The race for 5G supremacy is intense, and LexisNexis IPlytics explores the landscape in their 2023 report. CEO Tim Pohlmann notes a significant surge in 5G patents, with the top 10 players owning 76% of declared patent families. The US leads in patent volume, followed by China and Europe. Huawei dominates the top 50 ranking. Pohlmann emphasizes the role of Chinese companies, particularly Huawei, in shaping the 5G sector, extending their influence to the automotive industry
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.
In a significant move towards advancing 5G network capabilities, Telenor and Ericsson have officially entered a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration aims to pioneer research, development, and testing of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) solutions, with a primary focus on enhancing energy performance without compromising network quality.
Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of a 49% interest in Cellnex Sweden and Cellnex Denmark (“Cellnex Nordics”), the Swedish and Danish operations of Cellnex Telecom (“Cellnex”), Europe’s largest independent operator of wireless telecommunications infrastructure, for a total value of c. EUR 730 million, of which EUR 558 million is recognized upfront.
Mitratel is significantly expanding its telecom mast portfolio with the purchase of 803 towers from Gametraco Tunggal, marking a strategic move beyond Java Island. This $113 million acquisition not only increases Mitratel’s infrastructure landscape but also welcomes 1,327 new tenants. The company’s ongoing investment in fiber optic networks aims to enhance tower operations, and crucially support the anticipated deployment of 5G networks in Indonesia.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has ushered in stricter guidelines on mid-contract price changes in telecommunications, increasing the burden of clarity for operators. Historically, telecom contracts often obscured potential price fluctuations, misleading customers with allusions of fixed prices. These deceptive tactics, often rooted in fine print legalese, have necessitated ASA’s initiative for more transparent advertising. With Broadband and mobile contracts especially susceptible to annual adjustments, providers must alert customers clearly about prospective changes.
Telefónica, the notable Spanish telecom giant, is hinting at sizable workforce reductions. Yet, figures conflict between reports, leaving uncertainty about the affected employee count. Amidst global economic instability, these layoffs align with Telefónica’s strategic shift to prioritize cash generation and operational excellence. Such a move echoes other industry leaders’ recent job cuts, suggesting a broader trend.
As Portugal’s telecom operator Nos marks two years of 5G services, it declares readiness to launch services on a new 5G standalone infrastructure. Despite the slower than expected progress, Nos’s move signifies a key contribution to the sector. Intriguingly, the viability and potential benefits of this new infrastructure remain a matter of debate. With collaborations with Nokia and Ericsson, Nos envisions a surge in ultra-low latency services.
In an ambitious collaboration, Ericsson is partnering with Concordia University, the University of Manitoba, and the University of Waterloo to bolster cybersecurity for 5G networks, utilizing AI and automation solutions. Their objective: foreseeing and mitigating network breaches for both current 5G and upcoming 6G networks while navigating increasing network stress and complex security requirements.
Cellnex, the infrastructure titan, is considering the sale of tower assets in Austria and Ireland in a push to offload financial burdens and deepen roots in the European market. This shift in focus, triggered by last year’s UK Hutch deal completion, aims for organic growth, investment-grade rating, and debt management via strategic divestments. CEO Patuano hints future cash generation post 2027 and potential interest in bidding for Deutsche Telekom’s GD Towers business, crafting a more efficient operational blueprint.
