Vodafone Idea has struck a $3.6 billion deal with Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung to boost its 4G and 5G network capabilities over three years. This strategic move aims to expand 4G coverage and introduce 5G in select markets, enhancing their service offerings and network efficiency while meeting rising market demands.
This week, French mobile operator Free, owned by Iliad Group, announced the nationwide launch of 5G Standalone (SA) services. This makes Free the first to deploy 5G SA across France, activating it at 6,950 of its 20,000 sites. Experience higher speeds, reduced latency, and innovative applications, all at no extra cost.
MTN South Africa and ZTE Corporation have pioneered Africa’s first 5G maritime coverage near Mossel Bay. This leap in ocean-based connectivity promises to revolutionize tourism, fisheries, and the maritime economy while supporting ecological preservation. With over 210Mbps throughput 22 km offshore, 5G will enhance shipping, fishing, marine research, and rescue operations.
Celona, a U.S.-based private networks specialist, is advancing into the Chinese market through a strategic partnership with Xingtera. This collaboration aims to deploy Celona’s innovative 5G LAN solution across industries such as manufacturing and logistics. Supported by Oriental Cable Network and Inspur, the partnership enhances secure wireless connectivity and accelerates digital transformation.
Reliance Jio Infocomm has partnered with OnePlus to validate 5G network slicing at a new 5G lab in India. This innovative technique divides a single physical network into multiple virtual networks, enhancing the 5G experience.
Digital Nasional Berhad, Ericsson, and eMooVit Technology are pioneering Malaysia’s autonomous bus experience using 5G technology. The initiative, marked by a Memorandum of Understanding in May 2024, includes trials for 5G-enabled features like in-vehicle public Wi-Fi and real-time monitoring. These advancements aim to enhance passenger safety, operational efficiency, and smart city integration.
Ericsson is set to showcase its cutting-edge 5G innovations for railways at InnoTrans. Highlighting the 5G Corridor and Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), Ericsson aims to revolutionize passenger and freight transport with seamless communication, real-time updates, and enhanced onboard services.
Citymesh is revolutionizing public safety with its €10 million 5G drone network in Belgium. Expanding to 70 drones and 40 pilots, the “Safety Drone Shield” provides a national service across 35 rescue zones. Partnering with Nokia for 5G equipment, Citymesh sets the stage for future drone projects, enhancing emergency response capabilities.
EE has launched its 5GSA mobile network across 15 UK cities, including London, Manchester, and Glasgow, aiming to enhance mobile coverage and performance. Alongside this, the new Wi-Fi 7 Smart Hub Pro promises superior home broadband speeds and connectivity. These advancements position EE as a forefront leader in the UK’s cellular network arena.
Nokia partners with Rockwell Automation to test private 5G on the CBRS band, enhancing industrial automation using EtherNet/IP protocols. With successful integration of time-sensitive networking and ultra-reliable low-latency communications, this collaboration signifies a breakthrough for Industry 4.0 applications. Discover how private 5G network solutions are transforming industrial automation and connectivity.
