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  • ZTE COO Xie Junshi: Digitalization is the key to greater societal resilience

    ZTE COO Xie Junshi: Digitalization is the key to greater societal resilience

    At the post MWC22 sharing session recently organized by the GSMA, Xie Junshi, EVP and COO of ZTE, explored several exciting new trends in scenario-based 5G applications, mobile technologies, and industry development in an increasingly digitalized world.

    Xie noted that digitalization in the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) era is continuously strengthening the “immune system” of our society, playing an irreplaceable role in tackling not only the current pandemic but also long-term public health issues such as ageing populations while promoting sustainable development. With digitalizationaccelerating around the world, both the technology and market are changing disruptively, creating more innovations and greater potential. To maintain a competitive edge, CSPs are pursuing the transformation to DSPs. Focusing on scenarios and value creation, ZTE aims to work jointly with all partners to build a digital and intelligent ecosystem.

    Below are the highlights of Xie’s sharing:

    Accelerating global digitalization is boosting the society’s immune system

    Digitalization is the key to greater societal resilience in the post-pandemic era. Whether in telecommuting, online collaboration, or digital factories, digitalization provides support for our lives and helps guarantee the health of the entire economy. Digitalization is also playing a pivotal role in tackling VUCA and population aging while promoting green, low-carbon, and sustainable development.

    Driven by scenario and value, both the market and technology are changing disruptively. The diverse range of exhibitors and fascinating content at MWC 2022 highlight the evolution from mobile Internet to IoE and AIoE, marked by ubiquitous 5G connectivity, AI advancement, cloud-network convergence, and new technologies. Today, without a doubt, global digitalization is accelerating, creating more technological innovations and greater market potential. To maintain a competitive edge, CSPs are pursuing the transformation to DSPs.

    In every industrial revolution, higher efficiency has always been the most critical factor. This current revolution of digitalization is no exception. At MWC 2022, most of the digital innovations presented by exhibitors, including ZTE, focus on higher efficiency. For instance, ZTE shared innovations for simplified infrastructure, efficient and intelligent operations, as well as agile innovations for achieving growth in the second curve of digital services. ZTE has also adopted scenario-based approaches to realize the ultimate experience and efficiency, promoting sustainable development and future technological advancements.

    Sustainable development is the key goal of enterprises, while the key to promoting 5G application in the to-B field lies in three aspects

    For 5G networks, consumers look forward to a better experience, while enterprises look for lower costs, higher efficiency, and business growth. So far, in the to-B field, 5G technology has been widely applied to verticals. For example, to assist or replace manpower, 5G-powered automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used in flexible production lines, 8K machine vision for more efficient quality inspection, and unmanned or remotely controlled machines to assist in operations.

    To facilitate greater breakthroughs in the to-B field, however, it is important to achieve collaboration with operators and enterprises where every party stands to benefit. Together, there are three aspects to work on: creating and sustaining competitive differentiation, developing effective business models to speed up value creation, and exploring the path to mass customization.

    Competitive differentiation means that ZTE can provide unique and optimal solutions, and hence stand out from the competition. When delivering 5G solutions for verticals, it is important to determine whether 5G technology is indispensable, or whether the 5G-powered solutions have unparalleled advantages over others. This is how competitive differentiation can be sustained.

    As for speeding up value creation in the early stage of 5G application, it is important to focus on customers’ pain points and distinctive needs in fragmented scenarios. On this basis, ZTE can explore more scenarios in different fields, so as to accelerate the development of 5G application in the to-B field.

    To achieve higher profitability, mass customization is the optimal choice. This is why ZTE aims to build underlying capabilities of digital infrastructure and component-based cloud capabilities. Through flexible orchestration of such capabilities, agile innovation can be implemented, meeting the requirements of different applications in various scenarios. In addition, this allows ZTE to continue to build successful experience across different scenarios and consolidate a strong digital foundation, to enable rapid iteration and continuous evolution.

    Evolving consumer expectations drive 5G application in the to-C field, and joint efforts are required for building the infrastructure and ecosystem

    The rapid development of the mobile Internet is driven by evolving consumer expectations and improving human capabilities. The same will be true for the application of 5G in the to-C field. For example, consumer demands boost the development of applications that can provide real-time, immersive, and interactive audio-visual experience, such as UHD videos, AR and VR applications, and cloud gaming. This has been a trend in countries with wide 5G network coverage, including China and South Korea. With 5G technology, we can now watch live sport events with a panoramic view, freely zoom in or out, and switch between different camera positions. In this way, consumers can stay at home and enjoy personalized and immersive experiences in real time. In order to make the much talked-about metaverse a reality, we need to enhance network capabilities, computing power, and storage capabilities, for which 5G technology plays a vital role.

    To promote 5G applications in the to-C field, wide and deep network coverage is of great importance. More specifically, we need optimal, cost-effective 5G solutions that can guarantee continuous and intensive network coverage both outdoors and indoors, even on high-speed trains, airplanes, and ships. ZTE has already made many innovations in the to-C fields. In addition, easy-to-use and cost-effective terminals, together with different kinds of content services, will help give rise to improved applications in a stronger and healthier ecosystem.

    ZTE is committed to building a “1+2+3” digital ecosystem.

    The next major chapter of 5G development will start with the arrival of 5G-Advanced. While 3GPP Releases 15, 16, and 17 represent the first phase of 5G standards, 5G-Advanced marks the start of the second. Following up on 5G commercial deployment and empowerment of verticals worldwide, 5G-Advanced focuses on better user experience and more industry applications.

    In December 2021, together with its industry partners, 3GPP approved a work package for its Release 18, marking the start of 5G-Advanced evolution. The work package includes 28 study or work items in a variety of scenarios, including eMBB, real-time interactive new media, network intelligence, IoT featuring high-precision positioning and low power consumption, IIoT, integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), fused location, and satellite-cellular network integration. These efforts will bring us brand new capabilities, applications, and experiences. Toward 5G-Advanced, ZTE will continuously work with industry partners to promote technological innovation and industrial transformation.

    To gain a firm foothold in this process of network evolution, ZTE is always committed to building a “1+2+3″ digital ecosystem, looking to address key pain points and create greater value for customers.

    So what exactly is ”1+2+3”?

