SK Telecom’s collaboration with AI pioneer Mars Auto, brings forth a compelling vision for autonomous trucking, leveraging SKT’s 5G prowess and Mars Auto’s AI system. With Mars Auto’s AI armed with extensive roadway data from SKT, there’s a promise of safer, more efficient self-driving services. SKT’s continued strides in telecom, signified by the company’s alliance with Deutsche Telekom and massive investment in AI firm Anthropic, show signs of transformative potential for the telecom sector.
UK’s major mobile infrastructure entities have formed the Mobile Infrastructure Forum, aiming to boost wireless connectivity across the UK and improve network rollout efficiency. Meanwhile, industry insiders are lobbying for a smoother operation process, amidst challenges like mast site location and negotiation with landlords.
The looming merger of Vodafone and Three in the UK sparks heated debate. Anticipated job creation sits around 12,000, yet union estimates portend a job cut of around 1,000 to 1,600. Amidst global job-shedding by Vodafone and Three’s concerning job loss record, an £11 billion pledge to enhance network coverage brings a glimmer of hope. However, hazy figures on staffing levels and possible challenges accessing skilled labor add to the uncertainty.
NAVIGATE, part of the UK’s ONE competition, involves renowned telecom providers NEC and Freshwave, working to create a neutral host small cell solution for areas with high signal demand. This project, backed by a substantial £7.42 million funding, aligns with the UK Government’s goal of diversifying the 5G supply chain and nurturing Open RAN spaces. NEC and Freshwave will develop an energy efficient, financially viable solution based on NEC’s Open vRAN software that could significantly boost the multi-operator neutral host network. As the UK joins forces with Australia, Canada, Japan, and the US in the Global Coalition on Telecommunications, this project may herald an inventive, cooperative future for the telecoms industry.
Thierry Breton, Internal Market commissioner of the European Commission, is advocating for a unified European telecoms market, anticipating advancements in growth, innovation, and swift adaptability to emerging technologies. Arguing against the current market fragmentation, he believes regulatory easing on issues like spectrum acquisition could invite investors to support future networks. Simultaneously, telecom operators suggest cross-border consolidation as a potential path when local financial conditions improve.
Ericsson’s internal reshuffle sees Chris Houghton step into the role of COO and Åsa Tamsons as Head of Enterprise Wireless Solutions. Houghton’s focus will be on group-spanning initiatives like cost-efficiency drives, while Tamsons aims to fast-track breaking even for her division. However, with senior team members stepping down and Jan Sprafke being appointed Chief Compliance Officer, Ericsson shows no signs of slowing its innovative drive amidst industry changes.
Spanish telecom titan Telefónica is allegedly exploring a potential divestment from its successful subsidiary, Telefónica Tech. With a speculated valuation over €2 billion, Tech has made impressive strides in sectors like cybersecurity and IoT. However, despite robust revenue growth, the benefits of Tech to Telefónica’s overall operations remain ambiguous. Will Telefónica cash in, or continue cultivating this promising asset? Insights may be revealed in the CEO’s upcoming strategy announcement. Stay informed as we delve deeper into this intriguing possibility.
Nepal’s move into 5G has hit a deadlock due to geopolitical tensions, resulting in halted trials. Interestingly, at the heart of the issue is the importation of necessary equipment from Chinese firms amid corruption allegations and international contentions over security. The telecom industry in Nepal fears this impasse may set back tech enhancements, revealing global tensions’ significant impact on local infrastructures.
Wales’s leading alternative telecoms provider – Ogi – has revealed plans to bring full fibre connectivity to Tenby, one of Pembrokeshire’s most iconic seaside towns. Tenby is the latest of over 60 communities across south Wales to benefit from Ogi’s privately backed broadband rollout launched in 2021. Once work to connect around 5,000 premises in the town is complete, Ogi will be the leading alternative choice in much of west Wales.
BT pushes forward with their ambitious plan to replace ageing Public Switched Telephone Network with IP-powered Digital Voice service, predicting a full national transition by 2025. This phased rollout highlights an industry-wide shift toward modern, energy-efficient, and highly reliable communication solutions. However, with earlier power outages prompting questions around adequate support during emergencies, the telecoms giant is treading carefully. As we brace for a digital era, join us at Connected North 2024 to delve deeper into what this change signifies for UK consumers.
