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China’s 5G-Boosted M2M & IoT Market Set for 7% CAGR Surge by 2030: The Future of Mobile Connectivity

The cellular machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity market in China is projected to experience considerable expansion over the next decade. Projected growth rates estimate an increase in subscriptions at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2030. The driving factors behind this growth include the emergence of new applications across diverse industries, the development of 5G infrastructure by telecommunications firms, and their comprehensive M2M/IoT service offerings.

Increasing Adoption of M2M/IoT Technology

The China Mobile Broadband Forecast for the third quarter of 2025 suggests that M2M/IoT subscriptions will constitute approximately 30% of all mobile subscriptions in the nation by 2030. This statistic underscores the escalating adoption of this technology and its growing significance as a revenue stream for telecom firms.

China’s vast manufacturing base and pervasive digitalization in the sector support the growth of the M2M/IoT market. The advent of digital factories, which require extensive automation and connectivity for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance, will bolster this growth.

Expanded Use Cases

Telecom Analyst Hrushikesh Mahananda points out that the expansion of use cases beyond the manufacturing sector will also benefit the market. Applications in the utilities sector, such as smart grids and smart metering, along with vehicle-to-vehicle and vehicle-to-infrastructure applications in the automotive and transportation sector, are notable examples. Additionally, connected devices and patient monitoring in healthcare and smart city initiatives involving smart buildings, traffic control, and public safety systems show promising potential.

Government backing for the integration of M2M/IoT technology into manufacturing, smart cities, and public infrastructure projects aligns with national strategies like Made in China 2025 and China 2035. This alignment highlights the technology’s increasing relevance in the country.

5G Infrastructure and M2M/IoT Expansion

The creation of a robust 5G infrastructure and advancements in 5G-Advanced technology, which support large-scale IoT deployments, will further boost the M2M/IoT sector in China. For instance, the Chinese telecom regulator MIIT plans to establish over 10,000 5G factories during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) to enhance industrial applications of 5G, primarily in manufacturing.

Mahananda concludes that the growing prominence of M2M/IoT has led China’s leading mobile operators to design comprehensive service offerings that are fueling growth in M2M/IoT connectivity subscriptions. These operators have also developed advanced M2M/IoT platforms that streamline deployment, integration, and management of M2M/IoT ecosystems across industries, further enhancing connectivity, device management, edge, and AI capabilities.

Questions & Answers

What factors are driving the growth of M2M/IoT connectivity in China?
The growth is driven by new use cases across various sectors, advancements in 5G infrastructure by telecom companies, and their comprehensive M2M/IoT service offerings.

What percentage of mobile subscriptions in China will M2M/IoT subscriptions make up by 2030?
According to the China Mobile Broadband Forecast (Q3-2025), M2M/IoT subscriptions will account for approximately 30% of all mobile subscriptions by 2030.

What role does the Chinese government play in the growth of M2M/IoT connectivity?
The government supports the integration of M2M/IoT technology into the manufacturing sector, smart cities, and public infrastructure projects, which aligns with national initiatives like Made in China 2025 and China 2035.

November 26, 2025
Thailand Ignites Digital Economy: Unveils $3.1B Investment in Data Center Boom & Cloud Revolution

Thailand is propelling its efforts to establish itself as a premier hub for digital infrastructure in Southeast Asia. This move follows the Board of Investment (BOI) granting approval for four new data center projects valued at THB 100 billion (USD 3.1 billion). The country is gearing up to more fiercely compete with Singapore and Malaysia, as the demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services is growing across the region.

Details on New Projects

The BOI has confirmed that two of the approved projects are hyperscale facilities designed to support AI workloads. NextGen Data Center and Cloud Services, a subsidiary of DAMAC Digital based in Dubai, plans to construct an 84-MW hyperscale data center in the Navanakorn Industrial Estate in Pathum Thani Province. This project is expected to require an investment of THB 26.7 billion (USD 826.42 million).

Meanwhile, Zenith Data Center and Cloud Services, a local firm, will dedicate THB 54.9 billion (USD 1.7 billion) towards developing a 200-MW hyperscale facility in the same location.

Telehouse (Thailand), which is a division of Japan’s KDDI Corporation, has set plans in motion to build a 12-MW data center adjacent to its existing facility in the Huai Khwang District of Bangkok. This expansion will be funded by an investment of THB 7.55 billion (USD 233.64 million).

Lastly, Vistas Technology, a subsidiary of ZDATA Technologies based in China, will invest THB 9.9 billion (USD 306.39 million) to construct an 80-MW facility in the Amata City Chonburi Industrial Estate. This will mark the company’s second project to receive approval from the BOI.

Thailand’s Digital Infrastructure Strategy

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, the Chairman of the BOI, indicated that the approval of these projects underscores Thailand’s strategy to draw hyperscale operators and augment its world-class digital infrastructure. He stated, “The kingdom is actively positioning itself as a key Southeast Asian hub for hyperscale data centers. These approvals demonstrate our commitment to facilitating world-class digital infrastructure investment.”

