The Linux Foundation-led Ultra Ethernet Consortium brings AMD, Arista, Broadcom, and others together to refine ethernet architecture, addressing the escalating network requirements of AI and high-performance computing. Pledging to enhance ethernet performance, the alliance will leverage ethernet’s adaptability, ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness for diverse workloads. Aiming for a holistic tune-up rather than a complete overhaul, consortium endeavours will encompass detailed protocols, signaling mechanisms, and software solutions.
The UK’s newly established business council brings together heads of fourteen industry behemoths like AstraZeneca, NatWest Group, and Vodafone, offering insights to the Prime Minister on critical economic matters. It’s interesting that Google DeepMind is the only exception to the FTSE 100 list; also significant is the vocal Vodafone inclusion, led by CEO Margherita Della Valle, along with the impending departure of BT’s CEO Philip Jansen amidst a period of shrinkage. The absence of SME representation on the council has fueled criticism, underscoring the complexity and potential bias in shaping Britain’s economic future.
Spain’s government is pumping €448 million into the upgrade of over 8,000 isolated 5G base stations, an initiative set to stimulate economic and civil activity while bridging the digital divide. Interestingly, the bulk of the funds are being allocated to lesser-known entities, including wholesale and retail fibre providers Lyntia and Avatel. The rollout is part of Spain’s broader mission of delivering ultrafast broadband coverage by 2025, concurrently ramping up public access to high-speed connections. Furthermore, a €10 million fund invites proposals for innovative 5G projects in sectors such as agriculture and connected vehicles.
Outpacing the global auto industry, Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely, has launched a groundbreaking 5G-enabled factory in Ningbo, China. Developed alongside China Unicom Zhejiang, this advanced facility leverages 5G for superior data processing, revolutionizing car manufacturing customizability. However, obstacles such as infrastructure robustness and data security come with the territory of employing 5G in production processes. Nonetheless, the potential of this intelligent blend of automotive and digital tech seems irresistible, prompting worldwide industry attention towards Zeekr’s trendsetting venture.
Unveiling a battery and solar-powered 5G site in Texas, Ericsson demonstrates an innovative and eco-friendly approach to creating energy-smart network solutions. This next-generation site not only offers enhanced energy management, potentially trimming operational expenses and reducing energy consumption, but also hints at lucrative future revenue streams from selling excess power. As Ericsson continues to explore greener alternatives, it’s intriguing to see how telecom companies worldwide will adopt this sustainable model.
The South African telecom giant, Telkom, recently rejected an acquisition bid from a consortium led by its former Chief, Sipho Maseko. The bid, whose details remain undisclosed, sparked extensive board deliberations and was followed by a 7% fall in Telkom’s share price. CEO Serame Taukobong maintains, however, that offers for a takeover will remain on hold until viable proof of deliverability is presented.
Fibre builder Wildanet’s expansion into the Devon region could fuel an estimated economic surge of £1 billion by 2030, primarily through Gigabit-capable broadband, according to a new Curia report. This ambitious outlook, however, hinges on universal access to Gigabit broadband by 2030, a significantly higher benchmark than Wildanet’s initial target of reaching 25,000 premises. The firm’s dedication to end the digital disparity in rural Devon is so far supported by over 60,000 wireless connections, and plans to add 50,000 more by 2023. Meanwhile, additional funds from Gresham House could expedite the broadband rollout, making digital inclusion a tangible reality, even in the most remote locations. Despite this, digital desolation persists, with nearly 78,000 Devon inhabitants having never experienced internet access.
The future of telecommunications is rapidly changing thanks to the surge of Internet of Things (IoT) connections, with an anticipated 142 million 5G IoT roaming connections by 2027. This evolution promises increased speeds, reduced latency, and advanced services, setting the stage for a demand surge in standalone-specific 5G roaming agreements. However, despite these advancements, most connected devices will continue utilizing LTE-M and NB-IoT networks due to their compatibility with mixed traffic. A major hub for 5G IoT roaming is Western Europe, anticipated to host 21% of all such connections by 2027.
Speculations are intensifying concerning a potential merge between Dish Network and EchoStar. Recent developments fuel questions about the strategic motivations behind this corporate ‘re-marriage’. Despite Dish’s financial burdens and shrinking customer base, it’s making strides in mobile network expansion, while EchoStar’s strong financial standing and plans for a global 5G network radiate growth.
At the recent “5G Business Dialogue” during MWC Shanghai 2023, industry champions pondered on the positive impact of 5G adoption four years after its commercial introduction. Notably, it now makes up 10% of total revenue for China’s three providers. Furthermore, Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) services are noting considerable success due to swift user migration and industrial digitization. Innovation strides such as the Naked-eye 3D and 5G New Calling reflect the telecom sector’s future. However, with increasing Pan-Asian 5G uptake, the dialogue also ventured into the idea of “5.5G”, envisioned as a natural progression from its precursor. It’s intriguing to anticipate further transformative innovations within this industry.