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.
Diving deeper into spatial computing realms, Qualcomm releases Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 and Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 platforms, enhancing user immersion through improved GPU performance, AI, and concurrent camera capabilities. Snapdragon XR2 aims at efficient virtual reality navigation while AR1 offers advanced features for smart glasses. However, despite the technological leap, the mass-market embrace of AR/VR innovations stays at bay. The question remains: will Qualcomm’s efforts be enough to spur the demand boost the industry awaits?
Iliad, the French telecom operator, steps up to redefine Europe’s AI landscape, unveiling a Nvidia DGX SuperPOD, the first in Europe. Aimed for their Cloud division, Scaleway, it aims to accelerate AI services for businesses while securing a technological edge. Yet, questions on ROI and sustainability lurk amidst innovation.
The EU’s first annual State of the Digital Decade report highlights an urgent call to action for increased investment to meet its 2030 technology targets. The report underlines the significance of collective efforts by member states to successfully navigate the prevalent digital transformation. The document illuminates areas such as 5G deployment, which has been slower than expected, and inadequate fiber network coverage, among others. Simultaneously, it draws attention to other essential aspects, like digital sovereignty and the digitalization of businesses, suggesting an additional investment of at least €200 billion may be necessary. Issues such as these could hamper the bloc’s ambition to double its share in the semiconductor sector by 2030.
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.
BT pushes forward with their ambitious plan to replace ageing Public Switched Telephone Network with IP-powered Digital Voice service, predicting a full national transition by 2025. This phased rollout highlights an industry-wide shift toward modern, energy-efficient, and highly reliable communication solutions. However, with earlier power outages prompting questions around adequate support during emergencies, the telecoms giant is treading carefully. As we brace for a digital era, join us at Connected North 2024 to delve deeper into what this change signifies for UK consumers.
Snom Technology, the globally established telecommunications hardware brand, has been providing the high-end hotel industry with premium handsets for years. These devices are widely regarded as an enormous asset to the industry, since hotel rooms still need to feature a telephone in order to win stars. Despite this, not every hotel wants sophisticated business phones in its guest rooms, as only a minority of people will need to use all the device’s functions.
Cloud communications leader Sinch and one of North America’s largest and most trusted membership organizations, AAA, are partnering to expand chat capabilities for individuals requesting roadside assistance. These changes will allow those stranded in remote areas to seamlessly connect with AAA for help.
