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Category: Telecom

Retail News Asia is committed to providing both local and global retailers with the latest Telecom & Telco news throughout the Asian market. This on a daily base.

  • Global Telecom Equipment Revenues Fell 11% in 2024

    Global Telecom Equipment Revenues Fell 11% in 2024

    This indicates the largest annual decline in over 20 years, with a decline of over 20% seen back in 2002. This has led to a total equipment revenue decrease of 14% over the past two years.

    The decline was widespread across telecom segments and was influenced by factors such as excess inventory, a challenging macro environment, and tough 5G comparisons. In the fourth quarter of 2024, growth in North America and Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) helped stabilize the market, offsetting weak demand in the Asia Pacific, including China.

    The decline in 2024 varied across the six telecom segments. Optical transport, SP routers, and RAN experienced double-digit contractions, shrinking by 14% collectively. Microwave transport and MCN experienced a more moderate decline in the low single digits, while broadband access revenues remained relatively stable.

    Regional trends in 2024 were mixed. While all five regions—North America, EMEA, Asia Pacific, China, and the Caribbean and Latin America (CALA)—experienced slow growth, the decline was most significant in the broader Asia Pacific region due to challenging conditions in China and other parts of the Asia Pacific.

    Globally, supplier rankings remained mostly unchanged; however, revenue shares shifted slightly. For example, Huawei’s revenue share outside of China increased by 2-to-3 percentage points (PP) in 2024 compared to 2021.

    Market concentration remained stable, with the top eight suppliers making up around 80% of the global market in 2024. Market conditions are expected to stabilize in 2025, although it will still be a challenging year. Analysts predict that global telecom equipment revenues across the six sectors will remain flat.

  • Scaling Infrastructure to Support AI Growth in Japan, Indonesia, and Singapore

    Scaling Infrastructure to Support AI Growth in Japan, Indonesia, and Singapore

    Nationally, projections indicate that AI investments in APAC are expected to reach USD 110 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.0% from 2023 to 2028.

    As AI technologies become integral to various sectors, the demand for scalable infrastructure has intensified. Organizations are increasingly investing in compute and storage hardware to facilitate AI deployments, with spending reaching USD 31.8 billion in the first half of 2024—a 37% year-over-year (YoY) increase. This trend highlights the necessity for robust infrastructure capable of supporting complex AI workloads.

    Developing AI-ready infrastructure in APAC presents unique challenges. Macroeconomic factors such as rising interest rates, supply chain constraints, and escalating construction material costs have made it increasingly difficult to bridge the funding gap necessary for building new data center capacity. Securing essential resources like land, power, and water supplies further complicates these efforts.

    As AI adoption accelerates worldwide, the need for powerful infrastructure to support AI-driven applications is becoming more pressing. Recognizing this demand, SoftBank has announced plans to repurpose a former Sharp LCD panel plant in Osaka, Japan, into a large-scale data center dedicated to AI operations. Developed in collaboration with OpenAI, the facility is expected to begin operations in 2026, with a robust power capacity of 150 megawatts, making it one of the largest AI-focused data centers in Japan.

    SoftBank’s decision to convert the defunct LCD panel plant into a data center aligns with its broader vision of positioning Japan as a hub for AI innovation. With an estimated initial investment of JPY 100 billion (USD 677.05 million) and a potential total investment nearing JPY 1 trillion yen (USD 6.77 billion), the project highlights the telecom giant’s commitment to scaling AI infrastructure.

    AI development requires immense computational power, with models like OpenAI’s GPT series relying on extensive data processing, high-performance graphics processing units (GPUs), and robust networking infrastructure. The Osaka data center is designed to meet these demands by offering a 150-megawatt power capacity to support high-density computing environments optimized for AI model training and inference. It will also enable businesses to leverage AI models tailored to their industry-specific needs, fostering AI adoption in Japan’s corporate sector. Additionally, given the growing concerns about AI’s energy consumption, the facility may incorporate advanced cooling and power efficiency solutions to ensure sustainable operations.

    Furthermore, Elon Musk’s xAI and Nvidia have joined the AI Infrastructure Partnership (AIP), a multibillion-dollar investment fund backed by BlackRock, Microsoft, and Abu Dhabi’s MGX, with an initial fundraising target of USD 30 billion and plans to secure up to USD 100 billion, including debt financing. This collaboration is driven by the growing need to scale AI infrastructure, as the development and deployment of generative AI (GenAI) models requires immense computational power and energy resources.

    According to Nvidia CEO, Jensen Huang, the demand for AI infrastructure is surging, with data centers and energy projects struggling to keep pace.

    “The global buildout of AI infrastructure will benefit every company and country that wants to achieve economic growth and unlock solutions to the world’s greatest challenges.”

    AI models consume far more power than previous technological innovations, prompting concerns over energy sustainability. According to the International Energy Agency, data centers’ global electricity consumption could surpass 1,000 terawatt-hours by 2026 (more than twice the amount used in 2022).

    The race to scale AI infrastructure has intensified, with Microsoft alone pledging USD 80 billion in capital expenditures (CapEx) this fiscal year to expand its data center footprint. This move follows the launch of SoftBank and OpenAI’s Stargate Project, which aims to spend up to USD 500 billion on AI infrastructure development over the next four years.

    Indonesia’s commitment to AI development took a significant step forward with the launch of its National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence (Strategi Nasional Kecerdasan Artifisial) in 2020. This long-term initiative, spanning 2020 to 2045, is designed to position Indonesia as a regional leader in AI innovation and application. President Joko Widodo’s strong stance on AI’s transformative potential—emphasizing that whichever country “controls AI can potentially control the world”—has driven the government’s proactive approach to fostering AI growth.