    “1” refers to a solid foundation consisting of chipsets, algorithms, and architectures. ZTE continuously strengthens its foundation to gain momentum for growth.

    “2” refers to intelligence and security, which are crucial to 5G networks and business.

    “3” refers to capability, performance, and efficiency, which should be continuously improved through innovations and are key to the prosperity of 5G.

    With the evolution to 5G-Advanced, ZTE will work with industry partners and advance technological innovations to reinvent a digital world.

    China’s 5G development will make greater contributions to global industries and markets.

    As of January 2022, a total of 1.425 million 5G base stations have been built in China, making 5G networks available in over 98% of counties and 80% of towns. Mobile 5G connections now exceed 518 million. More crucially, over 10,000 innovative 5G use cases have been created, which span the fields of manufacturing, health care, education and transportation.

    In the 5G era, China has been an active contributor in many aspects:

    • The moderately advanced pace of network construction in China has boosted the growth of the 5G industry.
    • China has continued exploring and promoting large-scale 5G application, consolidating the foundation of the entire industry.
    • China actively pushes forward the co-building and sharing of networks for higher resource efficiency.

    China has a wide range of wireless scenarios and a sound foundation provided by its digital economy, and is witnessing the growth of huge potential in consumer markets and various industries. With the moderately advanced pace of 5G network construction, excellent network coverage and guaranteed performance, China’s unique environment is set to produce a range of more applications and continuous innovation, and contribute to global industries and markets.

    Video link to Xie’s sharing at MWC22 :

    https://res-www.zte.com.cn/MediaFiles/4/F/4/%7B4F48E19C-7979-4844-861C-99C0759DA7F4%7D202204151635.mp4

     

  • Singtel and Telkom forge deeper ties in regional data centres and fixed broadband

    Singtel and Telkom forge deeper ties in regional data centres and fixed broadband

    Singtel and its Indonesian partner Telkom, the parent company of Singtel’s regional associate Telkomsel, have signed two memoranda of understanding (MOU) which was witnessed by Indonesia’s minister of state-owned enterprises Erick Thohir and vice minister of state-owned enterprises Kartika Wirjoatmodjo. The first of the two MOUs covers collaboration in the area of data centres, which marks a significant step in advancing Singtel’s regional data centre strategy. The second MOU involves a collaboration to support Telkomsel’s transformation into Indonesia’s leading consumer fixed broadband and mobile operator through a fixed mobile convergence strategy with Telkom.

    Expansion of regional data centre footprint to Indonesia

    To capture growth opportunities arising from the unprecedented digitalisation and cloud adoption in ASEAN, Singtel has focused on establishing a data centre platform that will work with partners to build and acquire data centres in the region. ASEAN has been experiencing robust data centre growth and the Singapore and Indonesia markets are projected to more than double in size, accounting for over 60% of regional growth by 2025.

    As strategic partners for over two decades, this move into data centres expands on the close collaboration between Singtel and Telkom to build out Indonesia’s mobile communications and digital infrastructure.

    Singtel Group CEO Yuen Kuan Moon said, “As businesses rapidly digitalise, and with the growing adoption of IoT, artificial intelligence and 5G across the region, demand for high-quality data centres is on the rise. This partnership with Telkom is an important step for our data centre strategy, bringing together the prime assets, expertise and networks of two market leaders in data centre operations in Indonesia and Singapore. As the largest digital economy in ASEAN, Indonesia is a strategic data centre market which expands our platform’s footprint to cover the three fastest-growing locations in the region – Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. The platform will support the digital transformation needs of customers wanting to deploy into Indonesia, and Indonesian businesses looking to grow beyond the country. We look forward to deepening our longstanding collaboration with Telkom to capitalise on the favourable trends and tremendous market opportunity.”

    Telkom CEO Ririek Adriansyah said, “Telkom Group is currently consolidating our data centre business to answer the challenges of digital transformation. The regional data centre platform is a continuation of this data centre consolidation strategy and demonstrates our commitment to respond to customer needs and capture opportunities that will pave the way for our company to become a data centre player on a global level. These efforts require strategic partnerships with operators who have proven capabilities and track records. With its strengths and experience, Singtel is one of the strategic partners for Telkom in developing this regional data centre business.”

    Singtel is a leading operator of data centres in Singapore and has carved out its top-tier data centres, DC West and Kim Chuan 2, into a separate Singtel-owned entity with approximately 60 MW of capacity. In addition to securing a site in Tuas for a new integrated cable landing and data centre facility which will be ready in three to four years and add 30-40 MW in capacity, Singtel will continue to explore adding further capacity.

    An experienced data centre operator, Telkom has an existing data centre portfolio of 27 data centres in Indonesia and the region. It is also building a hyperscale data centre with 75 MW capacity to serve local and foreign companies and hyperscalers. Selected data centre assets from Telkom will be placed in the data centre platform. The companies will also collaborate on development opportunities and explore bringing third-party investors or partners into the platform.

    Besides Indonesia, Singtel has set its sights on the Thai data centre market. In February, Singtel signed a joint development agreement with Gulf Energy and Singtel’s regional associate AIS to start developing data centres in Thailand, and the new joint venture will be launched soon.

    Fixed mobile convergence strategy

    Singtel and Telkom will also jointly explore a fixed mobile convergence strategy for Telkomsel which will see an integration of its mobile business with Telkom’s consumer fixed broadband business. By combining the strengths of the two companies, Telkomsel will be able to enjoy significant synergies and enhance its leading position in the market with converged solutions that will give customers the best digital experience. This strategy will strengthen customer value proposition, in turn increasing customer lifetime value and household penetration.

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  • Singtel-owned ATN and AustralianSuper acquire Axicom

    Singtel-owned ATN and AustralianSuper acquire Axicom

    Singtel-owned Australia Tower Network (ATN) and AustralianSuper have announced the acquisition of Axicom, one of Australia’s leading providers of telecommunications tower infrastructure, for A$3.58 billion.

    Axicom owns and operates approximately 2,000 telecommunication sites located in metro and outer-metro locations across all eight states and territories and major cities in Australia.As ATN’s shareholders, AustralianSuper and Singtel said the strong synergies between Axicom and ATN would provide exceptional growth opportunities which will benefit customers, employees, and the community in the long term.

