T-Mobile US and KKR have formed a joint venture to acquire Metronet, an Indiana-based ISP with over 2 million households served. T-Mobile’s $4.9 billion investment for a 50% equity stake aims to leverage Metronet’s fiber network, expanding T-Mobile’s broadband services.
CommScope is strategically divesting its Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and Outdoor Wireless Networks (OWN) units to Amphenol for $2.1 billion, bolstering its focus on enterprise Wi-Fi and wireline telecom. This move aligns with CommScope NEXT initiative for portfolio realignment, ensuring enhanced financial stability and innovation in high-value sectors.
Huawei has initiated legal action against MediaTek over alleged patent infringement, signaling a strategic move to monetize its extensive patent portfolio. With around 140,000 global patents, Huawei generated $560 million in royalty fees in 2022. As geopolitical tensions rise, Huawei’s patent enforcement becomes key in maintaining revenue streams and competitive edge.
SonicWall’s CSE is offering secure, cost-effective remote and internet access for cloud migrations. Alphabet is negotiating to acquire cybersecurity firm Wiz for $23 billion. Cresta’s 2024 State of the Agent Report shows U.S. contact center agents are enthusiastic about generative AI. Spanish trade unions have accepted Zegona Communications’ revised workforce reduction plan for Vodafone Spain.
Ericsson and Oppo have entered a multi-year cross-licensing patent agreement, reinforcing their collaboration on 5G projects and cellular technology advancements. Oppo will make royalty payments to Ericsson under this new arrangement. This deal bolsters Ericsson’s patent portfolio and demonstrates the efficacy of business negotiations in the VoIP and 5G sectors.
Viavi Solutions Inc. has partnered with the Telecom Infra Project (TIP) to enhance Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) testing capabilities through VALOR, its Automated Lab-as-a-Service. This collaboration aims to standardize Open RAN deployment, backed by a $21.7 million NTIA grant, improving supply chain efficiency and accelerating global adoption.
Verizon strongly opposes the Public Safety Spectrum Alliance’s proposal to allocate the 4.9 GHz band to FirstNet, operated by AT&T. Verizon argues this would disrupt competitive balance and unfairly benefit AT&T. This debate within the FCC could significantly affect public safety communications and commercial wireless use, making it a critical issue for the voip industry.
Singtel has announced a strategic partnership with Hitachi Digital to accelerate industrial AI solutions using Singtel’s Paragon platform. This collaboration focuses on integrating Hitachi’s AI applications with Singtel’s 5G, edge computing, and cloud services. The initiative aims to boost quality assurance, workplace safety, and pre-emptive maintenance, enhancing enterprise connectivity and productivity significantly.
LiveOak Fiber, a regional broadband service provider, has secured USD 250 million in financing to expand its fiber network in underserved Southeast U.S. communities. Since June 2022, LiveOak has rapidly grown, investing over USD 200 million and deploying 1,000 miles of fiber. This funding will enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
Actelis Networks, renowned for its cyber-hardened networking solutions for IoT, has announced a strategic partnership with Carahsoft Technology, a leading provider of IT solutions for government sectors. This collaboration will see Carahsoft distributing Actelis’ hybrid-fiber connectivity solutions to Federal, State, and Local agencies, as well as educational institutions in the U.S. and Canada through its reseller network and specific procurement contracts like NASA SEWP V and OMNIA Partners.