    A core element of Indonesia’s AI strategy is its emphasis on infrastructure development to support AI innovation and adoption across multiple sectors. Recognizing that AI thrives on robust digital infrastructure, the government has accelerated efforts to expand high-speed internet access, cloud computing capabilities, and data center availability. The Making Indonesia 4.0 initiative, which serves as a broader framework for the country’s digital transformation, integrates AI infrastructure expansion with industrial automation, biotechnology, and smart manufacturing. Furthermore, Indonesia’s push to roll out 5G networks, particularly in major urban centers, is playing a crucial role in facilitating AI-driven solutions such as smart cities, autonomous systems, and advanced analytics in governance and business.

    The Bukit Algoritma (Algorithm Hill) project in Sukabumi, West Java, further exemplifies Indonesia’s commitment to AI-driven infrastructure. This 888-hectare technology hub, inspired by Silicon Valley, aims to be a center for research and innovation in AI, quantum computing, neuroscience, and digital technology.

    Indonesia’s AI strategy has also facilitated partnerships between the public and private sectors, accelerating the integration of AI into real-world applications. The Jakarta Smart City initiative, which deploys AI-powered solutions for urban governance, mobility, and security, showcases Indonesia’s ability to leverage AI for improved public services.

    Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0 (NAIS 2.0), launched on December 4, 2023, has placed infrastructure development at the heart of its vision for AI-driven growth. Recognizing the critical role of high-performance computing (HPC), data centers, and cloud ecosystems, NAIS 2.0 lays the foundation for a sustainable and scalable AI infrastructure. A prime example of this initiative is the Singapore Cloud Region, which features cutting-edge, liquid-cooled, high-density data centers equipped with NVIDIA HGX H100 and L40S clusters.

    This advanced setup ensures that businesses and researchers have access to powerful, energy-efficient AI computing resources. Additionally, NAIS 2.0 aligns with Singapore’s goal of becoming a regional AI hub, emphasizing cross-border connectivity and AI-driven collaboration across Southeast Asia. With ST Telemedia Global Data Centres and Sustainable Metal Cloud (SMC) at the forefront of this infrastructure push, Singapore is not only expanding AI accessibility but also ensuring its AI ecosystem is cost-effective, energy-efficient, and globally competitive.

    Beyond Japanese, Indonesian, and Singaporean initiatives, the ASEAN Guideline on AI Governance and Ethics and the establishment of the ASEAN Working Group on AI (WG-AI), mark a significant step toward fostering cross-border collaboration and infrastructure development to support AI growth.

    The ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, launched during the fourth ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting on February 2, 2024, offers a structured framework to help organizations navigate AI integration while balancing innovation and regulation. The guide emphasizes the necessity of financial and capacity support for businesses, reinforcing ASEAN’s commitment to establishing a robust AI ecosystem.

    Complementing this initiative, the newly formed WG-AI aims to facilitate regional cooperation, ensuring interoperability among national AI frameworks and enabling a unified approach to AI governance.

    As AI adoption accelerates in Japan, Indonesia, and Singapore, scaling infrastructure is essential to sustain this momentum. Nations that foster collaboration between governments, tech firms, and research institutions will be well-equipped to build resilient, future-ready ecosystems that drive innovation and economic growth in the AI era.

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  • China’s Strategic 5G Pricing Stimulates Economic Expansion

    China’s Strategic 5G Pricing Stimulates Economic Expansion

    China’s rapid deployment and adoption of 5G technology have positioned it as a global leader in the telecommunications sector. Central to this success is the country’s strategic approach to 5G pricing, which has facilitated widespread consumer uptake and stimulated economic growth.

    In 2019, China’s major telecommunications operators—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—officially launched 5G services to the public. These operators introduced competitively priced data packages to encourage early adoption.

    At launch, China Mobile had already attracted 3.8 million 5G users, accounting for 69% of China’s 5G market. The company set an ambitious target of reaching 100 million 5G users by the end of 2020, a bold move considering that it had only recorded 21.5 million net additions in the first 11 months of 2019 and 37.9 million for the whole of 2018.

    To achieve this goal, China Mobile introduced a nationwide strategy focused on affordability, rapid network expansion, and device availability. It also planned to transition to 5G Standalone (5G SA) by the fourth quarter of 2020, ensuring a fully optimized and independent 5G network.

    China Mobile’s initial 5G plans ranged from RMB 128 (USD 18) to RMB 598 (USD 86) per month, offering a tiered structure based on data and voice usage. These prices were designed to make 5G accessible to both casual and heavy users. By maintaining relatively low entry-level pricing compared to Western markets, China Mobile accelerated 5G adoption among consumers.

    The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s (MIIT) research arm, the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology (CAICT), reported that 13.77 million 5G phones were sold in the last two months of 2019, with 35 different models available. While the majority of China’s mobile shipments in 2019 were 4G devices (389 million units), the rapid price decline and increased availability of 5G phones helped accelerate consumer adoption.

    At the end of the year, the company had deployed 50,000 base stations across 50 cities, laying the foundation for nationwide 5G coverage.

    While China Mobile pursued aggressive pricing to attract mass adoption, China Telecom strategically positioned itself with a pricing model that balanced affordability with premium offerings tailored to high-speed connectivity applications, such as its groundbreaking 5G-powered Shanghai Maglev train network.