    AustralianSuper head of infrastructure, Nik Kemp, said Axicom is a high-quality asset that will deliver long-term value to AustralianSuper members.

    “Axicom is complementary to our existing digital infrastructure portfolio and this acquisition will result in the creation of a provider with a truly national footprint that will connect the vast majority of Australian families and businesses,” Kemp said.

    “Axicom has all of the characteristics we are looking for in an infrastructure asset and there are strong synergies between the two organisations. We look forward to working with the great teams of both ATN and Axicom to bring these two strong businesses together and leverage the great opportunity we have to continue to deliver for customers and AustralianSuper members.”

    Singtel Group chief corporate officer, Lim Cheng Cheng said, “This acquisition is a unique opportunity to scale up ATN’s operations and expand its customer base. It also reinforces Singtel’s commitment as a long-term investor in the Australian telecoms space where our goal has always been to provide more options and build better communications for Australian consumers and businesses. In combining ATN and Axicom, AustralianSuper and Singtel will be working closely to realise the significant operational synergies created.”

    AustralianSuper acquired a 70% stake in ATN from Singtel in November last year. Following the Axicom acquisition, Singtel’s shareholding in the combined ATN/Axicom business will be 18%, with AustralianSuper at 82%.

    Kemp said AustralianSuper will continue to seek further opportunities in this sector both domestically and globally.

    “AustralianSuper is looking to double its infrastructure portfolio over the next five years from its current A$31 billion. We believe that there will be significant growth in demand for digital infrastructure and will actively consider future opportunities in this space.”

    ATN chief executive officer, Cameron Evans, said ATN was looking forward to broadening the relationship with Axicom’s customers and providing them with access to the over 2000 current ATN sites and more than 565 new sites under construction.

    “Bringing together Australia’s two largest independent wireless telecommunications infrastructure operators provides real strategic advantages and strong value creation opportunities. It will also provide greater support for our customers as they continue to deliver essential services to the community such as mobile coverage, internet services, broadcast and emergency services,” Evans said.

    “We look forward to working with the team at Axicom to bring our two businesses together and leverage the opportunities we have with our top-quality digital infrastructure to connect Australians for generations to come.”

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  • MVNO Google Fi cuts its pricing for unlimited data

    MVNO Google Fi cuts its pricing for unlimited data

    Originally known as Project Fi, Google Fi debuted in April 2015 and was offered by invitation to owners of the Nexus 6. A year later, the Pixel and Pixel XL were added and in February 2018, the service was rebranded as Google Fi.
    Google Fi is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) which means that while it does offer you wireless service, Google Fi itself does not own any cell towers and pays for the right to use network capacity from T-Mobile and U.S. Cellular. The carrier you will be using on Google Fi at any given time is the one offering a stronger signal at your current location.
    Pricing changes are being made to Fi’s service tiers except for the Flexible plan. With that plan, you pay $10 for each GB of data used and $16-$20 for unlimited calls/text (depending on the number of people on the plan).
    While pricing hasn’t changed for this plan, you can now get “unlimited calling within Canada and Mexico at no extra cost.” Previously, calls from the U.S. to Mexico and Canada were free but by replacing the word “from” to “within,” Google has expanded coverage for Fi users. Allowing subscribers to make unlimited calls within Canada and Mexico is now offered on all three plans (Flexible, Simply Unlimited, and Unlimited Plus) although you’ll pay $10 for each GB of data used on the Flexible plan.
    The Simply Unlimited plan (which is such a Googley name for this tier of service) is celebrating its first birthday with a nice price cut. It is designed to be an affordable unlimited plan for those who like to use plenty of data but don’t like the idea of paying for it. It also doesn’t include a lot of the extras that Google Fi offers to entice you to join its premium service.
    For four or more lines of Simply Unlimited, you now will pay $20 per subscriber each month, down from $30. For three lines, you’ll now pay $25 per subscriber each month, also down from $30. Two lines are now $40 per subscriber each month (down from $45) and the monthly price for a single line has been sliced to $50 from $60.
    Simply Unlimited includes unlimited data in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico with data speeds throttled to 2G (256 kbps) after consumption of 35GB of data, up from 22GB. The plan includes 5GB a month of hotspot tethering.
    Google Fi has also lowered the pricing on its most premium plan which it calls Unlimited Plus. For four or more lines, the price of this plan has been reduced to $40 per subscriber each month from $45. Three lines are now priced at $45 per subscriber per month, down from $50. Two lines are priced at $55 per month for each subscriber (down from $60), and a single line will cost $65 monthly, down from $70.
    With the Unlimited Plus plan, subscribers now receive 50GB of high-speed data which can be employed for hotspot tethering and used internationally. Data can be used on tablets and other devices besides a phone, and there is 100GB of Cloud Storage using Google One. Calls from the U.S. are free to over 50 destinations, and data while traveling outside of the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is free in over 200 destinations.
    Regardless of which plan you choose, Google Fi delivers:
    • Unlimited calls & texts.
    • No contracts or activation fees.
    • Built-in VPN and spam blocking.
    • Contact controls & data budgets.
    • 24/7 customer support.
    And to celebrate the updated pricing, you can save up to $500 on the purchase of certain handsets. If you bring your own phone, you will get a Fi bill credit of $100 if you subscribe or add a line.
    While Google Fi does support the majority of Android handsets, iPhone users will only see 4G data speeds if they subscribe to the MVNO.

     

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  • SES expands multi-cloud offerings with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure FastConnect

    SES expands multi-cloud offerings with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure FastConnect

    SES will be offering private, dedicated connectivity to Oracle Cloud through Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) FastConnect. Customers can harness the power of Oracle Cloud locally, including Oracle Autonomous Database, to unlock innovation and drive business growth.

    The direct access to Oracle Cloud as a FastConnect partner is part of SES’s strategy of offering customers high-performance, low-latency and secure connections to the leading public cloud providers.

    SES will be using its Cloud Direct service to connect customers to Oracle Cloud applications and services over its network of medium earth orbit (MEO) and geostationary (GEO) satellites – a key advantage for enterprises, the government and other customers who require low-latency and secure connections in remote, rural or other locations with limited network options. The Cloud Direct service will also be available on SES’s next-generation MEO constellation, O3b mPOWER, launching this year. O3b mPOWER will provide SES customers with satellite-enabled cloud connection, supporting multi-gigabit services that adapt dynamically to network demand.

