Chinese telecom operators have successfully deployed expansive 5G networks across all cities and towns, with 90% village coverage. Utilizing 3.84 million 5G base stations, they lead globally. This vast network supports diverse industries, enhancing connectivity. As 5G technology advances, with plans to incorporate 5G-Advanced (5G-A) and AI, the future of telecommunications looks promising.
BT Group, Nokia, and Qualcomm have successfully tested 5G Standalone (SA) 5CC carrier aggregation at Adastral Park, making BT the first European operator to achieve this milestone. Utilizing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 5G Modem-RF system and Nokia’s 5G AirScale portfolio, the tests achieved downlink speeds of 1.85 Gbps, highlighting the potential of 5G SA.
Rogers Communications has partnered with Ericsson to test groundbreaking 5G Cloud RAN technology, marking its first deployment at a live event during a Toronto Blue Jays game. This advancement builds upon Rogers’ national 5G SA core network, enhancing technological capabilities, network reliability, and energy efficiency.
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.
ADNOC has teamed up with e& to deploy the largest private 5G network in the energy sector, spanning 11,000 square kilometers of operations. This ambitious initiative, aimed at boosting AI, IoT solutions, and operational efficiency, is projected to generate $1.5 billion in value by 2025.
Freshwave, in collaboration with CommScope, has unveiled a revolutionary small cell solution that merges 4G from all four UK mobile network operators into one system. Using CommScope’s ONECELL technology, the Omni Network by Freshwave ensures indoor LTE and 5G connectivity.
IBM has completed its acquisition of StreamSets and webMethods from Software AG for €2.13 billion. This acquisition significantly boosts IBM’s WatsonX AI and data platform by adding robust data ingestion and integration platform-as-a-service (iPaaS) functionalities. The move sets IBM to offer a cutting-edge application and data integration platform, focusing on hybrid cloud environments.
Singtel has announced a strategic partnership with Hitachi Digital to accelerate industrial AI solutions using Singtel’s Paragon platform. This collaboration focuses on integrating Hitachi’s AI applications with Singtel’s 5G, edge computing, and cloud services. The initiative aims to boost quality assurance, workplace safety, and pre-emptive maintenance, enhancing enterprise connectivity and productivity significantly.
Xavier Niel’s Atlas Investissement has proposed a $4.1 billion buyout of Millicom, a key telecom player in Latin America under the Tigo brand. Despite a rejected offer, Atlas aims to enhance Millicom’s network and distribution. Leveraging expertise from its 29% stake, Atlas seeks to drive growth and expand 4G services in rural regions.
LiveOak Fiber, a regional broadband service provider, has secured USD 250 million in financing to expand its fiber network in underserved Southeast U.S. communities. Since June 2022, LiveOak has rapidly grown, investing over USD 200 million and deploying 1,000 miles of fiber. This funding will enhance connectivity and bridge the digital divide.