    China Telecom introduced its 5G plans with a tiered pricing strategy, ensuring a variety of options for consumers. The operator’s base plan started at an affordable rate, making it accessible to a wide range of users, while premium packages offered higher data limits and additional features. This approach was designed to cater to both budget-conscious customers and high-data users who required uninterrupted connectivity, such as business professionals and gamers.

    In comparison to China Mobile, which offered 5G plans starting at RMB 128 (USD 18) for 30 GB, China Telecom’s pricing focused on flexible packages and bundled services. While China Mobile aimed to rapidly increase its subscriber base through low-cost plans, China Telecom leveraged its 5G infrastructure investments, such as its high-speed rail network coverage, to justify competitive yet value-driven pricing.

    In partnership with ZTE, China Telecom successfully deployed the world’s first commercial 5G maglev train network in Shanghai, enabling seamless connectivity at speeds of up to 500 km/h. This innovation highlighted the carrier’s ability to offer premium 5G services beyond conventional mobile plans, targeting industries and high-end users willing to pay for cutting-edge connectivity solutions; thus, contributing to China’s broader gross domestic product (GDP).

    China Unicom officially introduced its 5G services in 2019, setting a minimum price of RMB 190 (USD 26) per month for its 5G data packages. As one of China’s three major telecom operators, China Unicom came up with a strategic pricing model that balanced affordability with profitability, ensuring a smooth transition from 4G to 5G.

    Unlike China Mobile, which was expected to introduce lower-cost 5G plans, China Unicom initially set higher price points for its 5G services. This pricing strategy aimed to offset the high costs of early 5G infrastructure deployment, encourage gradual adoption rather than overwhelming the network with an immediate surge of users, and maintain quality service for early adopters by preventing excessive congestion.

    The company justified its pricing by highlighting that its 5G plans were still the cheapest in the world. Compared to South Korea’s minimum 5G package of RMB 325 (USD 44) per month and AT&T’s USD 70 per month for 15 GB of data in the US, China Unicom’s offering was over 40% cheaper than South Korea’s and 60% lower than the US’s lowest 5G plan.

    Despite China Unicom’s competitive global pricing, the RMB 190 (USD 26) starting price sparked controversy online, as many consumers found the cost too high. However, telecom industry analysts pointed out that premium pricing during the early phase of 5G adoption was a standard strategy. To address affordability concerns, China Unicom announced plans to introduce lower-cost 5G packages over time, adjusting its pricing based on user demand and network expansion. The company emphasized its long-term goal of making 5G accessible to a wider audience while maintaining service quality.

    While its initial pricing catered to high-end users and businesses, the company made it clear that more flexible and affordable packages would be introduced as 5G adoption increased.

    This strategy allowed China Unicom to remain financially sustainable while gradually transitioning users from 4G to 5G, ensuring a stable and high-quality network experience for China’s first wave of 5G subscribers, while simultaneously supporting the enterprises contributing to China’s GDP.

    According to data released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), by the end of November 2024, China’s 5G mobile phone subscriptions surpassed 1 billion, marking a significant milestone in the country’s rapid adoption of next-generation connectivity. This figure represents 56% of all mobile lines in China, reflecting a 9.4 percentage point (PP) increase compared to the previous year.

    According to the GSMA’s Mobile Economy China 2024 report, China is expected to reach a 5G adoption rate of 90% by 2030, positioning it as a global leader in mobile connectivity. The report projects that 5G connections will rise to 1.6 billion by 2030, contributing USD 260 billion to the country’s GDP.

    Within three years of 5G development, the average monthly data usage per mobile user in China nearly doubled from 7.8 GB to 14.9 GB. This surge has supported applications such as remote work, online education, digital life, scientific research, and epidemic prevention and control, highlighting 5G’s role in enhancing digital services.

    Beyond this, the widespread adoption of 5G has revolutionized consumer services, particularly in e-commerce and mobile internet usage. With over 1.1 billion internet users as of 2024, accounting for approximately 78.6% of the population, China leads the global e-commerce market. The rapid growth of 5G networks has further accelerated online retail and digital services, contributing to economic growth.

    Since the issuance of 5G commercial licenses, China’s 5G commercialization has directly generated approximately CNY 5.6 trillion (around USD 787.53 billion) in economic output over the past five years. Additionally, it has indirectly contributed to CNY 14 trillion in economic output, underscoring 5G’s substantial role in the country’s development.

    According to Zhang Yunming, Vice-Minister of Industry and Information Technology, China has entered a crucial period of 5G commercialization, with wireless technology being applied to 40 of the 97 major economic categories. He emphasized that large-scale applications have already expanded into mines and ports.

    A Framework for the Future

    An extensive infrastructure network has supported China’s progress in 5G deployment. As of November 2024, the country had installed approximately 4.2 million 5G base stations, which account for over 60% of the global total, according to industry estimates. Yunming highlighted that China has already met the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) target for 5G deployment ahead of schedule, with 29 5G base stations per 10,000 residents. These networks provide extensive coverage across government service hubs, cultural landmarks, tourist destinations, and key transportation corridors.

    The Chinese government is continuing its push for broader 5G accessibility, particularly in rural and remote regions, as part of a national strategy to bridge the digital divide. In collaboration with 11 other government bodies, the MIIT recently launched an updated plan known as the second “Set Sail” action plan, which aims to further enhance 5G applications by 2027. The initiative sets ambitious goals, including increasing 5G base stations to 38 per 10,000 people, achieving a personal 5G user penetration rate exceeding 85%, and ensuring that over 75% of network traffic runs on 5G networks.