    With OCI, customers benefit from best-in-class security, consistent high performance, simple predictable pricing, and the tools and expertise needed to bring enterprise workloads to the cloud quickly and efficiently.

    “As the only multi-orbit satellite provider with direct cloud connections to four of the top five public cloud providers, SES empowers our customers with the flexibility and options to optimize their cloud services for reach, latency, performance or other business requirements,” said Sergy Mummert, senior vice president, sales global cloud & strategic partnerships at SES. “The launch of O3b mPOWER this year will massively scale the intelligent service automation and flexibility of our Cloud Direct service and help with new cloud capabilities for customers around the world.”

    OCI’s extensive network of more than 70 FastConnect global and regional partners offer customers dedicated connectivity to Oracle Cloud regions and OCI services – providing customers with the best options anywhere in the world.

    Specifically architected to meet the needs of the enterprise, Oracle Cloud is a next-generation cloud that delivers powerful compute and networking performance and a comprehensive portfolio of infrastructure and platform cloud services from application development and business analytics to data management, integration, security, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain. With unique architecture and capabilities, Oracle Cloud delivers unmatched security, performance, and cost savings. Oracle Cloud is the only cloud built to run Oracle Autonomous Database, the industry’s first and only self-driving database.

  • Singtel-owned ATN and AustralianSuper acquire Axicom

    Singtel-owned ATN and AustralianSuper acquire Axicom

    Singtel-owned Australia Tower Network (ATN) and AustralianSuper have announced the acquisition of Axicom, one of Australia’s leading providers of telecommunications tower infrastructure, for A$3.58 billion.

    Axicom owns and operates approximately 2,000 telecommunication sites located in metro and outer-metro locations across all eight states and territories and major cities in Australia.

    As ATN’s shareholders, AustralianSuper and Singtel said the strong synergies between Axicom and ATN would provide exceptional growth opportunities which will benefit customers, employees, and the community in the long term.

    AustralianSuper head of infrastructure, Nik Kemp, said Axicom is a high-quality asset that will deliver long-term value to AustralianSuper members.

    “Axicom is complementary to our existing digital infrastructure portfolio and this acquisition will result in the creation of a provider with a truly national footprint that will connect the vast majority of Australian families and businesses,” Kemp said.

    “Axicom has all of the characteristics we are looking for in an infrastructure asset and there are strong synergies between the two organisations. We look forward to working with the great teams of both ATN and Axicom to bring these two strong businesses together and leverage the great opportunity we have to continue to deliver for customers and AustralianSuper members.”

    Singtel Group chief corporate officer, Lim Cheng Cheng said, “This acquisition is a unique opportunity to scale up ATN’s operations and expand its customer base. It also reinforces Singtel’s commitment as a long-term investor in the Australian telecoms space where our goal has always been to provide more options and build better communications for Australian consumers and businesses. In combining ATN and Axicom, AustralianSuper and Singtel will be working closely to realise the significant operational synergies created.”

    AustralianSuper acquired a 70% stake in ATN from Singtel in November last year. Following the Axicom acquisition, Singtel’s shareholding in the combined ATN/Axicom business will be 18%, with AustralianSuper at 82%.

    Kemp said AustralianSuper will continue to seek further opportunities in this sector both domestically and globally.

    “AustralianSuper is looking to double its infrastructure portfolio over the next five years from its current A$31 billion. We believe that there will be significant growth in demand for digital infrastructure and will actively consider future opportunities in this space.”

    ATN chief executive officer, Cameron Evans, said ATN was looking forward to broadening the relationship with Axicom’s customers and providing them with access to the over 2000 current ATN sites and more than 565 new sites under construction.

    “Bringing together Australia’s two largest independent wireless telecommunications infrastructure operators provides real strategic advantages and strong value creation opportunities. It will also provide greater support for our customers as they continue to deliver essential services to the community such as mobile coverage, internet services, broadcast and emergency services,” Evans said.

    “We look forward to working with the team at Axicom to bring our two businesses together and leverage the opportunities we have with our top-quality digital infrastructure to connect Australians for generations to come.”

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  • AIS, Qualcomm and ZTE debut world’s first 5G NR-DC showcase with 2.6GHz and 26GHZ in Thailand

    AIS, Qualcomm and ZTE debut world’s first 5G NR-DC showcase with 2.6GHz and 26GHZ in Thailand

    AIS, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and ZTE have jointly announced the world’s first 5G NR-DC (new radio dual connectivity) showcase in the field with 2.6GHz and 26GHz, achieving 8.5Gbps peak downlink speed and 2.17Gbps peak uplink speed with a single mobile device. As part of the joint effort, this collaboration combines two major 5G frequency bands, sub-6 and 5G mmWave, to enhance the capabilities of Thailand’s 5G network and extend the 5G application landscape.

    The test was conducted at the AIS commercial 5G site in Korat, Thailand, using a smartphone form-factor test device powered by Snapdragon® X65 5G Modem-RF System, and ZTE’s latest mmWave AAU network infrastructure equipment.

    The NR-DC was implemented with one 100MHz carrier in 2.6GHz, and four 200MHz carriers in 26GHz. The test achieved 8.5Gbps peak downlink speed and 2.17Gbps peak uplink speed demonstrating the extraordinary capability and flexibility of NR-DC for diversified requirements from individual consumers and industry leaders.

    This NR-DC showcase drives the commercial progress of 5G mmWave into the fast lane in Thailand. AIS, Qualcomm Technologies and ZTE are together committed to accelerating and growing 5G for capability enhancement, efficiency improvement and application boundary extension.

    “AIS’s key goal is to develop the smart 5G network as a national infrastructure with investments of 30,000-35,000 MB,” Wasit Wattanasap, head of nationwide operation and support business unit at Advanced Info Service Pcl. (AIS), commented, “We are the licensee holding the most spectrum in low band, mid band and high band or mmWave, which has the outstanding feature of rapid data transmission with low latency. We have never stopped deploying innovations to level up the network, including 5G Non NSA/SA Voice over new radio (VoNR) and 5G carrier aggregation (CA), to provide increasingly improved experiences to Thai customers, which was our intention when we joined the auction for spectrum.”

