Verizon launched the AI-powered Verizon Business Assistant to help small businesses automate customer interactions. The tool answers common questions instantly and connects users to live agents for complex issues.
Verizon has set a new precedent with its recent achievement of 1.6 Tbps speeds over its live fiber network. This milestone, using cutting-edge WaveLogic 6 Extreme technology, meets the surging demand for AI data processing efficiently.
SoftBank and Eutelsat’s OneWeb have partnered to enhance communication services in Japan by integrating OneWeb’s LEO satellite connectivity. The multi-year deal will improve secure, reliable communications, particularly in remote areas. SoftBank’s SmartVPN service will benefit, and there’s potential for expansion abroad.
The wireless telecoms industry experienced growth due to 5G technology. Telstra and Optus will stop pre-installing Google Search as the default on their Android phones. A MedUX report ranked UK fixed broadband providers. The WBBA urges IP network upgrades for 5.5G and 6G services.
Verizon launches AI-driven apps to improve customer service by streamlining interactions. The European Commission designates Booking.com as a ‘gatekeeper’ and plans antitrust charges against Microsoft for bundling Teams with Office. Telstra establishes a regional network hub in Guam at GNC iX data center. GlobalData underscores US telcos’ struggle to stand out in the B2B channel.
In a significant move, Australia has auctioned off 3.4 GHz and 3.7 GHz spectrum bands, amassing a considerable A$722 million. Telstra emerged victorious, with plans to enhance its 5G offerings, notably in rural Australia. However, Telstra’s rivals also secured frequencies, with speculation around their strategic plans. ACMA chair affirmed the benefits of this allocation for digital connectivity and competition, reflecting the shared optimism of telecom regulators and companies.
One New Zealand’s strategic acquisition of local operations from UK-small cell provider Dense Air aims to strengthen mid-band spectrum. Promising enhancements to fixed-wireless access services, this merge incorporates a significant 70 MHz of spectrum into One NZ’s 4G and 5G networks. This move aligns with the company’s efforts towards modernizing its network, hinting towards a customer-centric future with expanded 5G network and possible SpaceX collaboration.
EXA Infrastructure, the largest dedicated digital infrastructure platform connecting Europe and North America, has appointed David Gonzalez as Vice President of Sales to lead customer growth for Southern Europe. Based in Paris, David brings more than 20 years of telecom experience to EXA having worked at Orange, Colt Technology Services, Tata Communications and Telstra. His expertise across enterprise markets will support EXA’s focus as it extends across new customer segments. On David’s appointment, EXA’s Chief Commercial Officer Nicholas Collins said: “David’s deep understanding of the telecommunications industry, his strategic acumen and customer-driven leadership will make a valuable addition to our leadership team. We are excited to welcome him to the team and are confident that his leadership will accelerate our growth trajectory in Southern Europe”. In this newly created leadership role, David will spearhead EXA’s sales strategy and be accountable for leading a team serving customers across France, Italy, Spain,…
Huawei plans a comeback in the smartphone market with new 5G devices using domestic chip supplies. Concerns persist about the quality of these chips and Huawei’s absence from the Android Play Store. CityFibre challenges Openreach with a faster wholesale FTTH service, while Optus collaborates with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand mobile coverage in Australia’s remote areas. Ofcom investigates O2 Virgin Media over customer complaints, and the European Court of Justice rejects a ruling on the Three-O2 merger, adding to the uncertainty in the telecommunications regulatory landscape.
GSMA welcomes China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom to the Open Gateway initiative, aiming to enhance services and boost 5G connectivity through API-driven single access points. Collaboration between operators, developers, and cloud providers promises new opportunities and transformative benefits.