In addition to these approvals, the BOI has also issued six licenses to recommence data center projects that had previously stalled, which are collectively valued at USD 9.2 billion. The agency’s goal is to resolve delays associated with power availability, access to industrial land, and the processing of visas or work permits. Therdsteerasukdi affirmed that this action would bolster investor confidence and promote job creation and economic growth.

Context and Outlook

Thailand has been observing a surge in data center investment since 2024, with companies such as AWS, Google, Microsoft, and ByteDance announcing substantial commitments. During the first half of 2025 alone, the sector attracted a total of THB 521.2 billion (USD 16.13 billion) in approved investments spanning 28 different projects.

Officials project that this latest development will significantly increase Thailand’s data center capacity. It is expected to sustain the rising domestic and regional demand for AI and cloud services, and strengthen the nation’s stand in Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding digital economy.

Questions & Answers

What is the total value of the four new data center projects in Thailand?
The total value of the four new data center projects in Thailand is THB 100 billion (USD 3.1 billion).

Who are some of the major companies investing in data centers in Thailand?
Some of the major companies investing in data centers in Thailand include NextGen Data Center and Cloud Services, Zenith Data Center and Cloud Services, Telehouse (Thailand), and Vistas Technology.

What impact will these projects have on Thailand’s position in the digital economy of Southeast Asia?
These projects will bolster Thailand’s position in the digital economy of Southeast Asia by increasing the country’s data center capacity and meeting the growing regional demand for cloud and AI services.

November 20, 2025
Turbocharging Malaysia’s Connectivity: The MVNO Market Boom and its Potential in 2030

The mobile connectivity market in Malaysia is at full capacity. By the beginning of 2025, there were approximately 43.3 million mobile connections, representing about 121% of the country’s population. Amid this scenario, mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) serve as significant value creators, unlocking new market segments, introducing differentiated offerings, and ultimately enhancing mobile connectivity throughout Malaysia.

The Prospect of MVNOs in Malaysia

According to recent industry reports, the size of the Malaysian MVNO market was approximately $0.8 billion in 2025, and it is projected to reach $1.06 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.75% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The continual transition towards a dual-wholesale 5G model has eliminated the unclear pricing that previously hindered the growth of virtual operators, providing a new impetus for the MVNO market in Malaysia. Operators are now resorting to cloud-native operational support systems/business support systems, eSIM-only distribution, and satellite-terrestrial convergence to venture into new markets and reduce operational costs.

Increased digitization in the enterprise sector is consequently enlarging the average revenue per user in the business-to-business (B2B) market. Simultaneously, ultra-low-cost prepaid plans have boosted subscriptions on the consumer side. Government initiatives like JENDELA are keeping infrastructure expansion on track, reaffirming the possibility for the Malaysian MVNO market to sustain moderate compound growth throughout the decade.

Regarding deployment models, cloud accounted for 70.51% of the revenue in 2024, with a forecasted CAGR of 10.14% through 2030. As for operations, reseller and light MVNO formats held a 62.33% share in 2024, but full MVNO structures are predicted to grow at a CAGR of 19.19% through 2030.

Successful Model for Malaysia

An MVNO offers mobile services to customers by leasing the network capacity from an existing mobile network operator (MNO), thereby eliminating the need for owning infrastructure. This approach presents several advantages in Malaysia:

– MVNOs facilitate market entry for new service providers, encouraging existing MNOs to innovate their strategies, satisfy niche market needs, foster competition, and provide consumers with more choices.
– As 4G improves and 5G is introduced, MNOs with extra network capacity can collaborate with MVNOs to utilize this surplus, thus helping them recover some of the costs associated with building and maintaining their networks.

This year, MVNOs have gained considerable traction in Malaysia. In particular, CMLink, an MVNO by China Mobile International Limited (CMI), was launched on the Maxis network in Malaysia, allowing CMI to offer services like “one card, multiple numbers” and data sharing between China and Malaysia. This demonstrates how MVNOs can cater to cross-border and traveler markets.

Impact on Connectivity and Market Dynamics

The growth of MVNOs in Malaysia impacts the broader connectivity ecosystem in several ways. By allowing new and specialized brands to enter the market, MVNOs can cater to groups that are often overlooked, whether due to location, age, or service needs. More competition in the market gives consumers more options and compels MNOs to offer better prices, unique packages, and improved customer service.

For MNOs, collaborating with MVNOs enhances returns on their network investments. For example, U Mobile’s 5G network already covers 54.9% of populated areas, with higher coverage in urban areas. This ensures optimal utilization of the network’s capacity and supports investments in further coverage and new services.

Looking Ahead: Key Points to Consider

For MVNOs to realize their full potential in Malaysia, the industry needs to concentrate on a few crucial areas:

– Wider Wholesale Access and Fair Pricing: MNOs need to continue expanding open and transparent wholesale access to enable more MVNOs to thrive in Malaysia.
– Consistent Network Experience: Regulators and the industry must ensure that MVNO customers receive the same service quality as MNO customers, especially during peak times.
– Sustainable Differentiation: MVNOs offering more than just basic plans, like value-added, niche or cross-border services, are more likely to succeed.
– Targeting Underserved Regions: MVNOs can help bridge the connectivity gap, particularly in rural Malaysia, using a shared infrastructure model.
– Regulatory Support: The government and regulatory bodies can aid MVNOs’ growth by simplifying licensing and endorsing consumer-friendly policies.

