The US Commerce Department has prohibited the use of Kaspersky security software across the United States, citing national security concerns. The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) determined that Kaspersky’s cybersecurity products pose “unacceptable risks” to US national security and public safety.
The anticipated turnaround in the augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) market remains elusive, as first-quarter shipments have once again plummeted. According to recent data from IDC, the volume of AR/VR shipments dropped by a staggering 67.4% compared to the same period last year. This decline follows a 54.4% drop in the first quarter of 2023 from the previous year.
Everton FC partnered with HPE’s Aruba to upgrade networking at their new stadium. Exertis and OpenText have enhanced their partnership to offer advanced security solutions. NEC and Ursa Space Systems are partnering to integrate NEC’s SAR satellite monitoring with Ursa Space’s global platform. Ericsson and Tomra collaborate to improve waste management with traceable recycling technology.
Accenture has announced its agreement to acquire Fibermind, an Italy-based network services company specializing in fibre, 5G network deployment, and infrastructure engineering. This acquisition aims to bolster Accenture’s capabilities and extend its network services to clients in telecoms, utilities, and transportation sectors.
Deutsche Telekom, SK Telecom, e&, Singtel, and SoftBank have officially launched a joint venture to advance AI technologies tailored for the telecommunications sector. These industry leaders aim to create Large Language Models (LLMs) specifically designed to enhance customer interactions through digital assistants and chatbots.
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.
Three UK has achieved a significant milestone in network sustainability through its collaboration with Ericsson, employing advanced AI-powered hardware and software. Over the past 18 months, the partnership has focused on modernizing Three UK’s network, significantly enhancing energy efficiency with cutting-edge technologies.
Singtel and KKR are set to invest $1.3 billion for a minority stake in ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC), marking the latest significant investment in the data center sector. The companies will initially acquire S$1.75 billion (US$1.3 billion) in redeemable preference shares and warrants, with a plan to invest an additional S$1.24 billion once the warrants are fully exercised.
Point Topic’s recent analysis reveals that global fixed broadband connections will rise to 1.39 billion by the end of this decade. While some regions will reach near-saturation, others will see significant growth opportunities.
UK-based telecom giant Vodafone is poised to divest its 21.5% stake in Indus Towers, according to undisclosed sources cited by Reuters. The company plans to execute the sale through block deals, involving transactions of at least 500,000 shares valued at a minimum of INR100 million ($1.2 million) per trading window.