    “Most recently, we have continued our collaboration with ZTE and Qualcomm Technologies, to jointly trial 5G NR-DC technology. It is a crucial step to combine different 5G spectrum, 2600 MHz (mid Band) and 26GHz (high Band) in a world-first. This enables downloads of up to 8.5 Gbps, and uplinks of up to 2.17 Gbps. This trial gave us a wider channel for the signal and extremely low latency. For instance, there could be streaming games online (cloud game), controlling driverless vehicles and commanding robots remotely in real-time. Moreover, the trial supports the development of new models of chipsets in the future, to speed up data transfer even more.”

    “This cooperation highlights how AIS is the only provider using its licensed spectrum of every waveband for development to support business growth in various dimensions. It is also continuous transformation and updates for Thai consumers. Taking this joint-trial as a good start, we are confident that AIS 5G network is ready to expand the use of mmWave technology and support growth of the business sector in various aspects,” concluded Wasit.

    “Our collaboration with AIS and ZTE proves the feasibility of deploying 5G mmWave in Thailand,” said ST Liew, vice president, Qualcomm CDMA Technologies Asia-Pacific Pte. Ltd. and president, Qualcomm South East Asia. “Qualcomm Technologies believes that 5G mmWave will be the key to unlocking the full potential of 5G. The possibility is endless and we are proud to take the first step in bringing the full benefits of 5G mmWave to the country.”

    “We’re pleased to work with AIS and Qualcomm Technologies to achieve this milestone, which lays a technology validation foundation for 5G mmWave commercialization,” said Mei Zhong Hua, senior vice president, ZTE Corporation. “With broader 5G opportunities enabled by mmWave, we will join hands with partners to continuously drive mmWave development, create ultimate experiences and usher in a wonderful 5G era.”

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  • Huawei reports record-high net profit, solid growth in digital power, cloud and carrier businesses

    Huawei reports record-high net profit, solid growth in digital power, cloud and carrier businesses

    Huawei’s net profit recorded an all-time high in 2021, increasing 75.9% year-on-year to reach 113.7 billion yuan. However, revenue declined by 28.6% from the preceding year, totaling 636.8 billion yuan. The company’s R&D expenditure reached 142.7 billion yuan, accounting for 22.4% of total revenue, and the highest R&D amount the tech giant recorded in the past decade.

    Despite a decline in revenue, Huawei reported an increased cash flow totaling 59.7 billion yuan, while the liability ratio dropped to 57.8%.

    Speaking at Huawei’s 2021 annual report press conference, Meng Wanzhou, Huawei’s chief financial officer noted that Huawei has a sound financial standing, where higher profitability and operating cash flow can be attributed to improved management and product portfolios.

    “The value of a company is not reflected in its financial performance, especially for a high-tech company like Huawei. Future-oriented, long-term investments can better reflect the real value of a company,” said Meng. “The real value of Huawei lies in the capabilities of the teams and platforms built with our long-term R&D investments. They are key to Huawei’s long-term sustainability and competitiveness.”

    In 2021, Huawei’s carrier business generated 281.5 billion yuan in revenue, accounting for 44.2% of total revenue. Of which, more than half of its carrier business took place outside of China. Notable growth in Huawei’s carrier business can be attributed to 5G networks deployed for carriers in 13 countries, including Switzerland, Germany, Finland, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

    In terms of industrial 5G applications, Huawei has signed more than 3,000 commercial contracts, with many large-scale commercial deployments across industries including manufacturing, mining, steel, port, chemical, cement, power grid, and healthcare. Leveraging its simplified site solution, renewable energy, and intelligent technologies, Huawei has helped carriers in more than 100 countries, including the Netherlands, Indonesia, Poland, and the UAE, deploy green sites.

    “Major trends such as digitalization, intelligence and carbon neutrality are the directions that will define our ongoing development,” said Guo Ping, Huawei’s rotating chairman. Citing Huawei’s recent wins for its innovative products and solutions at the MWC Barcelona, Guo added that Huawei’s digital innovations are recognized by carriers and industry peers.

    Owing to accelerated digital and intelligent transformation across industries, Huawei’s enterprise business also witnessed rapid growth. Revenue for enterprise business reached 102.4 billion yuan, accounting for 16.1% of total revenue. Specifically, new businesses including cloud services, digital power, and intelligent automotive components experienced robust growth of more than 30% in 2021.

    According to Gartner’s report on the global IaaS public cloud services market in 2020, Huawei ascended to the second spot in China, and successfully ranked 5 among the top global IaaS vendors ­– therein becoming the fastest-growing of all major vendors in Asia Pacifc and globally.

    At present, Huawei cloud spans 61 availability zones within 27 geographical regions, covering more than 170 countries. A platform used widely by both the public and private sectors, Huawei cloud reaches more than 2.3 million developers, 14,000 consulting partners, and 6,000  technological partners, serving over 4,500 cloud products in the market.

    As one of the most populous and diverse regions in the world, Asia Pacific presents huge prospects for digital transformation and digital economy growth. With more countries embracing digitalization as a national agenda, Jun Zhang, director of Huawei Asia Pacific public relations reiterated Huawei’s ambition to ramp up on delivering connectivity and intelligence, and advancing low carbon and digital inclusion initiatives.

    Addressing Huawei’s commitments to the region, Jun noted that a key priority is expanding network coverage to bridge the region’s digital divide. For instance, Huawei has deployed a new system in the Philippines, leveraging mobile devices and AI to protect rainforests from illegal logging and animal poaching. In the high-altitude and isolated Papua region, Huawei has also successfully delivered 4G connectivity to a million residents.

    In terms of providing low carbon solutions, Huawei Digital Power has helped customers in the region reduce up to 17 million tons of carbon emissions. In Singapore, for instance, Huawei supported Sunseap Group with industry-leading solar inverters to build one of the world’s largest offshore floating farms.

    To address an ICT talent shortage, Huawei will invest $50 million over the next five years to train 500,000 ICT talent in the region. In Malaysia, Huawei will establish the Women’s Leadership Foundation (WLF) to impart skills in business analytics, AI, big data and blockchain to 2,500 women. In the next three years, Huawei will also commit about $100 million to its Spark program to grow the region’s start-up ecosystem.