In conclusion, by leveraging the established infrastructure of major network operators, Malaysian MVNOs are expanding connectivity to underserved demographics, reducing costs, and sparking innovation in niche segments. This diversification enhances competition and consumer choice, aligning with the national connectivity goals outlined in the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MyDIGITAL), which targets near-universal connectivity by 2030.

Questions & Answers

– What is the projected growth rate of the Malaysian MVNO market?
The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.75% from 2025 to 2030.

– What impact do MVNOs have on the mobile connectivity market in Malaysia?
MVNOs facilitate market entry for new service providers, stimulate competition, provide consumers with more choices, and help MNOs recover some of the costs of building and maintaining their networks.

– What are some key areas the industry needs to focus on for MVNOs to realize their full potential in Malaysia?
Key focus areas include wider wholesale access and fair pricing, ensuring consistent network experience for MVNO customers, enabling sustainable differentiation in MVNO offerings, supporting MVNOs in targeting underserved regions, and offering regulatory support.

November 20, 2025
Optus Faces Hefty $826K Fine Over Coles Mobile Scam Breach: A Deep Dive into Australia’s Telco Scandal

Optus Mobile, a renowned telecommunications firm, has been hit with another hefty fine of $826,320 for breaching anti-scam regulations. This recent violation pertains to its business operations under the Coles Mobile brand.

Investigation and Breaches

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) served the penalty after a thorough investigation into the infractions committed by Optus. The probe revealed that the company had infringed anti-scam provisions on 44 separate instances during September and October of the previous year. These infractions were carried out through Coles Mobile, a collaborative venture enabling consumers to register for a mobile contract via the Coles supermarket chain.

Investigators unveiled that scammers had managed to exploit a security loophole in a third-party identity verification system employed by Optus. This loophole permitted the fraudsters to sidestep certain parts of the obligatory verification procedure. As a result, these unscrupulous individuals managed to seize control of a minimum of four client mobile services and infiltrate their bank accounts. The reported losses from these scam activities totalled $39,000.

Implications and Responses

Samantha Yorke, a member of the ACMA, conveyed the severity of such fraudulent activities. She highlighted the resultant monetary losses and lingering trauma emanating from the task of reclaiming digital identities. Yorke stated that although this was a solitary issue that was promptly addressed, the lack of a sturdy customer ID verification system is unacceptable. This holds particularly true for a prominent provider in the industry such as Optus, which is currently Australia’s second largest.

Yorke also pointed out that the imposed fine is the maximum monetary penalty that the ACMA has the jurisdiction to enforce in this case. The severity of the fine reflects the seriousness of the breaches committed by Optus.

The recent penalty adds to the already considerable financial repercussions that Optus has faced this year due to regulatory contraventions. Earlier in September, the firm was directed by the Federal Court to pay a staggering $100 million for engaging in unfair sales practices. These unethical practices affected over 400 customers and were carried out at 16 Optus outlets between August 2019 and July 2023.

Questions & Answers

What led to the recent $826,320 fine imposed on Optus Mobile?
Optus Mobile was fined for breaching anti-scam regulations, specifically in relation to its business operations under the Coles Mobile brand.

How were scammers able to exploit Optus’s systems?
Scammers exploited a security loophole in a third-party identity verification system used by Optus, which allowed them to bypass parts of the obligatory verification process and gain control of several consumer mobile services.

What were the consequences of the scam activities?
The fraudulent activities resulted in reported losses of $39,000 and caused distress to consumers who had to recover their digital identities.

November 19, 2025
Revolutionizing Connectivity: Globe and Nokia Launch 5G mmWave for Enhanced Broadband Performance in the Philippines

Globe has announced the successful completion of 5G mmWave trials using Nokia’s Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology alongside Wi-Fi 7 equipment. The trials achieved peak download speeds of up to 4.3 Gbps. According to the operator, this level of performance can bolster mission-critical services, optimize enterprise operations, and improve broadband connectivity for end-users.

5G FWA Subscriptions Projected to Double by 2030

Gerhard Tan, Senior Director and Head of Technology Strategy and Innovation at Globe, shared his perspective on the development. He emphasized the company’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to pushing connectivity boundaries. The successful implementation of the 5G mmWave and Wi-Fi 7 with the Philippine Marines demonstrates how advanced connectivity can revolutionize mission-critical operations. Moreover, this technology paves the way for a truly digital and interconnected Philippines.

Field tests in Zamboanga City yielded consistent outcomes even in complex settings. The trial conducted at the Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 headquarters in Naval Station Rio Hondo clocked 4.3 Gbps at a distance of 2.1 kilometers. Another test site, approximately 9 kilometers away, registered speeds nearing 1 Gbps.