    Shanghai, one of China’s key economic centers, has also taken an aggressive stance in advancing 5G. The city unveiled a three-year strategy to expand 5G applications by 2026, focusing on developing 5G-Advanced technology and integrating it with artificial intelligence. The plan aims to achieve a 5G personal user penetration rate of over 90% while ensuring continuous 5G and 5G-A coverage for low-altitude aviation routes. Additionally, Shanghai is fostering the development of high-standard, 5G-enabled manufacturing facilities and exploring applications in humanoid robotics and innovative energy systems.

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  • Jio Partners with SpaceX to Bring Starlink Internet to India

    Jio Partners with SpaceX to Bring Starlink Internet to India

    Jio’s commitment to providing affordable, high-speed internet across the country is at the heart of this collaboration.

    “Ensuring that every Indian, regardless of location, has access to seamless broadband remains Jio’s top priority. Our collaboration with SpaceX to bring Starlink to India is a significant step in our journey toward comprehensive digital inclusion. By incorporating Starlink into Jio’s broadband infrastructure, we aim to enhance accessibility, reliability, and connectivity in an increasingly AI-driven world, empowering communities and businesses alike,” said Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Jio Platforms.

    “We appreciate Jio’s dedication to enhancing connectivity across India. We look forward to collaborating and securing the necessary approvals from the Government of India to extend Starlink’s high-speed internet services to a broader audience,” said SpaceX’s President and COO, Gwynne Shotwell.

    In addition to broadband services, Jio and SpaceX are exploring other possible collaborations to further enhance India’s digital ecosystem. This includes expanding connectivity solutions in sectors such as education, healthcare, and business.

    Apart from Jio, India’s Airtel has also teamed up with Starlink to bring satellite broadband to local users. This partnership allows Airtel to distribute Starlink equipment and offer tailored solutions to businesses, schools, healthcare providers, and remote communities. Both companies are also looking at ways to combine their infrastructures to optimize connectivity and improve service delivery.

    With both Jio and Airtel partnering with SpaceX, India is on the brink of a major upgrade to its broadband network, bringing faster, more reliable internet to both urban and rural areas.

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  • Telcovas Expands into LATAM and Southeast Asia, Betting Big on AI and 5G

    Telcovas Expands into LATAM and Southeast Asia, Betting Big on AI and 5G

    When asked about Telcovas’s focus for the year, Singh emphasized their dedication to addressing critical pain points for mobile network operators (MNOs).

    He highlighted their innovative approach to integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their solutions to enhance MNO operations. “One of our solutions is Automated Roaming Assist, which is an AI-enabled troubleshooting application that can be embedded in the selfcare app for any MNO and integrated into the chatbot to solve roaming solutions for subscribers.” Singh elaborated. “This enables troubleshooting, reporting, and analysis of the problems from subscribers’ handsets and destination MNO’s, in addition to the whole roaming journey.”

    Mehaidly also introduced their AI Spam Call Controller, designed to pre-emptively identify and manage spam calls. “This solution uses AI to analyze calls before setup, alerting customers and allowing MNOs to blacklist or whitelist calls as per their preference,” he added.

    Reflecting on their achievements in 2024, Singh expressed satisfaction with Telcovas’s growth trajectory. “We have been able to grow our business over the past year, enjoying great growth in revenue, profit, people, footprint, and customer reference.”

    Singh emphasized the key products driving this growth, including private 5G networks tailored for industries like mining, manufacturing, and defense, along with robust roaming VAS (value added services) and cybersecurity solutions. “We’ve also made significant strides in mobility solutions and regulatory compliance across Africa and the Middle East,” Singh noted.

    Looking ahead, Mehaidly revealed Telcovas’s strategic expansion into Latin America and Southeast Asia in early 2025. Singh concluded:

    Overall, the company’s success is a testimony to Telcovas’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric growth.

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  • ZTE to Highlight “Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation” at MWC Barcelona 2025

    ZTE to Highlight “Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation” at MWC Barcelona 2025

    In collaboration with industry partners, ZTE will promote the deep integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and connectivity, accelerating intelligent innovation and jointly shaping a future that is highly efficient, intelligent, and green.

    ZTE’s booth, located at 3F30, hall 3, Fira Gran Via, will be the venue where the company showcases its innovative solutions, integrating connectivity and AI across six key thematic areas: Ultra-Efficient Mobile Network, All-Optical World, AI-Inspired Value, Engines of Intelligence, Infinite Future, and Smart Life.

    Addressing the fundamental network needs of operators, ZTE will demonstrate how to leverage next-generation, ultra-efficient mobile networks and all-optical networks to build a modern, future-proof foundational network with efficiency and low carbon emissions.

    In the field of mobile networks, ZTE continues to lead UBR innovation, launching the industry’s first TDD+FDD dual-mode Massive MIMO AAU and 400M OBW ultra-wideband AAU, creating ultra-simplified, highly efficient, and green sites. Targeting indoor and agricultural network scenarios, ZTE unveiled several new solutions to enable comprehensive traffic coverage. Focused on pioneering new momentum in 5G-A development, ZTE is driving innovation in air to ground (ATG) and non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite communication, to build the Space-Air-Ground Integrated Network (SAGIN) to achieve ubiquitous connectivity.

    By integrating sensing and communication, ZTE empowers the low-altitude economy and water management. Additionally, with the introduction of the 5G-A new media solution, ZTE enhances brand-new augmented reality (AR) live broadcast experiences.

