In a strategic twist for the VoIP sector, Altice has rebuffed a bold €17 billion bid from telecom giants Bouygues, Iliad, and Orange to acquire SFR assets. This move highlights the ongoing competitive dynamics in the VoIP market, emphasizing Altice’s valuation expectations while sparking discussions on potential regulatory implications within the telecom industry.
Virgin Media O2 has launched its 5G-enhancing Giga Sites in London, marking a major leap in UK mobile connectivity. Utilizing Nokia’s cutting-edge MIMO technology, these sites promise robust and speedy 5G, seamlessly blending spectrum bands for superior coverage and capacity. This initiative is vital to Virgin Media O2’s mobile transformation strategy.
Virgin Media O2 has unveiled its groundbreaking 5G Standalone network across 500 UK towns and cities, now covering 70% of the population. This vast rollout enhances mobile experiences with improved 5G coverage, speeds, and reduced latency, all at no extra cost. Virgin Media O2’s investments focus on advancing digital experiences, supporting innovations like autonomous transport and remote healthcare.
O2 has partnered with Freshwave to install small cells in St Ives and Newquay, boosting mobile coverage at popular tourist spots. The move supports Cornwall’s residents and visitors ahead of the busy summer season, forming part of O2’s wider £700 million network investment plan and Freshwave’s national infrastructure projects.
GIC has acquired a 25 percent stake in a major fibre network joint venture between Vodafone Spain and MásOrange. The venture, named Surf, aims to cover 12.2 million premises, making it Spain’s largest fibre network operator.
Virgin Media O2 is expanding its small cell network to Bristol in partnership with Ontix. The initiative, part of a £700 million plan, boosts 4G and 5G capacity in crowded urban areas. Recent spectrum acquisitions from Vodafone will strengthen coverage and support key partnerships.
Ofcom has cut mobile spectrum fees by 26% in key bands, saving operators around £60 million annually. Its latest Mobile Matters report shows 5G now makes up 28% of connections, with EE leading in 5G users and Three offering top speeds.
The Shared Rural Network (SRN) is revolutionizing rural connectivity in Wales by unleashing 30 government-funded 4G mast upgrades. Enhancing mobile connectivity in areas like Llangernyw and Eryri National Park, the SRN empowers local businesses and residents.
AT&T’s nationwide 5G RedCap network enhances IoT applications with energy-efficient solutions, transitioning from the decommissioned NB-IoT network. RedCap supports devices like wearables and AR gadgets, marking a shift to cost-effectiveness.
CityFibre has secured a remarkable £2.3 billion funding to accelerate its expansion in the UK’s altnet market. This financial boost includes £500 million in new equity and a £960 million debt extension, aiming to strengthen CityFibre’s position against competitors like Openreach.
