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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.

  • Chinese social media Weibo closes 7% lower in Hong Kong debut

    Chinese social media Weibo closes 7% lower in Hong Kong debut

    Weibo officially launched its secondary listing on the Main Board of the HKEx on Wednesday. The public offering price of the stock was HK$272.80. On the first day, Weibo closed 7% lower at HK$253.20.

    One of the leading social media platforms in China, Weibo secondary listing raised about HK$385 million. Its main listing is in the US.

    As a pioneer and leading social media in China, Weibo has been leading the industry’s development and innovation for years, with a rapidly growing user base. In September 2021, Weibo had 573 million MAUs and 248 million average DAUs.

    In addition to a large and diverse user base, there are also significant connections and interactions among users on Weibo. In June 2021, its users generated 15.7 billion monthly social interactions on the platform, including the activities of like, comment, repost, and follow. As of June 30, 2021, Weibo had 318 billion “follow” relationships existing on its platform. During the track record period, Weibo’s ratio of average DAUs to MAUs remains as high as 43% to 45%, demonstrating users’ high engagement and stickiness to the platform.

    Weibo offers the most comprehensive coverage of content categories. Its users can create, discover, consume and share various formats of content, including text, photo, video, live streaming, audio, and topic. In June 2021, Weibo had 46 content verticals, such as celebrities and entertainment, humor, media, variety shows, and TV programs, fashion, cosmetics, finance, and games. Among these content verticals, 28 of them each has over 10 billion monthly views.

    In addition, Weibo attracts a large number of content creators who remain highly engaged and active on the platform. In June 2021, Weibo had 41.9 million monthly active content creators, and top content creators reached 2.3 million.

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  • Malaysia to finalize single 5G network decision

    Malaysia to finalize single 5G network decision

    Malaysia will finalize plans to pursue a single wholesale 5G network by January. This week, Malaysia’s communications minister Annuar Musa revealed that the cabinet is considering allowing several 5G providers after telcos voiced concerns that this would stifle competition.

    In February, the government announced plans to switch to a single wholesale network after initial plans to apportion spectrum to telcos. Under the existing plan, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), a state-owned company is mandated to deploy a national network to speed up 5G deployment and reduce deployment costs. However, this could risk hampering Malaysia’s digital competitiveness.

    In September, Julain Gorman, head of Asia Pacific, GSMA said, “Malaysia has a thriving mobile economy and a growing digital sector, but the Single Wholesale Network model proposal risks that. 5G technology is ready to be deployed rapidly, and Malaysian operators have already made significant infrastructure investments.”

    The GSMA expressed that “a nationalized monopoly will replace the competitive wholesale market” and render the industry “entirely reliant on wholesale access from DNB for 5G services”.

    In the meantime, DNB will be offering wholesale 5G services to telcos for free. This would commence next week and end 31 March 2021.

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  • M1 grows enterprise digital services and regional expansion with acquisition

    M1 grows enterprise digital services and regional expansion with acquisition

    M1 announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire up to 70% stake in Glocomp Systems (M) Sdn Bhd (Glocomp), as well as its affiliated companies, Global Computing Solutions Sdn Bhd (GCS) and GCIS Sdn Bhd (GCIS). All three companies are Malaysia-based digital solutions providers. The remaining 30% stake will continue to be held by its founders.

    M1, through its wholly-owned subsidiary based in Malaysia, AsiaPac Technology (M) Sdn Bhd, will pay a total purchase consideration of up to SGD$36 million. As part of this transaction, GCS and GCIS will be restructured as wholly-owned subsidiaries of Glocomp and managed by a unified management team. The founders of Glocomp, including – Joseph Giam, Managing Director; Alex Liew, Executive Director; Chan Tze Ming, Executive Director; and Chan Yue Mun, Executive Director will continue to play active roles as senior management of Glocomp.

    Glocomp has been operating for more than 24 years in the industry and is one of the region’s pioneer Information and Communications Technology (ICT) solution providers, with a comprehensive portfolio of solutions. Glocomp’s strong competencies in the areas of computing and information management, IP communications, security and privacy, automation and analytics, chart the path to strategically position the company to meet the growing demand in digital services. The company’s excellent track record, broad coverage across multiple industry verticals and close collaboration with key technology and channel partners, provide Glocomp with the robust foundation needed to be competitive in the enterprise digital solution market.

    The investment into Glocomp marks M1’s continued expansion of its cloud and managed services business, following the acquisition of AsiaPac Technology Pte Ltd (AsiaPac) in 2018. This transaction is the initial strategic expansion into other regional markets starting with Malaysia. The Glocomp acquisition is a natural extension of M1’s cloud services business and provides strong synergies with AsiaPac’s hybrid multi-cloud competencies and established partnerships. Glocomp also adds new capabilities and talent resources to M1 with certified competencies in cybersecurity, enterprise systems and multi-cloud infrastructure.

