While the UK initially took the lead in 5G deployment, recent metrics suggest a shift, with the UK now trailing behind other countries in 5G download speed and coverage. Despite these setbacks, the UK’s 5G journey is far from finished. This communication revolution isn’t just about winners or losers, but about creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, thus promoting economic growth and job creation.
“Project Gigabit”, the UK government’s £2 billion initiative, aims to expand high-speed broadband in hard-to-reach communities. With a vision of future-proofing Britain’s connectivity, the project seeks to connect 80% of the nation by 2025. However, ensuring equal internet access brings pressing questions, such as the cost-effective efficiency of Low Earth Orbit satellites and balancing 4G and 5G network enhancements to avoid inadvertent digital inequality.
EXA Infrastructure, the largest dedicated digital infrastructure platform connecting Europe and North America, today announced that it was awarded three awards at the annual Antonio Meucci Global Telco Awards last night in Madrid.
Telecom operators tapping into satellite partnerships could see a tremendous financial boost, as Juniper Research predicts a revenue uplift of US$17 billion from 2024 to 2030. With reliable geostationary orbit satellites from operators like SES and Intelsat, these partnerships promise dependable connectivity and advanced billing infrastructure to a broad customer base. Significant advancements are expected within the satellite-based 5G network landscape, transforming coverage, throughput, and resilience.
Navigating the ‘Right First Time’ operations in FTTP networks, especially in a highly competitive UK landscape, can be challenging. The advent of computed vision presents a transformative solution, using machine learning to detect anomalies and streamline operations. This technology raises the bar for operational standards, while reducing time, cost and errors, driving forward the future of FTTP operations in the UK.
Dutch telecom company Veon is adjusting the course of its Russian sector, VimpelCom’s, management buyout, initially agreed for $2.1 billion. The transaction now fully hinges on VimpelCom absorbing part of Veon’s debt – a method born from necessity as sanctions hamper Russian financial institutions. This strategic exit is further complicated by EU sanctions on Russia’s National Settlement Depository inhibiting interest collection on Veon’s Eurobonds.
As the world navigates towards an AI-integrated future, the call for reliable connectivity has amplified. The UK’s telecom market, a beacon of global standing, is pivoting towards this demand. Its thrust for seamless connectivity is stimulated by the push for efficient network management and shared infrastructure. Spearheading this transformation is the UK’s transition to fibre optics, aided by the strategic decision to sunset the Public Switched Telephone Network by 2025.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper and Vodafone join forces to bolster 4G and 5G availability in Europe and Africa using cost-effective low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This partnership aims to connect distant cellular antennas to core networks, enabling telecom services without relying on intricate fibre-based systems. With a larger goal of bridging the digital divide, the collaboration also plans to offer backup services for disruptions and connect distant infrastructure.
In a record-breaking flurry of innovation submissions, the Connected Britain Awards are turning the spotlight on frontrunners shaping the UK’s digital frontier. The anticipation builds as the official shortlist for 2023 announces contenders across 15 award categories.
Vocus, a well-known fibre operator in Australia, is in high-stakes discussions for a $4.2 billion bid on crucial assets of TPG Telecom, including Vision Network, its wholesale infrastructure arm. Although the deal is far from done, Vocus’ ambitious plans to strengthen its market presence make it a possible game-changer in Australia’s rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape. The telecom industry keenly observes how this potential acquisition will shape the competitive arena.
