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.
Zoom has unveiled a series of innovative upgrades aimed at enhancing user experience on its platform, emphasizing stronger connections, increased productivity, and seamless collaboration. The introduction of new AI Companion capabilities, alongside improvements in Zoom Team Chat, Zoom Whiteboard, and Zoom Meetings, positions Zoom as a frontrunner in leveraging artificial intelligence to facilitate workplace communication.
In a recent analysis by ABI Research, the future looks bright for neutral host providers, with projections pointing to a significant revenue increase. By the year 2030, it’s estimated that neutral host connectivity will rake in revenues of around $1.3 billion. Although the current market size remains unspecified, this figure highlights the substantial growth potential for the sector.
Neterra, a telecommunications trailblazer for nearly three decades, recently secured the prestigious ‘Best Central & Eastern European Carrier’ award at the Global Carrier Awards 2023. In an exclusive interview with Svetoslava Bancheva, the PR and Digital Communications Manager, Neterra’s evolution from providing Bulgaria’s first internet connection to becoming a global telecom solution provider unfolds. Svetoslava highlights pivotal milestones, including running submarine cables under the Danube River and the establishment of the Sofia Data Center.
Ofcom, the UK’s telecom regulator, wields new measures to curb fraudulent calls and misuse of Calling Line Identification data internationally. This initiative directly targets scammers exploiting loopholes to feign UK numbers. While exceptions exist for legitimate overseas use, maintaining the balance without obstructing genuine calls is an imperative yet challenging pursuit.
Stage X won South Korea’s fourth mobile operator spot with a $322 million bid for 5G spectrum. Yellow.ai and Infobip have partnered to enhance global customer support through AI-driven voice automation and conversational experiences.
Breezeline invests in a 525-mile fiber network to boost internet for 45,000 homes and businesses in New Hampshire. DARPA, in partnership with Nokia’s Bell Labs and others, aims to develop a sustainable Moon base with a robust telecom network to support future Mars expeditions.
Allison Kirkby has officially taken the reins at BT, unveiling her first set of financial results as the company’s new chief executive. The figures, reflecting the final quarter of 2023, show a modest increase in revenue to £5.3 billion, up from £5.2 billion, with adjusted EBITDA holding steady at £2 billion. This performance was bolstered by positive developments within Openreach and the Consumer division, though slightly hampered by the challenges faced by BT Business, including cost issues and a downturn in legacy product sales.
Alternate network operators, the so-called ‘altnets’, are on the cusp of revolutionizing digital infrastructure with their subscriber-tailored fibre networks. Brand trust and consistency are crucial in this venture, eyeing lifelong monetization rather than mere reach. This extends beyond merely providing a network ‘highway’, enhancing user experiences. While speed and pricing have been traditional differentiators, custom in-home experiences are now taking the spotlight.
Forging a powerful alliance, Virgin Media O2 and Tesco affirm a ten-year extension of their two decade-long partnership, potentially marking a new era for Tesco Mobile, UK’s leading mobile virtual network operator. With over 5.5 million customers, and a recent 9.4% increase in sales generating £970 million in revenues, this joint venture shows no signs of slowing down.
In an effort to bridge the digital divide in south and east London, the ‘Sub-regional Digital Infrastructure Strategy’ has been proposed. Over 156,000 premises in these areas lack comprehensive digital coverage, creating what is known as a ‘not spot.’ The strategy seeks to rectify this through interactive tools, infrastructure rollouts, and increased commercial investment, in a bid to transform London’s digital landscape.
