While many of us watch our signal bars waiting for 3G to become 4G, China-based Huawei is already focusing on the next generation — investing $600 million in 5G research. Don’t expect widespread commercial services immediately: functioning networks are not anticipated until around 2020. This investment continues a research program that began in 2009. At … Read more

Italy has reportedly intervened to block a proposed 5G supply agreement between Huawei and Fastweb, the Swisscom-owned telecommunications operator. Multiple sources speaking to Reuters say the Italian government stepped in to stop Huawei from providing core 5G network equipment to Fastweb. If confirmed, the move would align Rome with other European countries that have restricted … Read more

(c)iStock.com/pawel_p Commercial venues must provide certain essentials to customers: heat, light, water—and increasingly, reliable Wi‑Fi. In many places, offering a fast, secure, and free wireless connection is now as important as the physical environment and the quality of service. Whether it’s a bar, restaurant, shopping centre or airport, customers expect Wi‑Fi as a basic amenity … Read more

Most people realize that 4G will significantly change how we access mobile data, but fewer consider how it will reshape the competitive landscape among mobile network operators (MNOs). An independent report from the Yankee Group examines these effects and outlines strategic implications for operators, consumers, and the broader market. The race to launch 4G services … Read more

Media tycoon Rupert Murdoch’s proposed takeover of Sky has hit a significant setback after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) provisionally concluded the deal would not be in the public interest. The decision raises fresh concerns about media plurality and the potential for concentrated media ownership to influence public debate and political agendas. Murdoch controls … Read more

Zimbabwe has ordered a shutdown of internet services as security forces violently crack down on protests sparked by fuel price increases. Econet, the nation’s largest mobile operator, reported it had been instructed to cut off services. Access to widely used platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter has been intermittent since protests began on Monday. … Read more

(Image Credit: iStockPhoto/AndreyPopov) When telecom operators review their performance, they often find that roughly ten cities in a country generate about 60% of their revenue. Focusing only on those major cities—where competitors also concentrate—leaves significant untapped revenue in smaller towns and suburban areas. In a fiercely competitive market, that neglected potential can make a large … Read more

Investors are showing renewed confidence in ZTE after a sharp rise in the company’s share price following the reversal of its ban from the US market. The Chinese telecommunications equipment maker endured a difficult period after US authorities imposed a ban, citing violations of export controls related to North Korea and Iran. That action forced … Read more

The Hungarian government has announced a proposed new tax on internet service providers that could dramatically raise consumer bills and affect the broader economy. The proposal, introduced by Hungary’s Minister for National Economy, Mihály Varga, has provoked widespread criticism from industry groups and the public. Under the proposal, due to take effect in 2015, internet … Read more

As organisations adjust to a growing hybrid workforce, the demand for seamless connectivity and effective collaboration is more urgent than ever. A two-day Unified Communications event will take place at the Santa Clara Convention Center on 5–6 June 2024. The conference brings together industry leaders and technology experts to explore innovations shaping the future of … Read more