Samsung is taking its virtualized radio access network (vRAN) technology back more than two decades, rolling out support for 2G networks that continue to power legacy IoT and edge services.

The telecom equipment vendor said it will launch a vRAN architecture for GSM-based 2G technology that mobile operators can use to support legacy services and new deployments. That platform will also support a seamless migration path for 4G and 5G services.

“Virtualization of 2G will be an effective way for operators and enterprises looking to leverage this legacy technology, enabling operators to maintain 2G with more efficiency in deployment and management,” wrote Kiho Cho, VP and head of product strategy at Samsung Networks, in a blog post. “It is also an optimal option for markets that are not ready for 4G or 5G, but still want to modernize networks and future-proof their technology investments.”

Cho said the vRAN platform will allow operators to replace their hardware-based 2G networks with software. This can streamline cell site infrastructure and ongoing operational costs.

The software path also simplifies the migration of those 2G connections to a carrier’s 5G connection without having to risk losing customers to a hardware-based switch in services.

Most 2G networks run on lower-band spectrum holdings that have superior propagation characteristics to more recently launched 5G networks. Operators are in the process of migrating customers from those legacy networks so they can use those lower frequency bands to widen the reach of their 5G networks, but that process will take time.

Ongoing 2G network support varies by region. In the United States, most operators have either already shuttered those legacy networks or have upcoming hard deadlines.

Cho notes that some European operators are continuing to use and support 2G-based services, “with plans to leverage it beyond 2030.” That technology is still also being used as the anchor for voice services in many developing countries.

However, a recent ABI Research report did note that 4G LTE-based modules currently represent more than half of the most cellular-based IoT devices and that 2G and 3G “module development has now all but ceased although sales of legacy models will persist for a few more years.”

Samsung said the 2G vRAN product will begin trials in the second half of the year, with market-ready products available for delivery beginning in 2023.

The 2G move comes as Samsung continues to make 5G vRAN inroads.

Samsung released its first 5G vRAN portfolio in early 2021 following its blockbuster RAN agreement with Verizon, which was the first operator to commercially deploy the new equipment. It more recently struck a deal with Dish Network to provide its equipment to that operators burgeoning 5G network beginning next year.