In a groundbreaking move, Iliad and Vodafone are set to join forces in a strategic merger that has gained unanimous support from Iliad’s board of directors and its primary shareholder, Xavier Niel. The proposal aims to amalgamate Iliad’s ‘innovative approach to connectivity, affordability, and digital inclusivity’ with Vodafone’s expertise in the business-to-business (B2B) sector.
Vodafone’s potential sale of its Italian operations to Fastweb amid TIM’s anticipated network sales sets the scene for a transforming Italian telecom landscape. Amid these changes, Fastweb’s potential merger or acquisition of Vodafone appears rational due to current market dynamics. Nonetheless, political wrangling, rival suitors, and ever-changing regulatory landscapes act as potential roadblocks to this merging of forces. The news underlines the need for strategic shifts amongst Italy’s leading telecom operators amidst significant changes.
Ericsson, Vodafone, and Qualcomm Technologies recently pioneered data transmission via RedCap on a European network for the first time, unlocking a more streamlined, efficient mode of connectivity for IoT and other devices. Tested on Vodafone Spain’s 5G platform, the Ericsson’s RedCap technology enhances connectivity potential while providing economic and efficient data transmission. Furthermore, the demonstration introduced a new technology, New Radio Light, for extending battery life of customer devices.
In the face of declining shares, Vodafone’s bold recovery strategy is underway. The shift from a net profit to a loss has been attributed to several factors including missing operations, adverse foreign exchange movements, and losses from joint ventures. Nonetheless, CEO Margherita Della Valle is leading a restoration plan that includes improving customer service and expanding Vodafone Business.
Vodafone aims to bolster its shared operations with Accenture’s expertise, creating a strategic alliance that places emphasis on growth, customer service, and efficiency. Key investments into Vodafone’s in-house IT and networking unit “Vodafone Intelligent Solutions” (VOIS) will leverage Accenture’s proficiency in digital solutions and artificial intelligence. The partnership remains dependent on forthcoming definitive agreements, with hopes of conclusion by Spring next year.
Telecom News | Week #44: T Challenge, End of Vodafone Spain, Nokia’s Technology Strategy 2030, Samsung and O2 testing vRAN.
European telecoms investment firm, Zegona Communications, is reportedly in advanced talks with Vodafone to acquire a hefty stake in Vodafone Spain. Negotiations heat up amid rising competition in Spain’s telecoms market and looming industry-wide reshuffles. However, questions remain about the potential investment’s structure and implications for Vodafone’s balance sheet.
Vodafone’s recent triumph, a successful trial achieving 5 Gbps using the upper 6 GHz band for mobile signal transmission, highlights the upcoming decision on spectral band division at ITU’s WRC23. Through this trial, performed on Madrid’s Vodafone campus, engineers established the 6 GHz band can provide coverage on par with existing 5G networks.
Initiated by the UK government, the Shared Rural Network (SRN) aims to eradicate coverage black spots and ensure widespread 4G coverage. This project has been approached with differing bravado by top network operators. Juncture tensions arise as key operators plead for deadline leniency, while EE stands confident in its progress. All eyes are on the government’s response to this collective request while interest in the ongoing infrastructure debate climaxes. Stay informed as the narrative unfolds.
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.