    M1, a subsidiary of Keppel Corporation, is a key pillar of Keppel Group’s connectivity business. By building upon its enterprise capabilities, M1 aims to strengthen innovation to enhance Keppel’s suite of connectivity offerings for sustainable urbanization. Additionally, this investment into Glocomp will not only provide recurring revenue contribution to the Group, but also generates overseas revenue for M1.

    “The addition of Glocomp to our portfolio marks another milestone for M1 as we continue to strengthen our enterprise digital service capabilities while accelerating growth in the region. We are thrilled to have Glocomp, a pioneer in the ICT industry with over two decades of experience, to be part of our growing team. Importantly, Glocomp’s expertise in the ICT sphere helps M1 to advance Keppel Vision 2030 and continuously create value for enterprises through innovative technology and digital solutions,” said Mr. Manjot Singh Mann, Chief Executive Officer, M1.

    “Glocomp has established itself as one of the premier enterprise solutions providers in Malaysia and remains committed to developing in-country ICT talent capital while fostering regional investment in the country. We are excited to be part of M1, leveraging its competencies in connectivity and cloud infrastructure and look forward to driving strong synergies with M1 as well as enhancing our overall suite of offerings. This opportunity will equip Glocomp with the necessary support to expedite growth in the region, and strengthen our position in the ICT sector with major global technology partnerships,” commented Mr. Joseph Giam, Managing Director, Glocomp.

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  • Nokia to power KDDI’s 5G networks with standalone core and monetization solutions

    Nokia to power KDDI’s 5G networks with standalone core and monetization solutions

    Nokia has announced that Japanese operator KDDI has selected Nokia’s 5G Core and Converged Charging software to support its transition to a fully automated, cloud-native 5G Core architecture.

    Nokia’s cloud-native 5G Core’s near zero-touch automation capabilities help operators drive greater scale and reliability. Following the evolution of KDDI’s networks to 5G standalone core, subscribers will experience lower latency, increased bandwidth and higher capacity.

    Nokia’s open 5G Core architecture gives KDDI the flexibility to be responsive to market demands while controlling costs by streamlining operations and unlocking crucial capabilities, such as network slicing. Developed around DevOps principles, Nokia’s 5G Core will automate the lifecycle management of KDDI’s networks, as well as enable continuous software delivery and integration.

    Nokia will also deploy 5G monetization and data management software solutions including cloud-native Converged Charging, Signaling, Policy Controller, Mediation and Registers to capture new 5G revenue opportunities, enhance business velocity and agility, and streamline the operator’s network operations.

    With Nokia’s monetization solutions, KDDI will be able to monetize new opportunities within the 5G economy. This includes 5G network slicing and network as a service offering, IoT and new business models for B2B2X services through a containerized, microservices-based solution that enables services-based integrations with new 5G network functions meeting standards requirements for 5G convergent charging systems.

    Other products in the deal include Nokia’s Digital Operations software, Cloud Operations Manager, NetAct network management system and Archive Cloud to automate the backup and storage of network data. Solutions will be deployed across Nokia cloud infrastructure, a cloud-native solution that integrates multi-vendor and multi-technology environments.

    Tatsuo Sato, Vice President and Managing Officer, Technology Planning, KDDI, said: “The deployment of Nokia’s solutions marks a key milestone in the evolution of our 5G architecture. The evolution of our 5G architecture will enable us to fully automate and provide better services to our customers. We are pleased to be continuing our strong relationship with Nokia.”

    John Lancaster-Lennox, Head of Market Unit Japan at Nokia, said: “We look forward to expanding our 25-year relationship with KDDI with the deployment of our standalone 5G Core solutions. With crucial monetization and operations functions, such as network slicing, KDDI will unlock key revenue opportunities and benefit from increased operational efficiencies as well.”

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  • Singapore, UK sign MOUs on digital trade, digital identities and cybersecurity

    Singapore, UK sign MOUs on digital trade, digital identities and cybersecurity

    Singapore and the United Kingdom will work more closely to facilitate digital trade between the countries, as part of a partnership that will make digital transactions by businesses easier, safer, and cheaper.

    The partnership was deepened by the inking of three memorandums of understanding (MOUs) by the two countries on Monday (Nov 29).

    The MOUs will strengthen the digital connectivity between them, said Singapore’s Ministry of Communications and Information and the UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport in a joint statement.

    “In 2019, 70 percent of UK cross-border services exports to Singapore were digitally delivered,” said the government organizations. The exports amounted to £3.2 billion (S$5.8 billion) in value.

