This week, French mobile operator Free, owned by Iliad Group, announced the nationwide launch of 5G Standalone (SA) services. This makes Free the first to deploy 5G SA across France, activating it at 6,950 of its 20,000 sites. Experience higher speeds, reduced latency, and innovative applications, all at no extra cost.
American Tower Corporation has completed the sale of its Indian operations to Data Infrastructure Trust for INR 210 billion ($2.5 billion). This significant move enhances DIT’s portfolio to 257,000 telecom sites, surpassing Indus Tower.
AST SpaceMobile’s five BlueBird satellites are set to launch on September 12, heralding the start of their commercial non-terrestrial network services in collaboration with carriers like Verizon and AT&T. This pivotal event not only enhances global cellular connectivity but also signifies a major milestone in low Earth orbit telecommunications.
Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) will shut down 3G networks by December 31, 2025, to bolster 4G LTE and 5G services nationwide. This shift, part of Qatar National Vision 2030, aims to optimize spectrum resources, enhance telecommunication service quality, and drive economic diversification. VoIP users will enjoy improved connectivity and efficiency.
Three’s 5G network now reaches 62% of the UK’s population, expanding to 656 locations and 4,900 sites nationwide. This growth in Three’s 5G coverage is part of a strategic push to enhance 4G services and significantly expand 5G capabilities, aiming to elevate the UK’s digital infrastructure.
Recent research by Vodafone reveals significant readiness among UK companies to invest in 5G Standalone (5G SA). 39% of businesses are prepared to invest in 5G SA now, with 14% planning to do so within a year. 93% of companies see reliable data connections as vital for success, reflecting the importance of 5G SA in business transformation.
The National Advertising Review Board (NARB) has urged AT&T to revise its claims about its Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) following a challenge from T-Mobile US. AT&T’s advertisement implied the advanced VoIP service is operational, which is misleading. Transparent communication in the evolving VoIP and satellite communications landscape is essential.
Vodafone launches LTE-M, an LPWAN technology for IoT devices with low data and power needs. Converge ICT partners with Ribbon to triple its fiber network capacity. Nokia partners with BxA to enhance its Network as Code platform for healthcare applications. Hayo launches a global IoT platform for MNOs and enterprises, enhancing efficiency and connectivity with cloud-native technology and AI.
AST SpaceMobile is gearing up for a significant milestone with the upcoming launch of its first commercial satellites. Set for early August, the five new Bluebird satellites will enhance the company’s ability to offer non-continuous commercial VoIP services. Once deployed in low Earth orbit, these satellites will revolutionize remote mobile coverage via direct-to-device communications.
SonicWall’s CSE is offering secure, cost-effective remote and internet access for cloud migrations. Alphabet is negotiating to acquire cybersecurity firm Wiz for $23 billion. Cresta’s 2024 State of the Agent Report shows U.S. contact center agents are enthusiastic about generative AI. Spanish trade unions have accepted Zegona Communications’ revised workforce reduction plan for Vodafone Spain.