    Recognizing that innovation is key to maintaining Huawei’s competitiveness, about 10% to 20% of total revenue goes into R&D each year. In the past decade, Huawei has since amassed over 845 billion yuan in R&D investments. To date, Huawei has built three research centers and five labs and innovation centers in the region.

    “We will keep investing heavily in R&D to stimulate innovation and cultivate Asia Pacific talents to continuously provide the most advanced and high-quality products and services for our clients,” Jun said. “We will continue to deliver industry-leading 5G solutions and work with our customers to build high-quality 5G networks.”

    Especially in Southeast Asia, where digital economies have been forecasted in the e-Conomy SDEA 2021 report to reach $1 trillion by 2030, Guo expressed that Huawei will invest heavily in technologies including 5G, AI, cloud, deepening cooperation with more governments and stakeholders to accelerate countries’ digital transformation journeys.

    Elaborating on Huawei’s partnership with Indonesia, the largest economy in ASEAN, Guo said, “In spite of the ongoing pandemic, Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan took the time to visit Huawei in person at the end of last year. During our meeting, we discussed areas in which Huawei can work with Indonesia, like ICT infrastructure and digital transformation, particularly 5G, cloud infrastructure, and the construction of its new capital city.”

    Elsewhere, Huawei has invested approximately $15 million to develop a 5G ecosystem innovation center in Thailand. More notably, Huawei jointly launched Thailand’s Siriraj World Class 5G Smart Hospital, ASEAN’s first 5G smart hospital. This year, Huawei and Siriraj Hospital will establish a joint innovation lab to incubate over 30 innovative 5G applications.

    Huawei will channel investments in three key areas, namely system architecture, architecture optimization and software performance improvement, and theoretical exploration. Establishing a highly trustworthy and reliable supply chain is also important in today’s challenging climate.

    For its global carriers and enterprise customers, Huawei will work toward building green, simplified, and intelligent ICT infrastructure and facilitate digital transformation in all industries. ICT technologies will be integrated across industry scenarios to meet differentiated customer requirements.

    Moving forward, Guo stressed that “Huawei will advance its journey of digitalization, intelligent transformation, and low carbon.

  • ZTE partners with Converge ICT to deliver XGS-PON services in the Philippines

    ZTE partners with Converge ICT to deliver XGS-PON services in the Philippines

    ZTE, together with Converge ICT, is about to launch commercial 10-Gigabit-capable symmetric passive optical network (XGS-PON) infrastructure in South Luzon and the Visayas in the Philippines by May 2022.

    Converge is the first operator to provide residential XGS-PON services in the Philippines. ZTE will cooperate with Converge to expand the commercial range of XGS-PON in the coming years, effectively boosting the evolution of the local network. Currently, ZTE ranks first globally in terms of market share in the customer premises equipment (CPE) segment, according to IHS.

    In this XGS-PON project, Converge selected ZTE to further strengthen their cooperation. ZTE employs multiple XGS-PON devices with ultra-high bandwidth, such as F8648P and Flex PON technologies, for a smooth evolution from GPON to XGS-PON.

    In addition, ZTE has begun its tests on its WiFi 6 ONT and Mesh WiFi products and will provide high-quality and comprehensive XGS PON solutions and products. ZTE’s ONT has a 10 GE downlink port to satisfy users’ high-speed access requirements.

    “In the future, we will continue to work with ZTE to build a stable and efficient network in the Philippines,” said Ronald G. Brusola, chief technology officer at Converge. “The next few years will be a window period for 10GPON development. We hope to work with ZTE to build a fixed broadband network that everyone can afford.”

    “With our 10GPON connectivity up and running, we expect faster and greater things for businesses that utilize this technology,” Jesus Romero, chief operations officer at Converge said. “With our continued partnership with ZTE, we are confident in providing our clients that competitive advantage.”

    “Converge and ZTE have maintained a good long-term partnership. ZTE has been providing Converge with stable and high-speed broadband access products and services. With 20 years of experience in the multimedia field, ZTE has built a professional R&D team of nearly 1,000 engineers,” said Wan Min, managing director of the ZTE Philippines. “With engineering delivery experts across the globe and rich experience in industrial cooperation, ZTE will continue to focus on technological evolution and service innovation in the big video sector, helping Converge develop ultra-high definition video services and set an excellent example for operators in Southeast Asia.”

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  • Telenor Myanmar subsidiary sold to Lebanese M1

    Telenor Myanmar subsidiary sold to Lebanese M1

    Myanmar’s junta has approved the sale of Norwegian telecoms giant Telenor’s Myanmar subsidiary to Lebanese conglomerate M1 Group, in a move activist groups warn could put sensitive customer data in the hands of the military.

    The Southeast Asian nation has been in chaos since a coup last year sparked huge protests and a bloody military crackdown on dissent, sending its economy into freefall.

    In July, Telenor announced that it planned to sell its subsidiary Telenor Myanmar and later cited junta demands that it installs monitoring equipment on the network as a reason for leaving the country.

    After months of stalled negotiations, Telenor and M1 – which is helmed by current Lebanese prime minister Najib Mikati – both said the sale had been approved by junta authorities.

    “M1 Group has been informed that the Myanmar Investment Commission has approved Telenor Group’s application for the sale of Telenor Myanmar to Investcom PTE Ltd, an M1 Group affiliate,” M1 said in a statement.

    A separate statement from Telenor said the sale had been given “final regulatory approval”.

    M1 will partner with local consortium Shwe Byain Phyu to take ownership of the new entity, according to the group’s statement.

    Founded in 1996, Shwe Byain Phyu started out distributing petroleum products for the then-military government, and employs more than 2,000 people in Myanmar.

    It has interests in petroleum trading, manufacturing, commodities trading and marine products, according to its website, which lists no previous telecoms experience.

    “Sanctions screening from external consultants has assured Telenor that Shwe Byain Phyu and its owners are not subject to any current international sanctions,” the Norwegian firm said in a statement.

    Last year, 474 civil society groups in Myanmar called Telenor’s decision to pull out irresponsible, saying it had not sufficiently considered the impact on human rights.

    Activist groups say any new owner could comply with future requests from the junta to provide cellphone data of dissidents protesting against the putsch that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s government last year.

    “There are still many things Telenor can do to mitigate harm,” said Joseph Wilde-Ramsing, senior researcher at SOMO, a Netherlands-based non-profit that conducts research and advocacy on corporations.