    “These MOUs will further support opportunities to grow digital delivery of cross-border services between the UK and Singapore, provide a basis for working closely with like-minded digital partners, and help set a global benchmark on high-standards digital cooperation to bring economic and societal benefits to both countries,” they added.

    The MOUs will also support the shared goals and key tenets of the UK-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement, which seeks to promote trusted, robust and connected digital markets for people and businesses.

    The agreement, which is being negotiated, will establish rules to enable trusted cross-border data flows and ensure high standards in data protection.

    Singapore’s Minister for Communications and Information Josephine Teo and the UK’s Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Nadine Dorries signed the MOUs in London on Monday.

    Mrs. Teo is also in London to attend the London Future Tech Forum, which aims to facilitate discussion on the role of technology in supporting open societies and tackling global challenges, among other things. Participants include governments and those from academia.

    Under the first MOU, the countries will share knowledge and implementation of pilot projects in areas such as electronic trade documents and invoicing.

    This will help drive the development and adoption of digital trade facilitation solutions at a bilateral and international level, said the ministries.

    Benefits to the digitalization of trade include improving accessibility for small and medium-sized enterprises to engage in cross-border trade, among other things.

    “The sharing of best practices will also influence the creation of secure global supply chains and interoperable digital ecosystems,” added the ministries.

    Under the second MOU, Singapore and the UK will work more closely to develop mutual recognition of digital identities between the countries.

    The MOU is “an important step in the route to achieving interoperability of digital identity regimes between different jurisdictions”, which can allow for more reliable identity verification and faster processing of applications, among other things, the ministries added.

    “This would, in turn, reduce barriers in cross-border trade and enable businesses and individuals to navigate the international digital economy with greater ease, confidence and security.”

  • Malaysia PM launches Huawei’s Customer Solution Innovation Center

    Malaysia PM launches Huawei’s Customer Solution Innovation Center

    The newly refurbished and upgraded Huawei Customer Solution Innovation Center (CSIC) has been officially launched by prime minister, Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob, as part of celebrations to commemorate Huawei’s 20th anniversary in Malaysia.

    The state-of-the-art technology and solutions displayed in Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd’s (Huawei Malaysia) CSIC also aim to assist the nation in becoming the ASEAN Digital Hub.

    Huawei’s CSIC was designed as an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Hub and Centre of Excellence to drive the industry’s open ecosystem and accelerate digital economy transformation in Malaysia.

    The CSIC, located in Integra Tower at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, aggregates the company’s over 120 reference applications and services globally.

    Huawei’s customers and partners are able to leverage this innovative platform to design and test technology solutions, verify new business models, and nurture innovative applications and services to both the public and private sectors.

    Present during the ceremony was the chief executive officer of Huawei Malaysia, Michael Yuan.

    Delivering the keynote address during the launch, Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri said the CSIC is a testament to Huawei Malaysia’s commitment to the nation’s digital transformation.

    “Thank you Huawei for accelerating digital transformation and strengthening the development of Malaysia’s innovative platforms since 20 years ago. For that, I would like to wish Huawei a happy 20th anniversary! We will always appreciate and value your contribution towards the nation’s digital talent development.”

    “I was informed that most of Huawei Malaysia’s employees are local. Talents are a crucial part in accelerating digital transformation for the nation,” he said.

    The prime minister added that he believes Malaysia has the capacity and capability to achieve 100% digital inclusivity, especially among the vulnerable communities.

    “I am proud to say, in embracing the concept of Keluarga Malaysia, Huawei has taken an important role in helping the government address this matter. I hope more corporations will come forward to follow in your footsteps,” he said.

    Yuan said that through the CSIC, Huawei Malaysia would continue to bring global experiences to serve the needs of the ICT industry in Malaysia and to assist local stakeholders in succeeding in their businesses.

    “This center will act as a catalyst to accelerate Malaysia’s digital transformation and to capitalize on the potential of advanced technologies and assist in driving investments in the digital economy for the nation at the same time,” added Yuan.

    He further pointed out, “It is our belief that a better-connected Malaysia will have a prosperous future. We are currently in a period where ubiquitous connectivity is no longer a luxury, but a vital requirement for a country to achieve fully developed status. Therefore, we look forward to growing together with Malaysia, to playing an integral part in the nation’s technology-based economy and to building a better future for all Malaysians.”

    Among the business-to-business solutions available and showcased at the CSIC included Huawei’s 5G solutions around the world, including those for smart cities and autonomous vehicles as well as Huawei’s Smart Education system, including hybrid learning, which increases participation and engagement between students and teachers, and allows for some students attending class in-person while others join virtually.