The Philippine Marines are the inaugural users of the system, utilizing Globe’s 5G mmWave platform to fortify communications for national security and public service.

Lt. Col. Nepthalie Papa, Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team-1 of the Philippine Marines, expressed gratitude to Globe for their continued support in providing reliable communication solutions. Through Globe’s commitment to innovation, connectivity has been bolstered even in the most challenging environments.

The Philippines’ Broadband Transformation: The Impact of Fiber and 5G FWA

Globe has confirmed that 5G mmWave sites are now operational in Zamboanga City, Quezon City, and the Rizal province. The company plans to extend the deployment in response to increasing device compatibility.

According to Globe, the expansion will support applications such as high-speed broadband in urban and rural areas, private 5G networks, industrial automation, and secure enterprise communications.

Questions & Answers

What was the result of Globe’s 5G mmWave trials using Nokia’s Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology?
The trials achieved peak download speeds of up to 4.3 Gbps. Such performance can bolster mission-critical services, optimize enterprise operations, and improve broadband connectivity for end-users.

Who are the inaugural users of the 5G mmWave platform?
The Philippine Marines are the inaugural users of the system, utilizing Globe’s 5G mmWave platform to fortify communications for national security and public service.

What applications will the expansion of the 5G mmWave sites support?
The expansion will support applications such as high-speed broadband in urban and rural areas, private 5G networks, industrial automation, and secure enterprise communications.

November 18, 2025
Singtel Celebrates 14% Profit Leap: A Triumph of Regional Growth and Strategic Investments

The Singtel Group has reported a 14% increase in underlying net profit, reaching SGD 1.35 billion in the first half of the year. This growth has been mainly driven by regional associates Airtel and AIS, as well as operating companies NCS and Optus.

Profit Increase Despite Economic Challenges

Neglecting the impact of foreign currency fluctuations and contributions from Intouch, which concluded after its merger with Gulf, the underlying net profit would have increased by 22%. The net profit rose to SGD 3.40 billion, largely as a result of a net exceptional gain of SGD 2.05 billion from the partial sale of a stake in Airtel in May and the Intouch-Gulf merger.

Operating revenue declined by 1.2% to SGD 6.91 billion, which was affected by the strong Singapore dollar. However, in constant currency terms, the Group’s operating revenue, EBITDA, and operating company EBIT would have increased by 1.9%, 4.9%, and 14%, respectively.

CEO Insights

Yuen Kuan Moon, Singtel Group CEO, stated that the group’s H1 results reflect the positive momentum across their diversified portfolio of businesses across the region. They have continued to drive growth in connectivity, digital services, and digital infrastructure and also unlocked value from their asset recycling efforts as they executed their Singtel28 plan.

Despite the challenging macroeconomic outlook, and uncertainty surrounding the Optus business, Yuen believes their business and geographical diversity is providing stability to the Group’s performance. He expects their growth engines to change the business’s complexion in the mid term as they continue to scale.

Plan Execution and Active Capital Management

Since launching the Singtel28 plan, the Group’s active capital management has generated SGD 5.6 billion in proceeds, including SGD 1.5 billion from the recent divestment of a 0.8% stake in Airtel. The Group has achieved more than half of its new SGD 9 billion mid-term asset recycling target, which will be used to fund growth opportunities and provide returns to shareholders.

The Group’s balance sheet remains strong, with a cash balance of SGD 3.4 billion as of September 2025, helping reduce net debt to SGD 8.7 billion and improve gearing ratios.

Regional Associates’ Contributions

The profit contributions from regional associates post-tax increased by 12% to SGD 0.92 billion. Excluding Intouch and considering constant currency terms, these contributions would have risen by 25%.

Airtel Group saw solid earnings growth in both India and Africa due to effective execution and higher mobile tariffs, while AIS reported stronger profits due to revenue growth and effective cost management. However, Telkomsel’s performance was impacted by weaker mobile performance, a capital gain from the sale and leaseback of indoor infrastructure in the previous period, and higher interest expenses. Globe’s earnings also declined due to weak consumer spending.

Questions & Answers

What is the overall financial status of Singtel Group?
Singtel Group has reported a 14% increase in underlying net profit, reaching SGD 1.35 billion in the first half of the year.

What were the main contributors to Singtel Group’s growth?
The growth was mainly driven by regional associates Airtel and AIS, as well as operating companies NCS and Optus.

What does the Group’s CEO, Yuen Kuan Moon, attribute the positive results to?
Yuen attributes the positive results to the group’s diversified portfolio of businesses across the region and active capital management as part of the Singtel28 plan. The plan has generated SGD 5.6 billion in proceeds, contributing to the reduction of net debt and improvement of gearing ratios.

November 15, 2025
China Mobile Boosts Global Connectivity with Pioneering 2Africa and SEA-H2X Submarine Cable Initiatives

In the first half of November 2025, China Mobile achieved substantial growth in its underwater cable investments, strengthening its influence in promoting worldwide digital connectivity.