    In the field of all-optical networks, ZTE is committed to advancing the high-quality development of optical networks. For all-optical homes, ZTE is driving revenue growth through Wi-Fi 7, FTTR, and other solutions; reducing operational costs through digital tools; and enhancing scene development with AI-driven smart terminals. For all-optical cities, ZTE is expanding into office, hotel, and campus scenarios through all-optical ToB, boosting customer ARPU. For all-optical infrastructure, ZTE has launched intelligent ODN, Full-Band OTN, and AI-Enhanced IP solutions to build an ultra-simplified, ultra-fast, and highly efficient foundational network.

    Looking towards future evolution, ZTE is dedicated to the integrated development of 5G-A and 6G, creating a distributed intelligent network that combines connectivity, sensing, and intelligence to support the ubiquitous, AI-driven world of the Internet of Everything (IoE). Through key technological innovations and business ecosystem development, ZTE aims to collaboratively build a new high ground for value-driven services.

    ZTE positions intelligent computing as the company’s long-term core focus, actively promoting the integration of connectivity and AI innovation. It has launched an all-in-one, end-to-end AI solution to support customers in their digital transformation and seize future market opportunities.

    During MWC Barcelona 2025, ZTE will showcase its full-stack intelligent computing infrastructure, including liquid-cooled data centers, intelligent computing servers, general-purpose computing servers, storage, high-speed switches, and the AiCube integrated training and inference unit supporting DeepSeek full-version deployment. This solution is designed to flexibly meet the computing network needs of large data centers, edge data centers, and integrated enterprise deployments across various scenarios. Additionally, ZTE will unveil the industry’s first integrated energy storage solution, combining multi-scenario new energy integration with intelligent energy scheduling to enhance energy efficiency.

    In addition, ZTE leverages technologies such as heterogeneous convergence and computing-network integration to launch a series of solutions, including AIR RAN and AIR Core, to build end-to-end, AI-native networks that help operators reshape their business models.

    Focused on industry innovation, ZTE offers a full-stack, AI-integrated application solution, covering chips, hardware, software, and integration services. Focusing on achieving optimal application outcomes, ZTE integrates its own capabilities with industry-leading resources to help customers build the most cost-effective AI applications. The Digital Nebula 3.0, featuring the Nebula large model, integrates a complete suite of tools for model training, inference, and application development. This enables industry customers to leverage AI efficiently, quickly, and cost-effectively. At the Nanjing Binjiang Factory, the Nebula industrial large model has accelerated process document generation by 10 times and reduced quality inspection labor costs by 70%. Additionally, ZTE empowers external innovation applications in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and energy, driving the monetization of AI’s value.

    Adhering to its “AI for All” product strategy, ZTE continues to expand its complete portfolio of AI-powered devices in various forms. By positioning AI smartphones as the primary gateway, ZTE is building a new multi-modal interaction experience centered on AI voice.

    Within its AI OS framework, ZTE achieves system-level integration of top-tier global AI capabilities. Its multi-modal architecture seamlessly incorporates advanced LLMs such as Google Gemini, ByteDance Doubao, DeepSeek, China Mobile Jiutian, and China Telecom Xingchen. ZTE is not only pioneering the integration of the full-scale DeepSeek-R1(featuring 671B parameters) in the flagship smartphone, nubia Z70 Ultra, but will also progressively integrate DeepSeek-R1 and other top-tier LLMs across its entire product lineup, making the multiple values of AI accessible to a broader range of consumers.

    nubia will unveil the world’s first next-generation true full-screen flagship smartphone featuring industry-leading photography capabilities—the nubia Z70 Ultra—alongside the stylish, compact, foldable smartphone—the nubia Flip 2. Embracing the “Born to Win” concept, nubia continues to drive the development of its gaming smartphone for everyone through the nubia Neo 3 series. nubia will also introduce its first AI earphones—nubia LiveFlip—which interact seamlessly with nubia AI smartphones via its AI OS, further enhancing the AI-powered, full-scenario interaction experience.

    REDMAGIC, a globally recognized professional gear brand, will launch the world’s first 1.5K Wukong true full-screen gaming flagship as part of the REDMAGIC 10 Pro series. The company will debut its first 4K eyewear-free 3D gaming laptop and tablet, as well as a variety of esports accessories, further refining its esports ecosystem and offering comprehensively professional support for gamers.

    Moreover, ZTE will showcase the world’s first two-in-one 5G+AI Cloud Pad along with a range of multi-form AI devices tailored for home users at the event.

    Pioneering the Future of Digital Intelligence

    During MWC Barcelona 2025, ZTE will also host several key activities at its exhibition booth, including the “AI for All” ZTE Devices New Products Launch Event, the AIR DNA for Future Network Launch Event, and multiple joint customer release events, presenting a series of innovative products to the industry. Additionally, ZTE will participate in the major thematic forums organized by the GSMA, where it will share the latest insights and case studies on key topics such as the evolution of future networks, AI’s role in reshaping networks, and how private networks empower various industries. ZTE will collaborate with global operators, industry partners, and thought leaders to accelerate intelligent innovation across industries.

    The convergence of AI and ICT technologies is dissolving the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds, ushering in a new era driven by intelligent innovation and seamless connectivity. From March 3rd to 6th, join ZTE to witness the acceleration of progress and step into the new future of digital intelligence.

  • Maxis Partners with Nokia to Modernize Data Center Infrastructure

    Maxis Partners with Nokia to Modernize Data Center Infrastructure

    The deployment will support Maxis’s business growth by providing a scalable, secure, and efficient data center architecture.