    “If they won’t take any steps to minimise the data transfer, they can still do things like set up a fund to help victims, remediate some of the harms they are going to be contributing to with the sale.”

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  • China Telecom reports record double-digit growth in 2021

    China Telecom reports record double-digit growth in 2021

    China Telecom’s “Cloudification and digital transformation” strategy has paid off. In 2021, China Telecom’s net profit reached RMB25,948 million, representing an increase of 24.5% year-on-year. Operating revenues amounted to RMB439.6 billion, growing by 11.7% over the preceding year.

    In 2021, the company implemented its “Cloudification and digital transformation” strategy, developed integrated intelligent information services with a customer-oriented approach, and built core sci-tech innovation capabilities and the new information infrastructure. The company also established industrial and capital ecologies featuring strong alliances and open cooperation, while carrying out system and mechanism reforms, achieving new results in high-quality development.

    China Telecom continued to enhance its 5G coverage and network quality, innovated e-surfing cloud handset device ecology, enriched the 5G application and privilege portfolio, and launched 5G cloud packages. The company optimized the service experience for users through ultimate convergence, facilitated the upgrade of individuals’ demands for emerging information consumption, continued to unleash the new round of data traffic benefits, and propelled the scale and value enhancement of its mobile subscribers.

    In 2021, mobile communication service revenues reached RMB184.2 billion, representing an increase of 4.9% from the previous year. The total number of subscribers reached 372 million, with subscribers’ net addition maintaining the industry-leading position for four consecutive years. Meanwhile, the penetration rate of 5G package subscribers reached 50.4%, maintaining the industry-leading position.

    Combining cloud, security, 5G, data, and intelligence, China Telecom developed scene-based integrated intelligent solutions and proactively empowered the transformation and upgrades of traditional industries. In 2021, revenue from industrial digitalization reached RMB98.9 billion, representing year-on-year growth of 19.4%.

    On 20 August 2021, the company successfully listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, leveraging wider financing channels to expand ecological cooperation and implement more flexible incentive measures.

    Chairman Ke noted that China Telecom has had a promising start under the “14th Five-Year Plan” in 2021. In 2022, the company will seize opportunities arising from the development of the digital economy, putting all efforts into promoting high-quality development and jointly creating a new pattern for the information and communications industry.

  • Malaysia confirms utilizing SWN model for 5G implementation

    Malaysia confirms utilizing SWN model for 5G implementation

    The Malaysian government is sticking to its plan of deploying 5G through a single wholesale network (SWN). In a joint statement from the ministries of finance and communications and multimedia, up to 70% equity in the wholly state-owned 5G company, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), will be available to telcos.

    Malaysian finance minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz emphasized that the maintenance of the SWN model is the government’s firm stance on policy continuity. “The implementation of 5G will drive the country’s socio-economic transformation and this is estimated to contribute RM 659 billion to the value of GDP until 2030,” Aziz explained.

    The finalized decision has come in contrast to the concerns among wireless carriers that a single, shared 5G network could hamper digital competitiveness. Nonetheless, the government will retain a 30% equity stake in DNB while the majority of the stakes are intended for operators. It is worthy to note that this special-purpose vehicle company was established in early March 2021 to drive 5G infrastructure development in Malaysia.

    Accessing DNB’s 5G network is estimated to cost less than what major local telecom operators such as Celcom Axiata, Digi, Maxis, and U Mobile have incurred during 4G rollouts. In line with this, DNB has offered free 5G services to service providers until March 31 as part of its commercial trial. Aiming to achieve 80% coverage of populated areas by 2024, the trial is bound to be extended until June 30 to allow more operators to sign up.

    Access to high-quality 5G services would accelerate the recovery of the post-pandemic Malaysian economy. Moreover, “the SWN model will help bridge the urban-rural digital divide to enable all Malaysians to enjoy high-quality 5G services and be widely available to them through telecommunications companies,” said Malaysian communications and multimedia minister Annuar Musa.

    In retrospect, the Malaysian government refused the prior recommendation of having a dual wholesale network (DWN) model and selected Ericsson to develop the country’s 5G network infrastructure.

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  • Singtel launches industry’s first all-in-one platform for enterprise 5G edge computing and cloud services

    Singtel launches industry’s first all-in-one platform for enterprise 5G edge computing and cloud services

    Singtel expands its offering for the enterprise market with the launch of Paragon, a revolutionary platform that aggregates networks, edge computing, public cloud, and applications ecosystems to accelerate enterprises’ digital transformation.

    Offering an all-in-one solution for digital transformation, Paragon seamlessly aggregates and manages low-latency networks and edge cloud resources, allowing enterprises to tap on Singtel’s 5G network to securely deploy applications across the edge at Singtel MEC and a public cloud of choice. Through a single interface, enterprises can activate network slices on demand, deploy mission-critical applications on Singtel MEC and access a robust ecosystem of partner applications.

    This significantly reduces the complexity and time needed to adopt 5G MEC and low-latency applications and services, giving enterprises the agility, flexibility, and scalability needed to transform operations and adapt to new business models in a digital economy.

    “Many enterprises are undergoing rapid digitalization while exploring and developing tailored 5G solutions for deployment in their industries. We understand the challenges and complexities that they face in managing the various networks, edge cloud applications, and services with the required cyber security, resiliency, and demanding service assurances required, cost-effectively. Paragon was conceived, developed, and delivered to help enterprises meet these needs through a single platform,” said Bill Chang, chief executive officer, group enterprise, Singtel.

    One-stop digital transformation platform and strong 5G MEC ecosystem

    Developed in-house, Paragon empowers enterprises to adopt Singtel’s 5G network to deploy their edge computing applications and services independently, securely, and within minutes. These capabilities are bundled on the platform to provide enterprises a unified experience, delivering always-on connectivity and low latency with high bandwidth throughout to support industry 5G use cases including advanced logistics and manufacturing, smart transportation, and real-time fleet management and monitoring.

    Network 5G slices can be created almost instantly, autonomously, and as many times as needed. A network slice can be utilized only when needed for an intended duration to ensure cost optimization. Since enterprises pay only for what they use, Paragon reduces the operational and costs overhead otherwise incurred by businesses.

