India’s leading telecom operators emphasize the urgent need for a robust spectrum roadmap. As India’s 5G landscape evolves, operators like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio highlight current spectrum allocations are insufficient for future demands.
Indus Towers has expanded its portfolio by adding over 16,000 towers through agreements with Bharti Airtel and Bharti Hexacom. This acquisition strengthens Indus Towers’ position in India’s telecom sector
Vodafone Idea is set to launch commercial 5G services by March 2025, entering the competitive field amidst Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio’s services started in 2022. Targeting 17 of India’s 22 telecom circles, Vi’s strategic approach involves upgrading 75,000 4G sites..
Ericsson has achieved another significant VoIP milestone, securing a multi-billion-dollar contract with Bharti Airtel, reinforcing its presence in India’s telecom market. This aligns with recent collaborations with Vodafone Idea to enhance 4G and introduce 5G services.
Singtel has made another divestment, selling a fractional 0.8% stake in India’s Bharti Airtel for approximately $711 million. It’s a part of Singtel’s ongoing strategy to transition from traditional telco operations to fully digital-based operations.
Securing a nearly $2 billion loan, Reliance Jio fortifies its ambition in the 5G arena. The funds will enhance Jio’s growth with the acquisition of leading-edge Nokia 5G equipment. Planning one of the fastest 5G rollouts, it’s further partnering with Samsung and Ericsson. Please note, success breeds competition and Bharti Airtel isn’t far behind.
As Three UK reports a 4% revenue boost, courtesy of an expanded active customer base, its operations cost, inflated by 19%, outpaces earnings, hinting at potential sustainability issues. In a different landscape, Telecom Italia shows a 5.5% Q2 profit increase, largely on Brazil’s performance, though competitive pricing in Italy has forced a hefty debt, leading TIM to consider selling its landline grid. At the same time, BT Group sees an uptick in revenue by 4%, attributed to raised prices and improved customer satisfaction. Contrarily, US-based Qualcomm, hit by reduced consumer spending, anticipates a similar upcoming quarter, resulting in a sharp fall in share price. Meanwhile, Bharti Airtel highlights a 14.1% YoY revenue increase, fueled by its growing 4G and postpaid customer base.
Starlink has secured approval to provide satellite broadband in India, entering a competitive field with Airtel and Jio. Backed by a key license, it must meet strict local data and infrastructure rules before launch. With trial spectrum rights expected soon, Starlink prepares to help bridge connectivity gaps in underserved regions.
Vodafone Idea’s shares fell sharply after the Supreme Court denied relief on massive dues. With stalled funding, mounting losses, and shrinking market share, the company faces an uncertain future. The state risks losing its investment as Vi teeters between collapse and survival.
Vodafone Idea is accelerating its 5G rollout across India with trials in Delhi and recent launches in key cities. Leveraging advanced energy-efficient infrastructure and AI tools, the company aims to boost network performance while expanding 4G coverage. Strategic partnerships and financial restructuring are central to its revival.