    The modernization of Maxis’s data center connectivity technology will help the company simplify its network operations, solve issues faster, and automate workloads, all on a robust and secure infrastructure.

    Nokia will deploy its cutting-edge 7220 Interconnect Router (IXR) data center switches and EDA technology across Maxis’s multiple data centers. This upgrade will enable Maxis to provision infrastructure resources without delay, will reduce complexity, and will ensure that Maxis’s current applications running on the network can scale gracefully.

    “This expansion of our longstanding collaboration with Nokia will drive next-generation connectivity in anticipation of customers’ growing needs. It reflects Malaysia’s emergence as a hub for data centers and hyperscalers in line with greater adoption of AI-enabled cloud infrastructure. This initiative will enhance our network capabilities, ensuring we are able to continue providing best-in-class, connectivity-adjacent solutions powered by fast, secure, and reliable connectivity,” said Goh Seow Eng, Chief Executive Officer at Maxis.

    “Data center networks are critical infrastructure and need to be extremely reliable while also being simple to deploy and operate. We are pleased to work with Maxis to modernize their data center infrastructure with our advanced data center switches and EDA technology to provide Maxis with a future-proof architecture that is scalable, resilient, and easy to deploy. This collaboration is a testament to the strength of our technology and our commitment to supporting our customer’s growth in the booming data center market in Southeast Asia,” added Ming Kin Ngiam, Head of Southeast Asia South for Network Infrastructure at Nokia.

    Nokia is helping cloud builders worldwide to construct modern data center networks that are highly reliable, secure, and easy to operate, which is essential to meet the growing demands of artificial intelligence (AI) workloads globally. Nokia’s EDA ensures faster response times, reduces manual effort, minimizes errors, consumes less compute resources, and handles network-wide operations at-scale with consistent performance. By proactively resolving issues, it boosts reliability and reduces operational costs.

    The Nokia 7220 IXR, a key component of Nokia’s Data Center Fabric solution, provides fixed-configuration, high-capacity platforms that offers unmatched scale, flexibility, and operational simplicity within data center and cloud environments. These scalable, next-generation platforms are designed to meet the high connectivity and density demands of webscale companies, service providers, and enterprises.

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  • China Telecom Launches Asia Direct Cable Capacity Ahead of Schedule

    China Telecom Launches Asia Direct Cable Capacity Ahead of Schedule

    This milestone was achieved two months earlier than planned, following the completion of the ADC wet segment last November. In the past eight years, no new submarine cables have been operationalized in the Asia Pacific. This has led to a shortage of resources and created challenges in the market.

    The launch of the ADC’s capacity has been eagerly anticipated by the industry. China Telecom Global Limited, acting as the Co-chair of the ADC consortium, has worked closely with all consortium members and suppliers to overcome unexpected challenges and bring the ADC’s capacity into service ahead of schedule. This has helped to ease the strain on submarine cable resources.

    The availability of capacity will support the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and big data, as well as facilitate digital transformation across various industries. Looking forward, China Telecom plans to expand its presence into international markets and enhance its global network resources to further contribute to the advancement of the global digital economy.

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  • Meta to Bring World’s Longest Undersea Cable to India

    Meta to Bring World’s Longest Undersea Cable to India

    The announcement, made in accordance with the recent U.S.-India joint leaders’ statement, highlights Meta’s focus on India’s expanding digital ecosystem. The undersea network will play a crucial role in global internet connectivity, linking countries and supporting local telecom operators in delivering services.

    “Meta is investing in India—one of its largest markets—bringing the world’s longest, highest capacity, and most technologically advanced subsea cable project to connect India, the U.S., and other locations,” a Meta spokesperson said.

    This investment comes amid growing calls from telecom operators for major tech firms, including Meta, to contribute to network infrastructure development and alleviate data traffic congestion.

    According to Meta, Project Waterworth will utilize advanced routing techniques and innovative cable burial strategies to safeguard the cable system against damage, particularly in high-risk coastal regions. The cable will reach depths of up to 7,000 meters in deep-sea areas.

    A Meta spokesperson said the investment reflects the company’s commitment to economic growth, resilient infrastructure, and digital inclusion, driven by India’s increasing demand for digital services.

    The U.S.-India joint statement, released following Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S., also emphasized India’s plans to invest in undersea cable maintenance and financing in the Indian Ocean using trusted vendors.

    “This project will enable greater economic cooperation, facilitate digital inclusion, and open opportunities for technological development in these regions,” Meta noted. “In India, where we’ve already seen significant growth and investment, Waterworth will help accelerate progress and support the country’s digital economy ambitions.”

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  • Alibaba Cloud Expands Thai Presence with New Data Center

    Alibaba Cloud Expands Thai Presence with New Data Center

    Sean Yuan, Vice President of International Business and General Manager of Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, and the South Pacific Region at Alibaba Cloud Intelligence, stated, “Our latest data center strengthens our commitment to providing reliable, secure, and high-performance cloud services tailored to the needs of local businesses. With enhanced local infrastructure, we aim to empower enterprises to leverage the full potential of cloud technology, especially in generative AI applications.”

    With the addition of this new data center, Alibaba Cloud now operates 86 availability zones across 28 regions globally, solidifying its position as a leading cloud service provider in Southeast Asia. The first data center in Thailand was launched in 2022. Alibaba Cloud has over 140 security and compliance accreditations worldwide, ensuring top-tier protection and resilience for its cloud services. With two data centers in Thailand, Alibaba Cloud can provide scalable, elastic, and highly available cloud computing products with enhanced disaster recovery capabilities, all while adhering to strict security and regulatory standards.

