QoE-Oriented Open Radio Access Networks for Virtual Reality Applications

Open radio access network (O-RAN) technology shows that it has the potential to drastically change the ecosystem of the mobile networks. O-RAN is built on the pillars of openness and intelligence, and is able to provide programmable, flexible, and energy-efficient wireless communication services. Its enhanced architecture, which is capable of providing customized services, can act as an enabler for a range of emerging technologies with highly demanding network requirements, such as wireless virtual reality (VR) applications. This paper presents an overview of the O-RAN technology, analyzes its architecture and fundamental principles, and examines its main optimization operations. Moreover, it investigates the specific aspects of implementing VR applications over O-RAN, and emphasizes the importance of quality of experience (QoE) in the development of such inherently immersive and interactive applications. Finally, it analyzes the significance of artificial intelligence and machine learning methodologies in embedding QoE-driven operations in O-RAN architecture.