China Mobile Activates 2Africa Submarine Cable

In Nairobi, Kenya, China Mobile spearheaded a significant event to mark the activation of the 2Africa submarine cable’s eastern sections, connecting South Africa, Kenya, Djibouti, Marseille, and Egypt. The event aimed to showcase next-generation infrastructure and intelligent connectivity platforms, designed to speed up digital transformation for African service providers and businesses.

Guo Haiyan, the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Kenya, emphasized that digital cooperation is becoming a crucial component of collaboration between China and Africa. The activation of the 2Africa submarine cable’s eastern section and the introduction of China Mobile’s AI+ Cloud-Network Convergence Industry Solutions are a testament to the robustness of China-Africa digital collaboration.

Furthermore, she noted that Kenya is a crucial ally for China in pursuing digital transformation and pledged to continue sharing expertise to bolster Africa’s digital economy. Guo expressed hope that both nations would intensify collaboration to create an open and inclusive digital governance ecosystem that encourages mutual growth and prosperity.

Simultaneously, Hon. William Kabogo Gitau, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, hailed the 2Africa project as a significant achievement in China-Africa collaboration. He believed the activation of the eastern section would greatly improve East Africa’s international communications capacity and strengthen digital connections between China and Africa.

Li Huidi, Executive Vice President of China Mobile, stressed that AI and 5G technologies are powering Africa’s economic transformation and expressed readiness to cooperate closely with Kenya and other African countries to establish an intelligent foundation by integrating 2Africa cable resources and enhancing AI computing capabilities.

SEA-H2X Cable Reaches Hong Kong

In another notable achievement, China Mobile successfully completed the landing of the Hong Kong segment of the Southeast Asia-Hainan-Hong Kong (SEA-H2X) international submarine cable, marking an important milestone in the construction of the high-capacity network system.

As the principal initiator and primary investor of the SEA-H2X project, China Mobile oversaw the Hong Kong landing, ensuring its smooth and timely execution.

China Mobile’s investment in the SEA-H2X project strengthens its core capabilities in digital communication in the Asia-Pacific region and improves its overall competitiveness in global telecommunications. This venture laid a robust network foundation for the long-term growth of the regional digital economy and injected sustained impetus into worldwide digital interconnectivity.

Questions & Answers

What is the significance of the 2Africa submarine cable’s activation?
The activation of the 2Africa submarine cable’s eastern sections presents a crucial step in enhancing digital collaboration between China and Africa. It will significantly improve East Africa’s international communications capacity and strengthen digital connections between the two regions.

What is the SEA-H2X international submarine cable?
The SEA-H2X is a high-capacity network system connecting several strategic locations across Asia. China Mobile successfully completed the landing of the Hong Kong segment of the SEA-H2X cable, marking a key milestone in its construction.

How does China Mobile’s investment in SEA-H2X impact the company and the region?
China Mobile’s investment in the SEA-H2X project solidifies its core strengths in digital communication in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing its competitiveness in global telecommunications. It provides a robust network foundation for the growth of the regional digital economy and boosts worldwide digital interconnectivity.

November 15, 2025
5G Power Play: How China, South Korea, and Singapore Race to Champion Smart, Ultra-Fast Networks

Asia’s broadband and mobile landscapes are quickly transforming, spurred on by economic goals, digital sovereignty, and leadership in industries powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Significant investments are being poured into denser radio networks, more rapid fixed connections, and smart AI automation, particularly in China, South Korea, and Singapore. But what advantages do these leaders hope to reap from such extensive efforts?

The Economic Imperative

In the Asia-Pacific region, mobile technologies have already become a major economic cornerstone. The sector was responsible for approximately $950 billion and 5.6% of the regional GDP in 2024, and these numbers are expected to rise with the expansion of 5G.

Rapid strides are being made in China to roll out both 5G and 5G-Advanced (5G-A) networks. The country now hosts over 4.486 million 5G cell sites, accounting for 35.3% of all mobile base stations, as of May 2025. In just the first five months of that year, 235,000 new 5G base stations were installed, highlighting the government’s ongoing dedication to expanding connectivity. Furthermore, China’s move toward 5G-A signifies a shift from basic connectivity to intelligent networking.

South Korea’s 5G rollout is similarly comprehensive and widespread. By the third quarter of 2024, the country had approximately 36.1 million 5G connections, and operators had achieved nationwide 5G coverage that same year. Additionally, South Korea ranks highest in terms of 5G infrastructure density.

Singapore, too, is making substantial strides in the 5G domain. By early 2024, key operators such as StarHub reported over 99% outdoor 5G coverage. The city-state has also dedicated SGD 25 billion (~USD 18 billion) in R&D funding to back enterprise testbeds for 5G in sectors like smart estates, Industry 4.0, and urban mobility.

The Consumer Imperative

Both consumers and businesses in Asia are pressing for lower latency, higher capacity, and full coverage. Emerging technologies such as cloud gaming, immersive video, and factory automation depend on low-latency, robust connections and are transitioning to actual deployment.