    Cloud computing was another highlight – where Huawei is working with Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) on their Alpha Edge, the only Malaysian-owned cloud and AI infrastructure and services to enterprises and government institutions that ensures data sovereignty.

    Also showcased were agro-tech systems with AI technology that could save time, monitor quality, as well as predict yield and output. This included the production of premium caviar in Malaysia using this technology.

    The CSIC also displayed network infrastructure devices that utilize the latest technological advances in 5G and telecommunications as well as Huawei’s RuralStar, which overcomes the technical challenges of connecting remote areas, bringing connectivity to hard-to-reach communities.

    Huawei also presented the Huawei RuralStar solution to Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri as part of its corporate social responsibility initiative to bridge the digital divide in the prime minister’s constituency of Bera.

    This initiative is part of Huawei’s global vision of bringing digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected, intelligent world.

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  • Creating value with private 5G networks to transform industries

    Creating value with private 5G networks to transform industries

    Private 5G networks are on the rise as transformative applications support digitalization and IoT. Telecom Review Asia Pacific speaks to Wang Quan, vice president of ZTE Corporation, to find out how private 5G networks provide operators with new opportunities as 5G brings strong impetus for transformation across industries.

    How do private 5G networks add value to operators and transform industries?

    The concept of private networks is not exclusive to 5G. In the 2G, 3G, and 4G eras, industries with special requirements on network security and stability, such as railways, airports, power and oil already rely on customized private networks to power secure and robust connectivity. However, traditional private networks have their limitations – they are unable to support massive connectivity and can only be used to complement mainstream public networks. Increasingly, traditional private networks can no longer support the demands of real-time and remote operations in the intelligent era where man-machine interconnectedness grows.

    With the maturity of 5G technology and the dawn of Industrial 4.0, more enterprises are now embracing digital and intelligent transformation. To address future demands, enterprises that depend on traditional private networks are now exploring new network technologies.

    The need for deterministic networks in vertical industries with high demands on latency, reliability, and security makes private 5G networks the best choice going forward. For example, in extreme work environments such as mines, UHD videos, high bandwidth, and ultra-low latency are requirements to remotely control excavators and other industrial devices in real-time. In smart factories, a large number of sensors are connected to networks to carry out real-time automation and monitoring to execute safe processes.

    Across many industries, intelligent networks demand deterministic networks with low latency and low jitter. In these scenarios, private 5G networks are capable of providing customized SLA guarantees for a wide range of customized industrial applications, therein presenting enormous opportunities for operators to realize private 5G as a service to tap on new economic growth points.

    Can you tell us about the benefits of ZTE’s private 5G networks?

    As a key provider of integrated communications and information solutions, ZTE has always been at the forefront of private 5G networks innovations and applications.

    ZTE provides an all scenario private 5G network covering RAN, core network, transmission, industrial gateway and other end-to-end products. For example, ZTE’s dedicated industrial core network, industry 5GC (i5GC), integrates and optimizes more than 10 key network functions of the 5G core network, requiring just one server to complete the deployment of an entire network. This brings ease to deployment, especially in underserved areas with limited resources.

    In addition, ZTE’s iCube all-in-one cloud network solution supports customer-centric 5G industry private networks and edge cloud services. The solution offers agility and scalability as voice, BBU, OLT, MEC and industry applications can be loaded on-demand to provide customers with highly-customized integrated private industry cloud network services.

    ZTE’s private 5G network solution encompasses private network consultation, planning, design, customization, integration, installation, and deployment. This new “Private 5G as a Service” business model supports operators in rapidly customizing private 5G networks for industries.

    ZTE has also built Openlab, a center for innovation, to flexibly construct customized end-to-end private 5G networks and provide an incubation environment for 5G application innovation. Together with operators and industry partners, ZTE can incubate innovative solutions. To date, ZTE has joined hands with more than 500 partners to explore innovative 5G application scenarios across verticals including smart manufacturing, power grid, port, mining, healthcare, education, and agriculture. ZTE will continue to work with global operators and industry partners to fast-track industrial developments.

    Can you share with us ZTE’s latest innovations in cloud infrastructure? 

    Cloud platforms manage and shield underlying hardware through the hypervisor virtualization layer to provide services such as VMs, containers, and bare metals to achieve resource sharing. However, having the hypervisor virtualization layer deployed on the server results in server performance loss and serious security risks.

    ZTE’s new-generation cloud infrastructure addresses these concerns by uploading the management control module and hypervisor virtualization layer of the cloud platform from the server to the NEO cloud card. Only the lightweight hypervisor resides on the server, hence reducing the CPU load of the server to achieve zero performance loss. At the same time, the NEO card is pre-integrated with the hypervisor virtualization layer, such that users can conveniently deploy the layer to ensure ease of use.

