ITU announced a 6G framework, advancing global standards with a focus on spectrum bands, capabilities, and use cases. Eutelsat OneWeb and Imperial College are teaming up to transform space weather monitoring. Google launched Gemini AI model with flexibility to process diverse data types. SoftBank acquires 51% of Cubic Telecom, forming a strategic partnership for software-defined connected vehicles.
In a collaborative effort organized by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT), major Japanese companies DoCoMo, NTT, Sky Perfect JSAT, and Space Compass are set to pioneer direct-to-device (D2D) services utilizing flying base stations.
Unveiling a transformative pact in the maritime industry, Spain’s Sateliot and maritime container tracking leader T42 aim to revolutionize container tracking and monitoring with 5G-IoT technology. This exceptional venture will deploy thousands of 5G-IoT sensors linked to Sateliot’s LEO satellite constellation, promising unparalleled oversight over sea-borne goods.
Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT), NTT DOCOMO, and SKY Perfect JSAT join forces with Amazon’s Project Kuiper to turbocharge Japan’s telecom services. The partnership seeks to leverage Project Kuiper’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite broadband network, offering a breadth of connectivity to enterprises and government entities despite the nation’s geographical challenges. The strategic emphasis is on utilizing Kuiper’s capabilities for redundant communication networks, covering even hard-to-reach locations ramping up continuity of services after emergencies and natural disasters.
The UK government’s recent decision to continue a tax exemption policy marking network gear costs as deductible pre-tax profit boosts established telecom firms like BT, although smaller enterprises might not see similar benefits. This fiscal initiative heavily benefits BT in their £15 billion full-fibre project, increasing their capital spending by £300 million annually, expediting their fibre rollout to 25 million homes by 2026.
OneWeb, a Eutelsat entity, gained India’s coveted regulatory endorsement to usher in its satellite broadband service, evoking enthusiastic response from Eutelsat’s co-chair, Sunil Bharti Mittal. This development signifies a new era for India’s internet coverage in line with the Prime Minister’s digital vision. However, a crucial spectrum allocation by the government awaits, making OneWeb’s journey not entirely smooth sailing. An array of procedural and regulatory hurdles demands navigation, alongside competing market perspectives delaying the process.
Italian telecom provider Wind Tre faces hurdles in selling infrastructure due to complex 5G network sharing negotiations with rivals Iliad and Fastweb. CK Hutchison delays the deal closure by three months to February 12, citing challenges with Iliad and Fastweb. Meanwhile, Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison’s $6 billion merger in Indonesia with Huawei’s support achieves significant growth. France’s Orange introduces satellite broadband, while Norway’s Telenor sells its satellite operations. FCC’s new broadband rules target discrimination, raising concerns of unintended consequences. Mavenir and Nokia achieve remarkable Open RAN interoperability, overcoming past criticisms and showcasing commitment to multi-supplier systems.
As the year draws to a close, the Radio and Internet Services Department (RDI) is inching closer to launching private local spectrum licenses for enterprise clients. Set to equip them with the 3.5GHz spectrum and power the assembly of private 5G networks, this promises to transform sectors such as Virtual Reality and autonomous vehicles. However, some concerns have borne by airports and ports on fair allocation.
Marlink has teamed up with Eutelsat OneWeb to bring satellite connectivity to the luxury icebreaker cruise ship, Le Commandant Charcot. Their innovative hybrid network enhances both operationally and leisurely experiences, using layered, encrypted technology for robust security. Remarkably, it allows for separate crew and operational systems on one terminal and ensures unprecedented internet access in remote locations.
After the whopping $6.2 billion acquisition by Inmarsat, Viasat is readying for a major reorganization, with a planned 10% workforce reduction. The move, affecting approximately 800 roles, aims for a substantial year-on-year cost-saving starting from 2025. Despite the promising financial outlook, the firm accepts the substantial costs linked with these transitions, yet considers them a vital investment for the future.