In the race for speed, South Korea and Singapore often rank among the fastest worldwide. High speeds are essential to support business workloads, AR/VR services, and AI tasks.

In China, where average 5G download speeds exceed 400 Mbps, operators like China Mobile and China Unicom report an increase in customer satisfaction and a reduction in churn rates as users upgrade to premium 5G plans.

Networks are not only becoming faster but also more adaptive. Vendors and carriers are incorporating AI into the radio access network, core, and operations stacks, supporting functions like energy optimization, traffic prediction, and self-healing.

The Geopolitical Imperative

Networks play a critical role as key geopolitical assets. As such, governments are diversifying their suppliers and promoting investments in backup cables, localized cloud and edge computing, and corporate cloud services. Security and economic objectives further propel the demand for faster, more reliable networks.

The advent of software as the primary differentiator in a market where hardware has become largely standardized, along with subsidies and targeted policies, is accelerating deployment. The large-scale rollouts in China underscore how favorable policy can rapidly reduce costs and expand coverage.

A Pragmatic Race with High Stakes

Rapid progress, however, comes with its own set of challenges. Densely packed networks are expensive, and some countries still grapple with spectrum and backhaul limitations. AI networks are complex to manage, and privacy, localization, and cybersecurity rules introduce additional regulatory hurdles.

Yet, the pursuit by China, South Korea, and Singapore of the fastest, smartest networks revolves around maintaining economic competitiveness, enabling AI and cloud services, achieving digital resilience and independence, and unlocking future business verticals.

Network investment has now become a central pillar for economic growth and national strategy. AI and smart infrastructure drive continuous upgrades; resilience and digital sovereignty guide policy-making; and vendor competition hastens rollout. The real victors in this race won’t simply have the highest speeds, but the ability to balance speed, intelligence, regulatory clarity, and expenditure effectively.

By pushing forward with 5G and 5.5G leadership, China, South Korea, and Singapore are poised to benefit economically through new digital industries and productivity growth, satisfy consumer demands for faster, smarter connectivity, and solidify their geopolitical influence as global frontrunners in next-generation technology.

Questions & Answers

What is driving the rapid evolution of Asia’s broadband and mobile landscape?
Economic ambitions, digital sovereignty, and leadership in AI-powered industries are the key drivers behind the swift transformation of Asia’s broadband and mobile landscape.

How is 5G contributing to the economies of China, South Korea, and Singapore?
5G is expected to boost the economies of these countries through the creation of new digital industries, productivity growth, and by meeting consumer and business demands for faster, smarter connectivity.

What challenges are being faced in the deployment of 5G and AI networks?
The key challenges include the high costs of dense network deployments, limitations related to spectrum and backhaul, complexity of managing AI networks, and regulatory hurdles related to privacy, localization, and cybersecurity.

November 13, 2025
Singtel Unlocks SGD 1.5B in Airtel Stake Sale: A Strategic Move Towards Portfolio Optimization

Singapore Telecommunications Limited (Singtel) has divested approximately 0.8% of their direct investment in their regional associate, Airtel. The sale generated SGD 1.5 billion, marking an important step in Singtel’s ongoing plan to streamline operations via asset recycling. The transaction was conducted through a private placement to institutional investors, a move that demonstrates significant market demand and confidence in Airtel. It is anticipated that the sale will yield profits of around SGD 1.1 billion.

Singtel’s Strategy and Outcome

The Group Chief Financial Officer of Singtel, Mr. Arthur Lang, shed some light on the company’s strategy. He explained that Singtel has been collaborating closely with Bharti Enterprises to gradually balance their effective stake in Airtel. He further affirmed that the transactions have allowed them to unlock value while retaining a significant stake in Airtel. This approach enables them to continue to invest in India’s rapidly growing digital economy.

Mr. Lang spoke of the success of the capital management program, which he said has already amassed SGD 5.6 billion. This is over half of their recently adjusted mid-term asset recycling target of SGD 9 billion. He explained that this financial strategy affords Singtel the flexibility to bolster its balance sheet, fund growth opportunities in digital infrastructure and services, and ensure sustainable dividend growth.

Progress and Future Plans

As of May 2025, Singtel had already exceeded half of its original SGD 6 billion mid-term asset recycling target, which had been declared a year prior. Following this achievement, the target was revised to SGD 9 billion. The raised capital will be directed towards supporting growth and providing capital returns via its value realization dividend and share buyback program.

In the wake of this recent transaction, Singtel is set to retain a 27.5% stake in Airtel. The retained stake is estimated to be worth approximately SGD 51 billion.

Questions & Answers

What is Singtel’s ongoing strategy?
Singtel is optimizing its portfolio through asset recycling, which includes selling some of its stakes in associates and investing the proceeds in new growth opportunities.

What is expected to be the outcome of Singtel’s recent divestment from Airtel?
The sale is expected to yield profits of around SGD 1.1 billion, contributing to their mid-term asset recycling target of SGD 9 billion.

What is the future of Singtel’s investment in Airtel?
Following the recent transaction, Singtel will retain a significant 27.5% stake in Airtel, demonstrating its continued commitment to invest in India’s digital economy.

