Luxembourg’s Prime Minister and SK Telecom have inked an agreement, initiating a strategic collaboration to advance the quantum tech ecosystem. Connexion between this MoU and an earlier South Korean – Luxembourg agreement hints towards a momentous ‘quantum Internet of Things’. Meanwhile, telecom operators globally look to leverage quantum technology’s disruptive potential towards traditional data security protocols. SK Telecom, recognized for its pioneering quantum work, also boosts its pursuit in the AI realm, underlined by a significant investment in AI firms.
The European Commission is urging member states to conduct shared risk assessments in key tech realms including advanced semiconductors, AI, quantum tech, and biotech. Amidst the cloud of geopolitical tech skirmishes, EU stands poised to protect sensitive technologies and is resolved not to preemptively decide on any corrective measures. Only time will reveal the Commission’s next steps after risk assessments.
As Vocus’ exclusive negotiation period with TPG Telecom for the proposed fiber business acquisition concludes, talks remain in motion. Delays in due diligence hint at finance-related stumbling blocks, though TPG stays open to other potential bargains, igniting a scenario of anticipation and suspense within the telecom domain.
The recent signal disruptions experienced by Sky Mobile users in the UK have been linked to the government-mandated removal of Huawei equipment from the network, fuelling concerns over national security. Network operators have voiced scepticism, predicting significant disruption, increased expenses, and potential delay in the rollout of 5G infrastructure. Sky Mobile, however, assures compliance with the directive and minimal impact on their customers.
CNAM, or Caller Name Delivery, goes beyond Caller ID by revealing the caller’s name associated with their phone number. It enhances call identification, trustworthiness, and streamlines communication. Users can quickly recognize callers and identify potential spam calls, making it invaluable in various communication platforms. Check with your service provider to embrace CNAM’s power.
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.
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.
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.
Amid growing inflation and swelling telecom budgets, the advent of 6G brings in costly implications tied to Radio Access Network (RAN) equipment. As these financial implications loom, The Next Generation Mobile Network (NGMN) Alliance proposes a different approach to 6G implementation that may spare existing 5G infrastructure from unnecessary renewal. They advocate an operator-driven decision process in refreshing the 5G RAN, maintaining that 6G upgrade should not compromise 5G user experience and should be software-upgradable on existing network elements. As 5G capex reaches its peak in markets like the U.S., NGMN’s stance could potentially redefine traditional strategies in introducing new generations of mobile technology.