    Suited for use with general servers, the ZTE NEO card enables server cloudification to be easily achieved by merely inserting the card into the server to power the widespread use of the private and public clouds.

    Network functions virtualization (NFV) has evolved from dedicated hardware to general hardware. The most important feature of NFV is that it provides unified operating resources for upper layer virtualized network functions. However, general hardware such as x86 does not meet large bandwidth and low latency requirements – found lacking in terms of data forwarding efficiency and data-parallel processing.

    As such, hardware acceleration is critical to improving network performance in the 5G network. Through hardware acceleration, the system can accelerate the decoupling between hardware and servers to achieve resource pooling and improve network resource utilization.

    There are two decoupling approaches for hardware acceleration – software and hardware decoupling for standardized hardware acceleration cards, as well as software and hardware decoupling for dedicated NE functions. To achieve unified management of NFV heterogeneous acceleration hardware, the ETSI has formulated the software framework standard of unified management for NFV acceleration hardware, while OpenStack provides a general hardware acceleration management framework.

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  • Telenor and CP Group to explore Thailand telecom merger

    Telenor and CP Group to explore Thailand telecom merger

    C.P. Group and Telenor Group are exploring the creation of a new telecom-tech company comprising of True and dtac. The new company will be a merger of equals, and bring the best of the two local companies, with the support of its key sponsoring shareholders.

    The new company will be a leading telecommunications service provider with capabilities to accelerate Thailand’s progressive digital technology agenda in terms of network performance, innovation, investment strength and employer brand.

    Mr. Suphachai Chearavanont, chief executive officer of C.P. Group and chairman of the board of True Corporation said, “The telecom and technology sectors are key to enabling Thailand to move up the development curve and to create broad-based prosperity.  As a telecom-tech company, we can help unleash the enormous potential of Thai businesses and digital entrepreneurs as well as attract more of the best and the brightest from around the world to do business in our country.”

    “Today is a step forward in that direction. We hope to empower a whole new generation to fulfill their potential to become digital entrepreneurs leveraging an advanced telecom infrastructure. The emergence in Thailand of IoT, AI, Cloud, and new generations of mobile network technologies will have a huge effect on the way we do everything,” he said.

    Mr. Sigve Brekke, president and chief executive officer of Telenor Group, said, “We have experienced an accelerated digitalization of Asian societies, and as we move forward, both consumers and businesses expect more advanced services and high-quality connectivity. We believe that the new company can take advantage of this digital shift to support Thailand’s digital leadership role, by taking global technology advancements into attractive services and high-quality products.”

    Mr. Jørgen A. Rostrup, executive vice president of Telenor Group and head of Telenor Asia said, “The proposed transaction will advance our strategy to strengthen our presence in Asia, create value, and support long-term market development in the region.  We have a long-standing commitment to both Thailand and the Asian region, and this collaboration will strengthen it further. Our access to new technologies as well as the best human capital will be a vital contribution to the new company.”

    Mr. Rostrup added that the new company has the intention to raise venture capital funding together with partners of USD 100-200 million to invest in promising digital startups focusing on new products and services for the benefit of all Thai consumers.

    If the transaction proceeds, it will consist of a voluntary tender offer (VTO) subject to satisfaction of conditions for all outstanding shares of dtac and True, followed by the amalgamation of dtac and True creating a new company. The VTO price for dtac will be THB 47.76, which represents a 25 percent premium to the one-month VWAP for dtac shares, and the VTO price for True will be THB 5.09, which represents a 25 percent premium to the one-month VWAP for True shares. The agreed exchange ratio is 10.221 True shares per dtac share. The outcome of the VTO will determine the final equalized ownership percentage between C.P. Group and Telenor Group.

    All shareholders of dtac and True will have the choice of participating in the tender offer or continue as shareholders in the combined company, which will be listed on the stock exchange of Thailand. The combined company faces a challenging operational environment over the next years and C.P. Group and Telenor Group recognize that not all shareholders may want to participate in this journey, which is why a cash alternative at an attractive premium is offered. The involved parties aim to reach the necessary agreements by Q1 2022.

    The current operations of True and dtac will continue to run their businesses independently until the transaction is completed. The transaction will be subject to approvals by relevant boards and shareholders and customary regulatory approvals, and the parties acknowledge that there is no certainty as to the completion of the transaction.

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  • TRAI releases consultation paper on satellite gateway

    TRAI releases consultation paper on satellite gateway

    Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has extended an invitation to industry stakeholders to gather inputs on a framework for satellite gateways in India. This will facilitate the launch of satellite communication services in India.