    For enterprises, the benefits are a shorter innovation curve and time-to-market, as well as better performance and faster decision-making at the edge, critical for use cases including autonomous systems like robotics, drones, and vehicles, immersive, video-rich experiences and powerful real-time edge AI use cases. Already, Paragon is being deployed for testbeds in the public sector. For instance, 5G trial uses cases are underway at Singapore’s Sentosa to bring the about built environment and tourism transformations.

    Through the Paragon Marketplace, which operates as an app store, Singtel’s ecosystem of partners can integrate their offerings through a robust industry-standard application programming interface (API) to rapidly build and deploy their solutions on the platform. As such, existing cloud-based 4G applications can migrate to 5G with ease. On the other end, end customers can easily source and adopt applications that solve their business challenges.

    Plans are in the pipeline to scale Paragon regionally and globally with other telcos. Partners on board Paragon can extend their solutions to multiple markets. Through the Singtel Partner Programme, Singtel aims to co-create and test more innovative solutions, driving wider 5G adoption across markets to bring forward a 5G future.

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  • Ooredoo Group Returns to Mobile World Congress 2022 as Telecoms Industry Continues Progress in Post-Pandemic New Normal

    Ooredoo Group Returns to Mobile World Congress 2022 as Telecoms Industry Continues Progress in Post-Pandemic New Normal

    Ooredoo, one of the world’s leading providers of ICT and a 5G pioneer, is to return to Mobile World Congress 2022 as the event resumes at the end of February.

    The key themes for this year’s event are 5G Connect, Advancing AI, Cloud Net, FinTech, Internet of Everything and Tech Horizon. In line with these themes, Ooredoo will update the industry on the many exciting developments it has been working on since the last edition of MWC, and will share exciting news of its latest partnerships, products and solutions.

    One such partnership is with FIFA, with Ooredoo Qatar being selected by the sports giant and the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy to provide a global network connecting Doha with various points of presence in Europe and Asia. The telco leader will explain how it is to build a dedicated multi-100Gig network that will offer broadcasters the quality and resiliency required for broadcast-grade video production, with media rights licensees being offered optimised resilient media solutions.

    Ooredoo Qatar will also share details of a groundbreaking solution, developed in partnership with technology giants Ericsson and Nokia, that will revolutionise connectivity for customers in the oil and gas industry. Having identified that such customers needed to replace older technology with a solution that facilitated connectivity in remote, challenging locations such as those offshore, Ooredoo and its partners developed a dedicated LTE network that would provide high-availability voice and data services to support oil and gas applications and operations in such remote locations beyond the normal fixed and mobile network footprint.

    In addition, the company will update the telecoms industry on its exciting venture into eSports, sharing details on its own eSports brand, Ooredoo Nation – Gamers’ Land. Recent developments include the launch of gaming Add-ons for postpaid plans; the launch of Channel 0, a dedicated gaming channel on Ooredoo tv; the latest Ooredoo Arena tournaments; and the signing of a partnership with Dell Technologies to provide sponsorship that will contribute to the eSports scene in Qatar and the region.

    Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, Managing Director and CEO, Ooredoo Group, said: “We are delighted to once again be participating in Mobile World Congress, the most important international event in our industry. As a pioneer in 5G, with a strategic commitment to investment in innovation and technology, we have several exciting developments to announce at the event, in line with the key themes. We look forward to sharing our experience and expertise, and to discovering news from our peers and the industry.”

  • Fourth radio interface technology added to 5G standards

    Fourth radio interface technology added to 5G standards

    Members of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) have approved the fourth technology as part of ongoing standards development for 5G mobile services.

    Known as “DECT 5G-SRIT”, the new technology supports a range of uses, from wireless telephony and audio streaming to the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) applications, particularly in smart cities. It was added in the first revision to ITU’s key recommendation IMT-2020, which broadly encompasses fifth-generation, or 5G, networks, services, and devices.

    This ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) Recommendation – providing a set of global technical 5G standards – reflects continual consultation and discussion among governments, companies, regulators, and other stakeholders dealing with radiocommunication worldwide.

    Along with fostering connectivity across borders, ITU promotes the global rollout of 5G as a key driver to achieve the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

    “New and emerging technologies like 5G will be essential to build an inclusive, sustainable future for all people, communities, and countries,” said ITU’s secretary-general, Houlin Zhao. “Under the ongoing International Mobile Telecommunications or IMT program, our diverse global membership continues its long-standing contribution to advance broadband mobile communications, furthering our mission to leave no one behind in connecting the world.”

    ITU – the United Nations agency entrusted with coordinating radio-frequency spectrum worldwide – has published the specifications for the new technology as RecommendationITU-R M.2150-1.

    The technology is designed to provide a slim but strong technical foundation for wireless applications deployed in a range of use cases, from cordless telephony to audio streaming, and from professional audio applications to the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) applications, such as building automation and monitoring.
    The European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) laid the essential groundwork jointly with the DECT Forum, a worldwide association of the digital enhanced cordless telecommunications (DECT) or wireless technology industry.

    ITU’s radiocommunication director, Mario Maniewicz, said: “The highly collaborative process involves substantial input from and coordination with the ITU Member States, equipment manufacturers, network operators, standards development organizations, and the academic community. ITU provides a unique global framework to discuss the capabilities of new radio technologies.”

    Andreas Zipp, chairman of the DECT Forum, welcomed the addition of the new technology to IMT-2020. “Inclusion as part of ITU’s global 5G standards affirms the significance of this technology moving forward,” he said

    Other candidate radio interface technologies underwent the international mobile telecommunication (IMT) evaluation process over the past year, although only one qualified to be added at this stage.

    The revised IMT-2020 recommendation now includes the new standard, which European standards developers recognized could support 5G uptake everywhere.
    “The ETSI DECT standard received IMT-2000 approval more than twenty years ago,” noted ETSI’s chief technical officer, Adrian Scrase. “5G therefore presented an ideal opportunity to develop this new, non-cellular, radio standard, which is particularly suited for smart meters, Industry 4.0, building management systems, logistics and smart cities.”

    Based on the requirements set out in ITU’s evaluation process, the radio interface technology demonstrates worldwide compatibility in terms of operation, equipment, and roaming. Italso addresses the ultra-reliable low latency (URLLC) capability stipulated by IMT-2020 – the underlying global coordination framework for so-called 5G services.

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