November 11, 2025
Nokia and SoftBank Seal Innovative Deal to Propel 5G Standalone Coverage Across Japan

Nokia has recently declared the broadening of its existing collaboration with SoftBank Corp., showcasing a fresh agreement to supply sophisticated 4G and 5G radio access equipment across Japan. The agreement encompasses an enhancement of current network infrastructure and an extension of 5G standalone coverage through the utilization of Nokia’s cutting-edge AirScale portfolio. The roll-out will take place predominantly in Western Japan.

Deploying Energy-Efficient Solutions

As part of this contractual agreement, Nokia is set to incorporate its power-efficient AirScale Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions. This includes the incorporation of the latest Habrok Massive MIMO radios and AirScale baseband equipment. Nokia’s ReefShark System-on-Chip technology powers these solutions, promising stellar performance, expansive coverage, and ample capacity, all while ensuring superior energy efficiency. Additionally, Nokia’s AI-empowered MantaRay solution will be featured to boost network management and Self-Organizing Network capabilities.

The Head of Radio Access Networks at Nokia, Mark Atkinson, expressed his enthusiasm for the extended partnership, stating that their solutions integrate AI capabilities, delivering unparalleled performance with industry-leading energy efficiency. He further mentioned that these developments support the progression towards Advanced-5G networks.

Joint Ventures and Future Prospects

Nokia and SoftBank, both founding members of the AI-RAN Alliance, are jointly embarking on research and development projects focusing on AI-RAN and 6G technologies. This collaboration encompasses joint research, field trials, and the establishment of a virtualized RAN platform. The companies are conducting tests in the 7 GHz frequency band for 6G in Tokyo, employing Massive MIMO technology.

The Executive Vice President and CTO of SoftBank Corp, Hideyuki Tsukuda, reflected on the enhanced partnership with Nokia, stating that it will facilitate the development of a unique, high-quality 5G network powered by AI. He emphasized that the upgraded network will boost efficiency, reduce emissions, and provide a superior user experience for their customers.

Questions & Answers

What is the main aim of Nokia’s collaboration with SoftBank Corp?
The collaboration aims to supply advanced 4G and 5G radio access equipment across Japan, enhancing the current network infrastructure and extending 5G standalone coverage.

What key solutions will Nokia implement as a part of this partnership?
Nokia will integrate its power-efficient AirScale Radio Access Network solutions, which include Habrok Massive MIMO radios and AirScale baseband equipment, powered by Nokia’s ReefShark System-on-Chip technology.

What future ventures are Nokia and SoftBank planning?
As part of the AI-RAN Alliance, both Nokia and SoftBank are embarking on joint research and development projects focusing on AI-RAN and 6G technologies, including field trials and the creation of a virtualized RAN platform.

November 7, 2025
Undersea Superhighways: The Future of Digital Connectivity in Asia

The majority of today’s internet traffic is transmitted via undersea fiber-optic cables, rather than through satellites or overland networks. The National Bureau of Asian Research reports that over 97% of transoceanic telecommunications—including financial, voice, and internet data—are facilitated by these underwater cable systems. This is especially true in Asia, where many countries are separated by bodies of water, making these cables crucial for digital connectivity.

The Evolution of Submarine Cables

Undersea cables have come a long way from their origins as colonial-era telegraph lines. They have developed into high-capacity systems capable of transmitting terabits of data per second. Modern technologies, such as optical amplification and dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), allow these cables to stretch thousands of kilometers across oceans.

Asia’s Digital “Bridges”

These undersea cables, often referred to as digital “bridges,” are now jointly funded and operated by consortia of telecom firms, governments, and major tech companies. In managing these cables, these entities must balance commercial interests, abide by various regulations, and mitigate geopolitical risks.

Asia’s most significant subsea cables include the Asia-Africa-Europe 1 (AAE-1), Asia-America Gateway (AAG), Asia Pacific Gateway (APG), Asia Submarine-Cable Express (ASE), South-East Asia-Japan Cable 2 (SJC2), SEA-ME-WE 6, and the PEACE Cable. These cables link various Asian countries with each other and the rest of the world, providing high-capacity connectivity across continents.

The Importance of Undersea Cables in Asia

Undersea cables are particularly crucial in Asia. Island nations, such as the Philippines and Indonesia, depend on these cables to connect to continental networks. Conversely, landlocked or peninsular states like Laos and Myanmar rely on terrestrial links that connect to undersea systems.

The expansion of undersea cable capacity and routes promotes digital inclusion, reduces latency, and improves connectivity for remote and rural communities. Research indicates that doubling the capacity of these cables can decrease internet prices in a country by 30-50%, enabling wider online access.

Fostering Connectivity and Cultural Exchange

Submarine cables serve as the backbone of Asia’s digital regionalism. They facilitate the exchange of culture and knowledge across borders, enabling various professionals and creators to connect, learn, and collaborate with ease.