    Alibaba Cloud is expanding its range of services to support businesses in Thailand, including elastic computing, storage, database, security, network products, data analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) services. These services are designed to address specific challenges faced by different industries. By leveraging AnalyticDB’s cloud-native vector engine, businesses in Thailand, especially in the fintech and retail sectors, can create solutions that enhance customer interactions through customized large language model (LLM) applications. This allows companies to efficiently manage structured and unstructured data, develop chatbots, and provide personalized product recommendations, ultimately improving the customer experience.

    Alibaba Cloud’s Container Compute Service (ACS) simplifies workload deployment using Kubernetes, offering a serverless container environment that helps businesses scale their operations efficiently and focus on innovation while managing costs effectively. Alibaba Cloud offers industry-specific solutions tailored to digital-native clients in sectors such as fintech, retail, and public services. These solutions include the Elastic Desktop Service (EDS), eKYC solutions, a SuperApp equipped with development capabilities, and AI-driven sustainability solutions.

    Through partnerships with local companies like True Digital Group, Yell Group, and Codium, Alibaba Cloud has helped enhance operations and services using cloud computing products. These collaborations aim to improve efficiency, scalability, and innovation in various industries. Alibaba Cloud is actively working with local partners and universities in Thailand to support the digital transformation of businesses and foster digital talent. Initiatives include workshops, certified courses, and collaborations with universities to provide training in cloud computing and generative AI, as well as the launch of a global skills center at Chulalongkorn University to offer free training courses, boot camps, AI competitions, and leadership development programs. These efforts aim to enhance educational resources and promote a thriving digital landscape in Thailand.

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  • Chunghwa Telecom Expands Submarine Cable Investments

    Chunghwa Telecom Expands Submarine Cable Investments

    The company is increasing its investment in undersea cable infrastructure, allocating up to TWD 2 billion (USD 60.9 million) in 2025. The SJC2 system, spanning 10,500 kilometers, links 11 cable landing stations across Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Taiwan, China, South Korea, and Japan.

    Meanwhile, the Apricot system, stretching 12,000 kilometers, will connect Taiwan to Japan, Guam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Singapore. Chunghwa Telecom is part of the consortium overseeing the development of both cable projects.

    In addition to these deployments, the company is in discussing the possibility of other submarine cable projects with potential partners. Chunghwa Telecom Chairman, Alex Chien, indicated that the company is inclined to invest in undersea cables that connect Taiwan to Southeast Asia or Pacific nations. He also revealed that the company is considering launching more medium Earth orbit (MEO) and high Earth orbit (HEO) satellite internet services this year to bolster data security for the government and enterprises in case of undersea cable disruptions.

    Chunghwa Telecom is also addressing local connectivity issues. It has allocated funds to repair two damaged domestic submarine cables linking Taiwan and Lienchiang County (Matsu). These cables failed in late January due to natural wear and tear.

    Chunghwa Telecom’s increased investment in submarine cable systems comes amid heightened concerns over Taiwan’s digital infrastructure security due to ongoing geopolitical tensions with China.

    A quarter (25.2%) of the company’s 2025 capital expenditures (CapEx) will be directed toward non-mobile sectors, including submarine cable expansion,

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  • Indosat Reports Strong Growth in 2024

    Indosat Reports Strong Growth in 2024

    Total revenue increased by 9.1% to IDR 55.9 trillion, driven by improvements in customer quality and contributions from all business lines. Cellular revenue grew by 7.5% due to increased revenue in the data and interconnection sector, while multimedia, data communication, and internet (MIDI) revenue rose by 23.4%, supported by increased revenue from IT services.

    EBITDA also grew by 10.2%, totaling IDR 26.4 trillion, demonstrating an EBITDA margin of 47.2% and Indosat’s efficiency in converting revenue into earnings. Profit for the period attributable to owners of the parent increased by 38.1%, totaling IDR 4.916 trillion, reinforcing the company’s financial health and ability to deliver returns to stakeholders.

    Vikram Sinha, President Director and CEO of Indosat, mentioned, “2024 was a challenging year. Despite this, we managed to secure a strong performance as a commitment to continue delivering value to our stakeholders. This strong financial and operational performance also underscores Indosat’s commitment to continuously drive the advancement in the telecommunications industry ecosystem in Indonesia.”

    Throughout 2024, data traffic increased by 12.2% year-over-year (YoY), reflecting the growing demand for Indosat’s services. The company expanded its network infrastructure by increasing the number of 4G BTS to 196,000 to enhance service quality for customers. This led to a 6.6% rise in mobile average revenue per user (ARPU), totaling nearly IDR 40,000 and showcasing the success of Indosat’s go-to-market strategy.

    In the final quarter of 2024, Indosat relaunched its postpaid service under the IM3 Platinum brand, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver a premium customer experience. The company is also embedding AI into its network operations through a partnership with Nokia, which aims to expand its 4G and 5G networks and provide smarter and more efficient connectivity.

    Indosat is also collaborating with UiPath to empower 100,000 Indonesians with enterprise automation skills by 2027, aligning with its mission to drive digital transformation and foster an AI-ready workforce in Indonesia.

    The company’s capital expenditure (CapEx) in 2024 totaled IDR 9.937 trillion. Indosat will focus on enhancing cellular networks to support the growing demand for AI-powered digital services.

    “By embedding AI across our operations and fostering collaborations rooted in the spirit of mutual cooperation, we are accelerating towards Indosat’s larger purpose of empowering Indonesia,” concluded Sinha.

