Vodacom and Orange have launched a joint venture in the Democratic Republic of Congo, focused on improving mobile network coverage through solar-powered base stations. This initiative targets expanding connectivity for underserved regions and enhancing mobile and financial services.
The UK government has granted IBM a crucial £1.6 billion contract for the Emergency Services Network. Vital for UK emergency communications, IBM’s solutions, backed by Samsung and Ericsson, promise enhanced voice-over-IP technology.
Cellnex is considering selling its Swiss tower business, collaborating with JP Morgan for a potential €1.5 billion valuation. This move is part of Cellnex’s strategic restructuring, involving shedding non-core units to focus on essential markets.
T-Mobile US has agreed to acquire Vistar Media for $600 million, expanding into the DOOH advertising market. This acquisition aims to enhance T-Mobile’s advertising capabilities by combining its customer data with Vistar’s technology, targeting more personalized ad experiences.
Chinese engineers have developed technology to sever undersea communication cables, sparking concerns over potential sabotage. Patents for devices intended to cut cables, including one by Lishui University, suggest a cost-effective method for disruption.
Nokia has partnered with TenneT to deliver optical networking for eight 2GW platforms in the Dutch North Sea, supporting renewable energy transmission. Using its 1830 PSS DWDM technology, Nokia will enable efficient data and energy flow, ensuring offshore wind energy reaches millions of homes across Europe.
Virgin Media O2 will deactivate its 3G network in Durham by April 2025 as part of a UK-wide shutdown plan. Customers with outdated devices are urged to upgrade to maintain mobile services.
Ericsson’s NetCloud Assistant (ANA) is a generative AI chatbot designed to enhance the management of enterprise 5G networks. Integrated with the NetCloud AIOps dashboard, ANA delivers personalized, efficient network diagnostics and configuration advice, improving operational speed.
The UK has unveiled a £14 billion AI Opportunities Action Plan to boost economic growth, create over 13,000 jobs, and transform public services. Key initiatives include AI Growth Zones, a National Data Library, and expanded computing capacity.
Vodafone has sold its remaining 3% stake in Indus Towers for $330 million, marking its exit from the company. Proceeds were used to settle loans and increase Vodafone Idea’s ownership to 24.39%.
