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 52.7% during the forecast period (2025-2032).

The RAN intelligent controller (RIC) market is thriving due to the surge in digitalization and the need for efficient network traffic management. RIC is crucial in the Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN), facilitating seamless interoperability among diverse hardware and software components from various suppliers. Recent advancements underscore this trend, such as NEC Corporation's AI-driven RIC solution launched in February 2024, aimed at optimizing 5G network performance and enhancing QoS. Similarly, Ericsson's alliance with Bharti Airtel in December 2024 leverages RIC capabilities to improve traffic management and resource utilization in high-demand scenarios. With the explosion of data traffic from video streaming and virtual conferences, the integration of Data Science, AI, and ML in RIC technology is reshaping telecommunications, driving automation, efficiency, and cost savings in next-gen mobile communications.

Top-down and bottom-up approaches were used to estimate and validate the size of the Global RAN Intelligent Controller market and to estimate the size of various other dependent submarkets. The research methodology used to estimate the market size includes the following details: The key players in the market were identified through secondary research, and their market shares in the respective regions were determined through primary and secondary research. This entire procedure includes the study of the annual and financial reports of the top market players and extensive interviews for key insights from industry leaders such as CEOs, VPs, directors, and marketing executives. All percentage shares split, and breakdowns were determined using secondary sources and verified through Primary sources. All possible parameters that affect the markets covered in this research study have been accounted for, viewed in extensive detail, verified through primary research, and analyzed to get the final quantitative and qualitative data.

Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market Segments Analysis

Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market is segmented by Component, Function Type, Technology, Deployment Model, Application, End User and region. Based on Component, the market is segmented into Platforms and Services. Based on Function Type, the market is segmented into Non-RT RIC (Non-Real-Time-RAN Intelligent Controller) and Near-RT RIC (Near-Real-Time-RAN Intelligent Controller). Based on Technology, the market is segmented into 4G and 5G. Based on Deployment Model, the market is segmented into On-Premises, Cloud-Based and Hybrid. Based on Application, the market is segmented into rApps and xApps. Based on End User, the market is segmented into Telecom Operators, Enterprise Users and Government Organizations. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.

Driver of the Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market

The growing adoption of Open RAN (O-RAN) architecture significantly propels the RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) market. Unlike traditional RAN systems, which depend on proprietary hardware and software and limit flexibility and vendor collaboration, Open RAN facilitates a disaggregated network that allows for the incorporation of solutions from multiple vendors. In this dynamic ecosystem, the RIC is essential, as it enhances network operations through the deployment of AI-driven xApps and rApps. Major telecommunications companies, including Vodafone, AT&T, and Rakuten, are making substantial investments in Open RAN implementations, which is further stimulating the demand for RIC solutions in the global market.

Restraints in the Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market

A significant barrier to the adoption of the Global RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) is the challenge of integrating it with existing legacy RAN systems. Numerous telecom operators continue to depend on proprietary solutions from major vendors such as Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei, which do not inherently support Open RAN standards. This incompatibility creates hurdles in deploying RIC, as it often necessitates extensive modifications to the existing network infrastructure. Consequently, these adjustments can result in increased costs and prolonged timelines, ultimately hindering the seamless implementation of more advanced and flexible RIC technologies within the telecommunications sector.

Market Trends of the Global RAN Intelligent Controller Market

The Global RAN Intelligent Controller market is experiencing robust growth driven by the rising adoption of AI-powered xApps and rApps tailored for 5G and beyond. Telecom operators are increasingly integrating these advanced applications to streamline network operations, thereby enhancing energy efficiency, automating network slicing, and delivering superior Quality of Service (QoS). Industry leaders such as AirHop Communications and Parallel Wireless are at the forefront of this trend, developing innovative AI-driven solutions that incorporate predictive analytics and self-healing capabilities. This shift not only improves operational efficiency but also positions the market for significant advancements in network management and performance optimization.