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The RIC is more than a RAN controller, however. It is also an open platform that can host RAN control applications developed by specialist software suppliers that are external to the RIC vendor itself. These "xApps" (near-RT) and "rApps" (non-RT) are among the primary reasons why the RIC is a compelling component of the O-RAN architecture. XApps and rApps will enable innovation-in the form of RAN control algorithms-to enter the RAN at a pace that is orders of magnitude faster than is the case with today's vendor-proprietary systems or centralized SON methods. Such innovation will help operators create differentiated network experiences that offer performance adapted to particular service types, user groups, or locations...