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  • Globe, GoTyme Bank Partner to Strengthen Anti-Scam Measures

    Globe, GoTyme Bank Partner to Strengthen Anti-Scam Measures

    This collaboration will comply with the Data Privacy Act and streamline the process of investigating suspected scammers by eliminating the need for warrants or subpoenas to access their information.

    Globe’s Chief Privacy Officer, Irish Salandanan-Almeida, emphasized, “This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to championing cybersecurity and protecting our customers from the growing threats in the digital world. Through collaborations, we can combine our expertise and resources to better safeguard the financial sector and our customers from cybercrime.”

    In the first half of last year, Globe blocked 2.7 million bank-related spam and scam messages, investing around USD 20 million in scam detection and prevention systems to protect consumers from deceptive messages. A study by Kaspersky revealed that Filipinos encountered 14.1 million web threats last year, a decrease from 26.6 million in 2023.

    Yeo Siang Tiong, Kaspersky’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, suggested that this decline in cyber threats could be due to improved detection and prevention methods. However, Tiong cautioned that hackers might be targeting specific high-value individuals rather than launching widespread cyberattacks.

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  • Singtel Launches 5G+ Using 700 MHz for Wider Coverage

    Singtel Launches 5G+ Using 700 MHz for Wider Coverage

    This upgraded 5G service, now called Singtel 5G+, will provide stronger signals (up to 40%) in indoor high-rise buildings, underground spaces, and remote areas in Singapore.

    The use of this low-frequency spectrum allows for wider coverage with fewer towers, ensuring a more reliable network for businesses needing constant connectivity and consumers wanting to make video calls or stream content in these locations. This development comes after the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) granted Singtel the rights to use the 700 MHz spectrum. Approximately 1.5 million subscribers, including Singtel’s mobile enterprise, postpaid, prepaid, and GOMO 5G customers, are expected to benefit from this expanded coverage at no extra cost.

    Mr. Ng Tian Chong, Chief Executive Officer of Singtel Singapore, stated that with the increasing digital lifestyles of consumers and the demand for innovative solutions by businesses, Singtel invested early in achieving 5G coverage to support Singapore’s Smart Nation goals. Singtel aims to set a new standard in 5G connectivity with 5G+, providing enhanced digital experiences for customers and enabling more opportunities for advancement.

    The use of the 700 MHz band allows signals to travel longer distances, extending coverage to areas like Tuas, Kranji, Sungei Kadut, Changi East, and Jurong Island, including locations with spatial constraints like military camps, factories, and warehouses. This wider coverage will provide consumers in these areas with seamless mobile experiences, while also boosting enterprise productivity in sectors like healthcare, public safety, and port operations. The 700 MHz band also improves signal transfer in dense urban environments like Singapore, ensuring uninterrupted calls and data services in places like basement carparks, HDB estates, and high-rise commercial developments.

    This enhancement will benefit sectors like security and manufacturing, which rely on smooth transmission of high-definition (HD) video footage for real-time threat detection and operational efficiency. Singtel’s early investments in 5G technology have allowed them to unlock new features and capabilities, positioning Singapore as a global testbed for innovation.

    Since achieving nationwide 5G coverage in 2022, Singtel has deployed 5G capabilities like network slicing for enterprise applications and at high-traffic events such as concerts and parades. The deployment of the 700 MHz spectrum is part of Singtel’s ongoing efforts to support individuals and future-proof businesses.

  • NEC Reveals Solution to Modernize Telco Infrastructure

    NEC Reveals Solution to Modernize Telco Infrastructure

    By leveraging cloud-native technology and virtualization, the new solution promises to reduce the time required to build mobile infrastructure—from Radio Access Network (RAN) to core—by approximately 60%, compared to traditional methods.

    As the need for faster, more reliable networks grows, telecom companies are adopting 5G virtualization technologies like v-RAN, O-RAN, and NFV. To keep up, network infrastructure construction must be modernized to improve efficiency and productivity.

    NEC’s new solution is designed to address these challenges, driving greater automation, efficiency, and quality in the construction of virtualized mobile infrastructures.

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    Key Features

    • Network Infrastructure Modernization: NEC’s solution provides expert services to help telecom companies analyze their network building processes, from design to operation. NEC’s experience with virtualization platforms helps identify issues, create modernization strategies, and develop implementation plans. The service also offers guidance on improving processes, measuring performance, and boosting efficiency and quality.
    • Automation Technologies: The solution includes a suite of technologies designed to automate each stage of network construction. Fully compatible with cloud-native technologies, it is built on a microservice architecture that enables the integration of applications as small, independent services. This architecture supports open, multi-vendor environments, allowing telecom operators to modernize their networks while ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment.
    • Real-Time Data and Feedback Cycles: One of the standout features of NEC’s solution is the ability for network operations staff to access real-time data from all base stations. This feature accelerates feedback loops, improving base station performance and ensuring superior communication quality. The result is increased operational efficiency and a faster response to infrastructure needs.

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    NEC’s solution forms part of its goal to drive digital transformation in network operations. The ‘Network and Cloud-Native Orchestrator’ helps telecom companies modernize and automate their networks, improving the entire lifecycle from construction to operation. It supports virtualization, containerization, and cloud design, enabling carriers to expand quickly and cost-effectively.

    The solution also supports NEC’s new approach, NEC BluStellar, which focuses on being a “value driver” rather than just a systems integrator. NEC aims to transform business models, address social issues, and solve management challenges using advanced technologies and industry expertise.

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