In the narrative of AI revolution, the telecom sector often remains overshadowed. Juniper’s ‘Top 10 Telco Trends 2024’, highlights how AI dominates even in this crossroads digital landscape. However, a critical question evolves – is our telecom infrastructure ready to steer the AI wave? As we plan to create AI-powered golden era, it’s imperative that our static infrastructures are fit for purpose to manage this data deluge.
UK AltNets Freedom Fibre and VX Fibre Announce Strategic Merger Freedom Fibre and VX Fibre, both prominent UK alternative network providers, have announced their merger, solidifying their position in the market. The combined entity, operating under the name Freedom Fibre with CEO Neil McArthur at the helm, will boast a network spanning 285,000 premises. Freedom Fibre, established in 2020, specializes in wholesale-only services and maintains a strategic partnership with major UK broadband provider TalkTalk. With market consolidation gaining traction, this move is seen as a strategic merger to enhance business strength, diversity, and growth ambitions. Read full article. IBM Acquires StreamSets and webMethods for €2.13 Billion IBM has revealed its €2.13 billion cash acquisition of StreamSets and webMethods platforms from Software AG, majority owned by Silver Lake. These acquisitions, integral to IBM’s focus on AI and hybrid cloud, enhance application modernization and AI deployment capabilities. StreamSets contributes data ingestion capabilities…
SIPPIO, the global leader in voice enablement for Microsoft Teams and Zoom, is celebrating a year of substantial performance, with a 157% increase in year-over-year growth. Complementing this achievement, the company has secured a significant 45,000-seat commitment for Operator Connect from one of the world’s largest global service providers. This success highlights the surging demand for Microsoft Teams Phone and Zoom Phone, signalling a significant shift towards collaboration-based voice in the workplace.
In telecom news, global circular solutions provider TXO bolsters its sustainability commitment by acquiring network decommissioning specialist Lynx UK, expanding its team and global presence. Meanwhile, the FCC strengthens rules against telemarketing abuse, aiming to protect U.S. phone subscribers from unwanted calls. Enreach introduces a Contact App Suite for enhanced business connectivity, integrating voice and call control with Microsoft collaboration tools. Additionally, Tollring unveils Record AI, an affordable cloud call recording solution democratizing AI automation for improved customer experiences across organizational scales. These strategic moves signal advancements in telecom sustainability, regulatory protection, business connectivity, and AI innovation.
In a strategic move to fortify the European Union’s standing in the global cloud computing sector, the European Commission has greenlit a substantial €1.2 billion state funding injection. The funding is earmarked for the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) Next Generation Cloud Infrastructure and Services (IPCEI CIS), a collaborative initiative involving seven member countries: France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, and Spain.
Kansas has taken a significant stride towards improving statewide internet connectivity by allocating $28.5 million in grants through the Lasting Infrastructure and Network Connectivity (LINC) program. Aimed at bolstering broadband infrastructure, the LINC funding prioritizes achieving minimum speeds of 100/20 Mbps, enhancing internet exchange point facilities, and fortifying middle-mile infrastructure.
A new comprehensive guide has been launched aiming to enhance AI understanding among employees for optimal, safe use, subsequently improving performance. The guide addresses fundamental sectors crucial for handling AI and data securely, also spotlighting the use of advanced AI tools. It further divides the learning model into four distinct ‘personas’ based on the increasing level of AI literacy required.
Nokia, the renowned network equipment manufacturer, recently joined the Ultra Ethernet Consortium (UEC). Anchored by the Linux Foundation, the UEC fortifies Ethernet technologies to satisfy the escalating requirements of AI and high-performance computing. With members such as AMD, Cisco, and Microsoft, the consortium seeks to equip Ethernet with more advanced networking functions, while maintaining its simplicity and affordability.
Artificial intelligence pioneer, OpenAI has reversed its decision to dismiss its CEO, amidst signals of internal unrest and potential alliance with Microsoft. While OpenAI’s reinstatement of Sam Altman hints at a desire for stability, speculation abounds around Microsoft’s role and possible influence over OpenAI’s trajectory.
IDC predicts a promising future for the semiconductor industry, driven by AI advancements and a stock level recovery. With a refreshed outlook signaling sustainable growth, the firm anticipates global chip revenue of $526.5 billion in 2023. Progress can be seen in the revised revenue forecast for 2024, hinting at a 20.2% year-on-year growth to $633 billion.
