Huawei champions the development of 5.5G technology, anticipating significant steps in network infrastructure. Advocating for evolution and readiness, Huawei focuses on 5G-Advanced as a cornerstone of future telecom progression. However, global implementation poses challenges, with promising 5G speeds needing considerable network densification and negative trends in capital expenditure. As such, Huawei and other vendors are pivoting to cater to the enterprise market, favouring an immersive approach in changing market needs, instead of simply relying on network infrastructure investment.
Wales’s leading alternative telecoms provider – Ogi – has revealed plans to bring full fibre connectivity to Tenby, one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic seaside towns. Tenby is the latest of over 60 communities across south Wales to benefit from Ogi’s privately backed broadband rollout launched in 2021. Once work to connect around 5,000 premises in the town is complete, Ogi will be the leading alternative choice in much of west Wales.
Summoning a significant tide in the telecommunications sector, 20 notable European telco CEOS, under the GSMA, urge EU policymakers for a comprehensive revamp of the present regulatory environment. They key point is the mounting need for major tech corporations to contribute to telco infrastructure costs in the midst of a data traffic surge. However, critics argue such proposal infringes upon net neutrality principles and imposes a dual-end payments system.
Orange Marine continues to assert dominance in the subsea cable industry with the sophisticated ‘Sophie Germain’, an innovative vessel designed for comprehensive undersea cable care. This 100 meter long ship is home to a 450 kW ROV for precise optic cable maintenance. Moreover, it not only enhances connectivity globally, but also makes strides in sustainability by significantly reducing fuel consumption and slashing emissions. Remarkably, in a field with only 60 cable ships worldwide, Orange Marine introduces innovation that may reshape the future of global telecommunications infrastructure.
T-Mobile US’s reported negotiations with Tillman FiberCo to utilize their fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) infrastructure could significantly shape the retail fiber market. T-Mobile previously expressed interest in the fiber broadband sector, and partnering with Tillman could mitigate potential expenses of such endeavor. This potential venture aligns with Tillman’s recent strategic alliance with Northleaf Capital Partners, pooling $200 million for the FTTP rollout. While coverage plans remain unclear, this project is likely substantial and may lead to T-Mobile formally stepping into the fiber broadband landscape.
Intelsat’s recent partnership with Telespazio paints a promising image of the future of global network operations. With the inclusion of Telespazio’s premier teleport facility, Fucino space centre, into Intelsat’s network, seamless European connectivity is underway. Moreover, the alliance caters to the growing global demand for managed satellite services, elevating the standard for high-profile sectors, while improving geospatial communication. This precise move highlights the tremendous potential of combining flexible solutions for global positioning.
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.
