SoftBank and Eutelsat’s OneWeb have partnered to enhance communication services in Japan by integrating OneWeb’s LEO satellite connectivity. The multi-year deal will improve secure, reliable communications, particularly in remote areas. SoftBank’s SmartVPN service will benefit, and there’s potential for expansion abroad.
Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison (IOH) and Zurich have announced a groundbreaking partnership to integrate telecommunications and insurance services into a single app. This collaboration leverages Indosat’s expansive network and Zurich’s insurance expertise, aiming to enhance financial inclusion across Indonesia. The joint effort seeks to provide comprehensive protection, particularly benefiting rural and underserved regions.
Ogi has secured £45 million from the Cardiff Capital Region to expand its full-fibre network across South Wales. This investment will enhance connectivity in key areas, supporting economic growth and bridging the digital divide. The expansion aligns with broader UK efforts to improve digital infrastructure and boost regional development.
TalkTalk’s recent refinancing agreement, aimed at stabilizing its financial position, involves significant contributions from key shareholders pledging £170 million. The deal extends repayment deadlines for Revolving Credit Facilities and Senior Secured Notes to September 2027, giving TalkTalk more time to organize its finances and ensure long-term financial stability.
HORISEN and Vodafone Germany launch an innovative public transportation ticketing system, integrating Rich Communication Services (RCS) and Direct Carrier Billing (DCB). This collaboration simplifies fare purchases via mobile phones, enhancing user convenience. As part of Vodafone’s UPLIFT initiative, this project underscores a commitment to sustainable, digital transformation in public services, reflecting VoIP advancements.
China is investing over $6.1 billion in data centers as part of its “East Data, West Computing” initiative. This project, launched in 2022, aims to balance data storage in the east with processing in the resource-rich west. The funding has established eight computing hubs, bolstering China’s digital infrastructure amid US sanctions.
Ateme and Austria’s ORS Group have completed the world’s first IP-based Statistical Multiplexing (StatMux) trial over 5G-Broadcast, enhancing live streaming capacity. Utilizing Ateme’s NextGen StatMux, the trial, conducted in Vienna, showcased up to 20% efficiency gains and the ability to deliver multiple services in limited frequency bands, signaling a leap forward in broadcasting technology.
Nokia is expanding its R&D center in Chennai to enhance its fixed networks division, focusing on fiber, Wi-Fi, and fixed wireless technologies. The facility will develop advanced technologies like 10G to 100G PON and Fixed Wireless Access, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tamil Nadu government to bolster infrastructure and innovation in the region.
Vodafone has launched Europe’s first 5G mobile private network at the Temelín Nuclear Power Plant in Czechia, replacing traditional walkie-talkies. In partnership with ČEZ Group, this pilot project enhances safety and operational efficiency through advanced communication tools like augmented reality glasses, ensuring secure, independent data management within the plant’s systems.
Fujitsu is taking a bold step to popularize open All-Photonics Networks (APNs) by inaugurating a specialized lab in Düsseldorf, Germany. Scheduled to run from November 2024 to March 2025, this lab is the first outside Japan. This initiative aims to promote the global spread of Innovative Optical and Wireless Network, including APN technology.
