Enterprises across Europe recognize the power of AI and 5G to drive innovation, yet face major hurdles in adoption. Ericsson research reveals that outdated systems, skill shortages, and complex telecom solutions are stalling progress. While the UK leads in optimism and investment, many European firms struggle with rising costs and poor connectivity.
APFN has completed a major consolidation, merging five firms into two core entities: APFN for wholesale and Cuckoo for retail, both now owned by Fern Fibre. The company also launched aquila, a national fibre platform, and introduced new leadership, marking a pivotal shift toward streamlined operations and future growth in the UK.
The UK’s new Data Use and Access Act aims to boost the economy by £10 billion, streamline public services, and improve healthcare data access. It empowers consumers, enhances tech innovation, and strengthens digital ID systems, while also supporting bereaved families and construction workers.
ESA and Hispasat have launched a joint effort to develop secure quantum key distribution via satellite and terrestrial networks. The Q-Design project involves major telecom and banking players, aiming to roll out a versatile QKD system by 2028.
Amazon’s massive AU$20 billion investment in AWS cloud expansion in Australia marks a pivotal moment for the country’s digital transformation. Targeting Sydney and Melbourne, this effort enhances access to scalable cloud and AI services, meeting rising demands for generative AI solutions.
Mavenir has restructured its finances in partnership with Siris, wiping out over $1 billion in debt and securing fresh capital. The telecom software firm is retreating from its hardware ambitions in Open RAN to refocus on AI-driven software and core telecom services, betting on a leaner, more strategic path forward.
In a heated debate over AI reasoning, Anthropic challenges Apple’s flawed testing methods. The controversy highlights the need for improved benchmarks, as Apple’s evaluations misunderstood AI reasoning by treating models as text generators.
Deutsche Telekom and Nvidia are set to transform European manufacturing with the world’s first industrial AI cloud. This will utilize 10,000 Nvidia GPUs, revolutionizing AI-driven manufacturing by 2026. Prioritizing data protection, this initiative aligns with European standards, offering manufacturers cutting-edge resources.
Singapore’s state-owned firm Temasek is collaborating with Microsoft, BlackRock, and MGX to revolutionize global AI infrastructure, targeting a $100 billion investment. This ambitious AI Infrastructure Partnership includes enhancing AI data centers, showcasing AI’s transformative potential on industries globally, and aligning efforts with major global entities for rapid advancement.
Proximus and Thales have secured a vital contract to revamp NATO’s Communications and Information Agency’s IT systems, anticipated to enhance security and connectivity. This initiative, pivotal for NCIA, includes deploying secure cloud infrastructure and Wi-Fi, alongside vital services like cybersecurity and networking, ensuring efficient, forward-looking operations through 2029.
