In a groundbreaking development, Rakuten Mobile, in partnership with Nokia, has successfully conducted a trial demonstrating the capability of transmitting data at a rate of 1 terabit per second (Tbps) over a single wavelength. This trial spanned an impressive distance of 820 kilometers across both subsea and terrestrial networks in Japan, setting a new benchmark in the Asia Pacific region for this level of data transmission.
Nokia unveiled specialized, private AI models for the telecom sector to improve network operations and customer service. A coalition of 10 governments agreed on principles for secure 6G networks. IBM and the GSMA have launched a global AI training initiative to bridge the AI knowledge gap among telecom operators. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X80 modem chip introduces 5G-Advanced support with up to 10 Gbps speeds and six-carrier aggregation.
Fujitsu Network Communications, Inc. has launched Virtuora® IA, an innovative suite of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered network applications. This breakthrough technology, designed to enhance the performance of mobile network operators (MNOs) with significantly streamlined operations, incorporates network-focused machine learning (ML) models and deep telecommunications expertise. By leveraging neural network modeling, Virtuora IA aims to offer MNOs a substantial edge in the competitive 5G arena and future markets.
Telenor, the Norwegian telecom giant, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Nvidia, marking a significant step towards integrating artificial intelligence (AI) within its operations and offerings in the Nordics. This ambitious initiative is set to transform Telenor’s business model, embedding AI into its network operations and creating AI-driven solutions for its customer base.
Telecom analytics titan Mobileum Inc. has been selected by NTT Communications Corporation for integrating its cutting-edge technology platform into the rapidly evolving global connected car market. Mobileum’s solution, composed of connectivity management, testing, and fraud prevention capabilities, aims to ensure continuous, secure connectivity, whilst addressing the associated rise in potential fraud threats.
In an ambitious move to enhance the United States’ emergency services network, AT&T, in partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority), has announced plans for a significant upgrade and expansion of FirstNet. This initiative, which could see an investment exceeding $8 billion over the coming decade, aims to build upon the network’s already extensive coverage and capabilities.
In a pivotal move, CELLSMART, Abundant IoT and TMR embark on an IoT convergence mission through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). CELLSMART, with its unmatched cellular knowledge, brings speed and on-the-ground engineering support, transforming IoT rollouts.
In a significant move towards enhancing developer access to advanced network capabilities, Ericsson’s Vonage has teamed up with telecommunications giant Verizon. This collaboration, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, aims to integrate Verizon’s network APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) into the Vonage platform. This integration is expected to foster deeper consumer engagement and loyalty by enabling enterprises to offer a more seamless and enriched customer experience across various stages of the customer journey.
BT, Ericsson, and Qualcomm demonstrated successful 5G network slicing trials for diverse applications, proving its potential to improve service quality in the 5G SA era. Disney invests $1.5 billion in Epic Games to blend its iconic franchises with Fortnite. D&H Distributing launches the Go Big AI Program to help partners use AI technologies. IPFone acquires VoIP company Joon to expand its cloud communication services and enhance offerings through synergistic technologies.
Local government digital leaders across England, Scotland, and Wales continue to prioritize gigabit broadband rollout, viewing it as essential for connectivity improvements, despite differing opinions on 5G and a lagging focus on environmental sustainability. This was highlighted in a recent survey conducted by FarrPoint, a UK-based connectivity consultancy, which released its findings from a December 2023 study involving councils from various regions.

