The emergence of 5G has ushered in a profound transformation in the telecom industry’s approach to charging, surpassing former phased shifts in monetization. It’s crucial for CSPs to establish a flexible charging system in tune with the fast-paced evolution of services, extending from 3G, 4G to fixed-line and 5G. Essential features of an effective charging mechanism certainly include flexibility, but also scalability and adaptability, to incorporate a range of services and adapt to continuous changes in service offerings. Network X, a standout telecom event, dedicates itself to exploring these issues and equipping attendees with strategic knowledge.
T-Mobile’s innovative union with Fliggs Mobile introduces an exclusive, completely digital Web 3 Mobile Virtual Network Operator that’s leading the path toward mass adoption of Web 3. This unique collaboration utilizes Fliggs Mobile’s innovative mobile app, complete with a non-custodial wallet, to provide users with access to Web3 and FinTech services, including cryptocurrency management. As this future-focused mobile service prepares for its official debut in 2024, it promises to attract not only technophiles but also the broader consumer base with its potential for simplifying and democratizing leading tech.
The telecommunications realm of Sweden and Denmark is on the brink of a substantial transformation, with Stonepeak’s impending acquisition of a 49% stake in Cellnex Nordics. Despite alterations in ownership, operational management remains with Cellnex. However, the agreement awaits regulatory approval, with full expectancy of completion by Q1 2024. The funding injection is anticipated to bolster Cellnex’s debt reduction strategy, aiming for a coveted S&P investment grade credit rating. Both parties share a positive outlook, viewing this step as critical in Cellnex’s broader shift towards consolidation.
The UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, has finalized plans to auction off mmWave spectrum for mobile services, with an eye on potential effects a pending Vodafone/Three UK merger might have. This move underscores the regulatory body’s diligent efforts to enhance 5G spectrum allocations, allocating citywide licenses to 68 major UK locations. Despite the anticipated delay due to the merger’s evaluation, Ofcom plans to award licenses on a first-come, first-served basis in less densely populated areas, promising a balanced landscape for both telecom giants and early adopters.
Nvidia aims to convince telecoms to use its GPUs in 5G networks, citing NTT Docomo’s recent GPU-accelerated 5G launch in Japan. Yet, the role of Nvidia’s GPUs in telecom remains unclear. Meanwhile, the FCC breaks a two-year deadlock, reigniting net neutrality debates. Telefonica Germany partners with Skylo for global IoT connectivity, expanding options for businesses and consumers. Nokia explores rugged 5G devices for harsh environments, catering to specialized industries with challenging conditions.
TalkTalk, a renowned Broadband ISP, recently unveiled plans for a radical transformation. The organization aims to split into three distinct operations: business, consumer, and wholesale. As this change signals a departure for current CEO, Tristia Harrison, successors are already being primed. This strategic move aims to enhance customer service, streamline operations, and diversify investment routes, despite looming debts and past acquisition attempts. The complete ramifications of this crucial split unfold at Connected North 2024.
Samsung Electronics and KDDI today announced the companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to form a 5G Global Network Slicing Alliance. Through this new alliance, the companies will work together to introduce an array of commercial 5G network slicing services and assess new business models based on this innovative technology.
In a game-changing move, Voneus aligns with Broadway Partners, Cadence Networks, and SWS Broadband, facilitated by Macquarie Capital, IIF, and Tiger Infrastructure Partners, alongside a hefty £250 million investment. Known for boosting superfast broadband in underserved UK rural areas, Voneus’ ambitious scope partnered with Project Gigabit has proven an investment magnet. Phantom impacts of this colossal merger are yet to unfold, but Voneus sets its sights on servicing 350,000 premises across the UK in a dynamic shift in the telecommunications sector.
A newly published study unveils a glaring disparity in the worldwide cost of mobile data. The US falls surprisingly behind at 219th globally, while other countries enjoy much lower prices. Yet on a brighter note, a trend of declining data costs emerges globally. Distinct transformations have occurred in countries such as the UK and India, with data rates significantly dropping over the years, serving as a promising glimpse into a future where consumers could get more worth for their money while enjoying mobile data services.
Swedish telecom giant, Ericsson, is making strides in harnessing the virtues of Open and Cloud RAN through a series of noteworthy offerings and trailblazing collaborations. Recent ventures with Telefónica on joint Cloud RAN trials underline a shared vision for a dynamic, open network architecture. This exploration goes beyond mainstream, incorporating automation and intelligent orchestration, with potential benefits to macro networks and enterprise applications alike. Ericsson’s commitment to open standards is further emphasized through successful deployment of radio hardware ready for next-gen open fronthaul technology and an intriguing pledge to offer an expansive Open RAN portfolio by next year.