    Prior to this, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has requested TRAI to furnish recommendations on licensing framework for establishing a satellite gateway. DoT has requested TRAI to address existing limitations in satellite gateway operations as there is no provision regarding the use of gateway by service providers established by a satellite constellation operator.

    The regulator is called to look into factors and make recommendations on entry fee, license fee, bank guarantee, NOCC charges, and other issues which may concern LEO, MEO and HTS systems.

    TRAI has since released a consultation paper to garner inputs by 13 December.

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  • Huawei, China Mobile to back Haier for 5G-powered smart manufacturing solutions

    Huawei, China Mobile to back Haier for 5G-powered smart manufacturing solutions

    Huawei and China Mobile are supporting Haier, China’s largest consumer electronics and home appliance producer, in successfully applying innovative manufacturing solutions combining 5G and mobile edge computing in its smart factories.

    Developed at the joint-innovation base established in February, the solutions integrate 5G edge computing with artificial intelligence and particularly machine vision in manufacturing environments. They are applicable to various manufacturing scenarios where they can perform a variety of functions. Haier has launched the technologies at seven smart factories in China, and plans to expand the implementation at 20 factories by the end of 2022.

    Huawei is expected to help Haier deploy the 5G solutions and transform about 100 of its manufacturing facilities globally within five years. The three also plan to offer the technologies to other leading manufacturers in China and abroad.

    5G provides manufacturers with a lot of bandwidth —up to 20GBps— and latencies as low as 1 millisecond. Mobile edge computing, one of 5G’s main features, delivers extremely low-latency cloud computing. However, it is still at a nascent stage for manufacturers aspiring to take advantage of 5G’s full capabilities.

    The solutions enable the implementation of high-performance machine vision in a manufacturing environment through low-latency connections between high-definition cameras, the AI modules at the factory site, and the training servers located off-site.

    Deployed on a 5G-enabled production line, machine vision saves manufacturers costs by rapidly performing QC checks with over 99% accuracy, at least 10% more accurate than without the function. Compared with the visual inspection performed by humans, machine vision delivers much fewer false-positive and false-negative results.

    The three partners also developed technologies to boost site and staff safety. Unlike traditional video surveillance systems that only have a recording function, AI surveillance can automatically create alarms in real-time when it detects anomalies on the factory floor. The technology can identify non-authorized individuals, process safety violations, and workers who aren’t where they should be.

    In addition, the new solutions help to efficiently coordinate the large number of people, machines, and materials involved on a complex production line as a whole. The solutions achieve this through high-definition cameras, 5G gateways, and smart industrial terminals that work in unison with the help of artificial intelligence.

    In future, the solutions will be further improved to provide “digital twins” visualization. Digital twin is the reproduction of a real and dynamic production floor into a virtual digital world, a meta-universe. Digital twin makes just-in-time preventive maintenance a reality and enables the simulation of changes to the production process before they are implemented. The three are also experimenting with how 5G environment can support automated guided vehicles to transfer items in warehouses or manufacturing lines more accurately and efficiently.

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  • 5G: Enabling more than just connectivity

    5G: Enabling more than just connectivity

    5G, in many ways, is still in its infancy. The good news is that it is growing and evolving quickly. Much has been said (and written) about the theoretical benefits of 5G: High speeds, low latency and massive connection density. But, not many organizations understand what 5G actually means for their industrial environments. Many organizations—while intrigued by the possibilities of incorporating 5G into their operational and customer-facing processes—often lack the resources to experiment and invest in a long-drawn cycle of “unproven” innovation.

    Hence, it is important for organizations to work with suitable partners. They have the foresight and resources to further flesh out various 5G proof of concepts and understand how these concepts mesh with the organization’s broader digital transformation agenda.

    IDC has identified a few 5G use cases that will have maximum impact across verticals:

    Process automation and robotics
    5G addresses the challenges of today’s static manufacturing lines, increasing machines’ mobility. This reduces the time required to service the machines and allows them to be reconfigured on the fly. In addition to supporting such automation and robotics use cases on public networks through network slicing, the 5G network’s ultra-low latency will allow robotic controls to be processed at the edge, creating further opportunities to improve machine coordination and reduce costs.

    Cloud gaming
    5G and multi-access edge computing is going to further accelerate the adoption of mobile cloud-streamed gaming (CSG) services. When users are mobile and on a cellular network, their experiences often vary to a much greater extent today. This relative network unreliability puts mobile CSG services at a significant disadvantage versus wired/Wi-Fi services. The gaming market is set to explode as network operators bring more 5G mid-band spectrum online in the next few years.

