Open RAN meets Semantic Communications: A Synergistic Match for Open, Intelligent, and Knowledge-Driven 6G

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Improving sustainability, enhancing spectral and energy efficiency, and bringing in-network intelligence and reasoning are the driving forces for 6G. In this context, semantic communications (SemCom) and open radio access networks (Open RAN) are emerging as focal points of research. SemCom is widely viewed as a disruptive paradigm that creates the possibility of knowledge-driven networks. On the other hand, Open RAN paves the way for open and programmable networks with native intelligence. This paper investigates the synergies between SemCom and Open RAN and introduces the concept of semantic-aware Open RAN. It presents the main architectural components and functionalities along with some of the key applications of semantic-aware Open RAN. It also conducts demonstration and evaluation of a remote WiFi localization built on semantic-aware Open RAN. Finally, it highlights some open challenges for semantic-aware Open RAN.