Deutsche Telekom and T-Mobile US Unveil AI Innovation Challenge
Deutsche Telekom and T-Mobile US are launching the fourth edition of the T Challenge, offering cash rewards for innovative AI-based telecommunications solutions. The competition aims to enhance network management and customer experience using AI and allows participants to collaborate with both companies. Cash prizes range from €35,000 to €150,000, with additional rewards for sustainability, ethics, and interesting presentations, potentially leading to product ownership by the organizers.
Vodafone Sells Spanish Division to Zegona Communications
Vodafone is selling its Spanish division to Zegona Communications for €4.1 billion in cash and €0.9 billion in redeemable preference shares. Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle cited the move as a step to focus on markets with sustainable structures and local scale, and it follows other recent changes to the company’s operations, including a merger with Three UK and significant job cuts. The Spanish telecom market is highly competitive, with Vodafone facing challenges from dominant players like Movistar, Orange, and MasMovil.
Nokia Unveils Technology Strategy 2030
Nokia has unveiled its Technology Strategy 2030, focusing on digital twin technology for traffic analysis, AI-driven network management, and service orchestration to enhance network design and operation. The strategy aims to create cognitive, automated ecosystems to address diverse needs and operating models. Nokia’s Global Network Traffic 2030 report predicts a significant increase in end-user traffic demand, with key drivers being AI, cloud, metaverse, APIs, industry 5.0, Internet of value, sustainability, and security.
Samsung and O2 to Test Advanced Telecom Technologies
Samsung Electronics and O2 Telefónica are partnering to test vRAN (virtualized Radio Access Network) and Open RAN technologies in Germany, focusing on adaptable network architectures and hardware-software separation. The initiative will start with lab tests in Munich, covering 4G and 5G vRAN and Open RAN technologies, followed by field tests in a commercial 5G network in Landsberg am Lech to achieve technical and operational readiness. Samsung will provide its vRAN software and Open RAN-compliant radios, and industry leaders like Dell Technologies, Intel, and Wind River will also participate in the commercial pilot, contributing top-tier solutions to advance the telecom industry.