    Autonomous vehicles
    The pathway to increased guided and vehicle autonomy will be largely built on the promise of 5G delivering Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Level 4 full self-driving vehicles, as well as accelerating SAE Levels 1 and 2 vehicle growth over the next five years. 5G-based cellular vehicle to everything (C-V2X) will significantly enhance all types of vehicular communication. 5G’s ultra-low latency and network slicing characteristics, together with edge cloud, will enable innovative applications, resulting in safer and more cost-effective transportation.

    Video analytics and surveillance
    Wireless has been somewhat problematic for applications such as video surveillance due to network capacity, reliability and security issues. IDC believes that 5G will propel wireless video surveillance to become a dominant force over the next five years. An increasing number of applications such as wireless perimeter control, aerial drones and home security systems will increase demand for wireless technology that can support high-resolution video securely. 5G along with edge compute will ensure secure and timely ingestion and processing of video feeds to help organizations make data-driven decisions in real-time.

    Immersive experiences
    5G provides organizations with exactly what is needed of networks to transform B2B2C consumer experiences by satisfying the appetite for immersive entertainment, gaming and broadcast experiences. In addition to mobile augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR) being used by field and repair technicians who operate far from a central office, there is a considerable opportunity for entertainment venues and sports arenas to provide a 360-degree VR experience at large-scale events such as sports meets and music concerts. Current network generations lack the throughput and capacity required to deliver high-definition content, but 5G, along with edge deployments, allows for ultra-low latency and processing times that are required to deliver a real-time and enhanced immersive experience.

    Industry 4.0 is acknowledged as a transformative series of initiatives around how we make and distribute goods. 5G is poised to have a significant impact across verticals such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, media and smart cities. IDC believes that a large number of organisations will boost spending on 5G in 2021-22. Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) regional Internet of Things use case spend across manufacturing, resources and infrastructure is forecast to hit US$295 billion in 2025. With such investments in play, organisations should look out for a service provider—with a platform-based approach to 5G, a broad partner ecosystem and a proven track record of helping organisations on their digital transformation journeys—to evaluate potential 5G use cases and get started early to gain a significant edge over their competitors.

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  • Viasat buys Inmarsat for $7.3 million to create a global communications innovator

    Viasat buys Inmarsat for $7.3 million to create a global communications innovator

    Viasat has entered into a definitive agreement under which Viasat will acquire Inmarsat in a transaction valued at $7.3 billion, comprised of $850.0 million in cash, approximately 46.36 million shares of Viasat common stock valued at $3.1 billion based on the closing price on Friday November 5, 2021, and the assumption of $3.4 billion of net debt.

    The combination will create a leading global communications innovator with enhanced scale and scope to affordably, securely and reliably connect the world. The complementary assets and resources of the new organization will enable the availability of advanced new services in mobile and fixed segments, driving greater customer choice in broadband communications and narrowband services, including IoT.

    The combined company intends to integrate the spectrum, satellite and terrestrial assets of both companies into a global high-capacity hybrid space and terrestrial network, capable of delivering superior services in fast-growing commercial and government sectors. This advanced architecture will create a framework incorporating the most favorable characteristics of multi-band, multi-orbit satellites and terrestrial air-to-ground systems that can deliver higher speeds, more bandwidth, greater density of bandwidth at high demand locations like airport and shipping hubs and lower latency at lower cost than either company could provide alone.

    Both companies have proven track records of product and service innovation. Viasat has advanced North American residential and aviation connectivity and defense communications with technology and business models embraced by customers. Viasat is also recognized for driving change through its pioneering ultra-high-capacity satellite technology, which has delivered superior value at attractive, affordable economics.

    Inmarsat has an exceptional presence in the growing global mobility segment and is at the forefront of network design with its recently announced multi-dimensional mesh network. It is preparing to expand its global network later this year with its most powerful and advanced software-defined commercial communications satellites ever, offering both Ka- and L-band capabilities. Inmarsat has a global presence, a robust distribution channel spanning the rapidly growing mobility, government, IoT and enterprise sectors and currently provides safety and connectivity services to more than one million mobility and defense platforms.

    “This is a transformative combination that advances our common ambitions to connect the world. The unique fusion of teams, technologies and resources provides the ingredients and scale needed for profitable growth through the creation and delivery of innovative broadband and IoT services in new and existing fast-growing segments and geographies,” said Viasat’s Executive Chairman Mark Dankberg. “Inmarsat’s dual-band global mobile network, unique L-band resources, skills and capabilities in the U.K. and excellent technical and operational talent worldwide, are powerful complements to Viasat’s business. Together, we can advance broadband communications and create new hybrid space and terrestrial networks that drive greater performance, coverage, speed, reliability and value for customers. We look forward to welcoming the Inmarsat team into the Viasat family.”

