Telecom equipment expenditure in North America experienced an unexpected downturn in the first half of this year. Despite global telecom hardware revenues remaining steady, North America’s marked decline significantly impacted the total number. In contrast, other markets, particularly Asia-Pacific, showed robust growth. The reasons behind North America’s decline extend to slowing 5G expenditure and reduced spending on broadband access equipment. Looking ahead, no major global alterations are anticipated, though the volatility of the telecom industry hints at potential changes.
Phoenix Tower International has bolstered its French network with two acquisitions totaling 1,978 sites, strategically placed in populous regions. With the latest addition of SFR-hosted and Bouygues Telecom sites, PTI’s French portfolio now stands at 3,600 sites which is expected to surpass 5,000 within two years. CEO, Dagan Kasavanas highlighted how these acquisitions will enhance wireless connectivity across France, positioning the country as a key player within PTI’s 21-country operation range.
Notable declines in Open RAN and vRAN revenues for Q2 2023 have been reported by Dell’Oro, suggesting a potential year-on-year reduction if trends continue. While shrinkage was notable across the Americas and the Asia Pacific region, Europe continues to enjoy growth. Nevertheless, the overall RAN market lacks significant growth, making future predictions challenging about these emerging technologies’ share when 6G becomes widespread.
The US government has recently provided clarity regarding foreign equipment purchases under the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) programme. The emphasis is on minimizing exceptions to ‘buy American’ rules, particularly reflected in the fibre-optic sector. Notwithstanding, one significant provision allows sourcing glass used in fibre optics from overseas. This comes as a relief for firms worried about supply sufficiency and costs. The spotlight of foreign vendors, meanwhile, is potentially electronics, with proposed exemptions including most semiconductors.
EXA Infrastructure, the largest dedicated digital infrastructure platform connecting Europe and North America, has appointed David Gonzalez as Vice President of Sales to lead customer growth for Southern…
Bringing 4G to the UK’s remotest realms, Three UK has established 100 dedicated sites through the Shared Rural Network (SRN). This initiative enhances coverage by around 2,800km2, reaching over 37,000 new premises. However, with the ambitious goal to extend 4G coverage to 95% of the country by 2025, one can’t help but ponder, is the UK on pace to meet this target? Participate in the discussion at the Connected Britain digital economy event.
Telephone company Veon has announced a significant infrastructure initiative with Rakuten Symphony, aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s telecommunications framework. This strategic move will involve an extensive roll-out of Open RAN enabled 5G networks, forming the backbone for new digital services. Veon’s $600 million commitment signals confidence in Open RAN’s transformative potential and Rakuten’s proven commercial implementation acumen.
Ex-Vodafone CEO Nick Read joins global fiber giant EXA Infrastructure as chairman, offering leadership to drive strategic network expansion and commercial growth in the rapidly evolving telecom industry.
VEON commits $600 million investment via Kyivstar for Ukraine’s recovery, focusing on infrastructure, 4G expansion, cybersecurity, and community support, fostering accelerated digitalization and rebuilding efforts.
KPN acquires Primevest Capital Partners’ fibre infrastructure, extending coverage to 127,000 homes in major Dutch cities, as it aims to cover 80% of the Netherlands by 2026 and enhance customer experience.