    “Joining with Viasat is the right combination for Inmarsat at the right time,” said Rajeev Suri, CEO of Inmarsat. “Viasat is a terrific innovator and Inmarsat brings some powerful additions: global reach, a broad distribution channel, robust business momentum and a presence in highly attractive global mobility segments. Together, the two companies will create a new global player with the scale and scope to help shape the future of a dynamic and growing industry. The combination will create a strong future for Inmarsat and be well-positioned to offer greater choice for customers around the world, enhanced scope for partners and new opportunities for employees. The industrial logic is compelling and ensures that the U.K. has a strong and sustainable presence in the critical space sector for the long term.”

    Viasat plans to build on Inmarsat’s presence in the U.K. and is committed to preserving and growing the investment of the combined company in U.K. space communications, as well as supporting the recently published National Space Strategy. The combined company will cooperatively engage with the U.K. government with a view to operating in the U.K. consistent with the commitments previously made by Inmarsat/Connect BidCo, and expects continued constructive engagement across the U.K.’s thriving innovation ecosystem. It further intends to work closely with the U.K. government to bring additional space capabilities and other advanced technologies to the country as well as long-term, highly skilled engineering and related jobs for U.K.-based employees. Viasat plans to preserve and grow Inmarsat’s London headquarters, as well as its footprint in Australia and Canada and across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.

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  • TPG Telecom triples 5G coverage

    TPG Telecom triples 5G coverage

    TPG Telecom has reached over 85 percent 5G population coverage in ten of Australia’s largest cities and regions as it delivers a smarter 5G network faster following last year’s merger.

    Capable of delivering speeds of more than 400Mbps, 5G coverage is available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Wollongong, and NSW Central Coast.

    The milestone has been achieved with the launch of the company’s 5G standalone core, which connects devices directly to 5G without the need for a 4G connection, supercharging its 700MHz spectrum holdings.

    TPG Telecom Chief Executive Officer Iñaki Berroeta said the 5G standalone core is a game-changer for the company and its mobile and home internet customers.

    “This is truly a pivotal moment for TPG Telecom and sets us up to deliver 5G’s full potential,” Mr Berroeta said. “The upgraded core network has amplified our 700 MHz spectrum, tripling our 5G coverage and giving us greater reach across suburbs and in densely populated areas. This will give us a competitive boost going forward, with our 5G coverage on par or ahead of other mobile networks in many areas. It not only means more coverage in more places for mobile customers, it also significantly increases our 5G fixed wireless footprint.”

    “Two in three Australians are now covered by our 5G where they work and live, and with the first major device due to be upgraded to work with standalone 5G in just a few weeks, the new coverage is ready.”

    Mr Berroeta said the 5G standalone core was a multi-year project as part of the company’s 5G network roadmap.

    “This puts us firmly on the 5G map, and the project completion is a testament to our network team who skillfully navigated challenges including lockdowns and the 5G vendor restrictions,” he said.

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  • Tiki raises $258 mln from global investors

    Tiki raises $258 mln from global investors

    E-commerce company Tiki raised $258 million in its latest funding round as it eyes a U.S. IPO.

    The Series E funding round was led by AIA Insurance, and included UBS AG London Branch, Mirae Asset-Naver Asia Growth Fund, and Taiwan Mobile Co.

    Tiki had planned to list in the U.S. by 2025, but it now plans to do so in a year’s time, Tiki founder and Chief Executive Officer Tran Ngoc Thai Son said in an interview.

    The company expects revenue growth of 40-50 percent in the next few years, he added.

    Vietnam is expected to have 53 million online consumers, or 71 percent of its population aged 15 and older, by the end of this year, an 8 percent rise from 2020, according to a report in August by Facebook and Bain & Co.

    Tiki in June raised VND1 trillion dong ($44 million) from bonds issuance.

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  • China Telecom’s license revoked in the US

    China Telecom’s license revoked in the US

    The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has voted to revoke the authorization for China Telecom’s subsidiary in the US.

    Citing national security concerns, officials ordered China Telecom Americas to discontinue its services in the US within 60 days. The subsidiary has been operating in the US for nearly two decades.

    In a statement released, the FCC said, “China Telecom Americas, a U.S. subsidiary of a Chinese state-owned enterprise, is subject to exploitation, influence, and control by the Chinese government and is highly likely to be forced to comply with Chinese government requests without sufficient legal procedures subject to independent judicial oversight.”

    China Telecom has expressed disappointment over the decision and intends to “pursue available options” in hopes of continuing serving its customers.

    During the first nine months of this year, China Telecom added 69 million 5G subscribers in China, bringing it total mobile base in China is 369 million subscribers.