Moreover, these undersea cables highlight Asia’s growing digital interdependence. No country can thrive alone; data, trade, and communication freely cross borders, uniting societies. Much like physical bridges, submarine cables connect Asia beneath the ocean, enabling the free flow of ideas and opportunities.

Challenges and Considerations

While undersea cables significantly enhance connectivity, they also come with their own set of challenges. If landing stations are monopolized or interconnection is gated, it may lead to the exclusion of certain actors such as small businesses or rural communities. Additionally, like physical bridges, submarine cables are vulnerable to sabotage, which could lead to significant disruptions in connectivity. Therefore, it is crucial to establish protective measures and governance to manage these risks.

Questions & Answers

What is the role of submarine cables in digital connectivity?
Submarine cables facilitate the majority of transoceanic telecommunications, including financial transactions, voice calls, and internet data. They play a crucial role in connecting different countries and enabling the exchange of information across continents.

How do submarine cables impact internet accessibility and costs?
Expanding undersea cable capacity can significantly reduce internet prices in a country, thereby enabling wider online access. However, monopolization can undermine these benefits.

What are the potential risks associated with submarine cables?
Potential risks include monopolization of landing stations, sabotage of cables, and the possibility of cables being used as political tools in disputed sea regions. Therefore, protective measures and governance are vital to manage these risks.

November 3, 2025
Japan’s Telecom Titans: Pioneering Global Connectivity with Next-Gen Technologies

As the international telecommunications sector experiences significant changes, companies from Japan are harnessing the power of emerging technologies, their established brands, and strategic partnerships to establish a foothold in the Asia Pacific and various emerging global markets. The Japanese approach is a blend of innovative thinking, collaboration, and long-term strategic planning, all aimed at enhancing regional connectivity.

Japan’s Telecom Landscape

In Japan, over 150% of the population owns a mobile phone. However, as the population ages and decreases in size, telecom operators are finding fewer opportunities to attract new subscribers within the country. As a result, they are looking beyond the Asia Pacific for growth opportunities. In terms of global positioning, Japan’s leading telecom companies hold strong. The NTT Group is ranked fifth worldwide with a brand value of $37.1 billion USD, SoftBank sits at 11th with $13.9 billion USD, and au by KDDI is 14th with $10.9 billion USD. These rankings illustrate the robustness of Japan’s telecom sector and highlight the need for these companies to penetrate new markets to maintain their growth. While domestic innovation will persist, international projects, consultations, and partnerships will drive Japan’s global initiatives.

Leading the Charge in 6G and Intelligent Network Development

Japan is at the forefront of the development of next-generation wireless technology, making it a primary focus for exports. Leading companies such as NTT DOCOMO, SoftBank, and KDDI are spearheading the profitable development of 6G technology. In December 2024, NTT DOCOMO announced a new 6G initiative following approval from the 3GPP Madrid meeting. Supported by 56 global companies, the project aims to standardize 6G technology, align with UN objectives, and accelerate AI-powered connectivity.

In July 2025, SoftBank and Nokia conducted Japan’s first 7 GHz 6G outdoor trial, testing centimeter-wave frequencies in Tokyo. The project aims to compare 6G and 5G urban coverage, thereby providing key insights before the ITU-R WRC-27 discussions. Additionally, KDDI Research and Samsung signed a MoU to further AI-driven innovations for 6G. The partnership’s goal is to enhance D-MIMO systems, boost speeds, and broaden coverage using AI. The companies share a vision of a user-centric, AI-integrated 6G network.

Technology as a Tool for Regional Leadership

In 2024, Japan demonstrated its leadership in advanced communications with a significant Beyond 5G/6G research project, spearheaded by top firms and selected by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT). This project aims to create seamless user connections across cloud data centers, improve fault tolerance, and advance all-photonics networks in rural areas, thereby bolstering Japan’s global standing in next-gen ICT.

In the same vein, SoftBank unveiled a new AI system for wireless signals in 2025 based on the Transformer model. This AI system, part of the Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network (AI-RAN) project, boosted 5G speeds by 30% in live tests, thus enhancing Japan’s role in developing AI-powered telecom and next-generation networks.

Japan’s New Role in the Telecom Ecosystem

Japan’s leading telecom companies are transitioning from being local market leaders to regional connectivity influencers. By exporting technology, expertise, and ethical standards, they are shaping Asia’s digital landscape. Japan’s influence, powered by 6G innovation, rural networking, and global collaborations, extends beyond its borders, fostering the development of smart, interconnected societies.

The success of these regional strategies hinges on balancing ambition with caution, and innovation with teamwork. Japan’s telecom industry has set its sights on larger goals, aiming to connect Asia and beyond by focusing on quality, trust, and ongoing innovation.

Questions & Answers

What is the current state of Japan’s telecom industry?
Japan’s telecom industry is robust and globally recognized, with leading telecom companies like NTT Group, SoftBank, and au by KDDI holding strong positions worldwide. However, due to Japan’s aging and declining population, these companies are looking for growth opportunities beyond the Asia Pacific.

How are Japanese telecom companies advancing 6G technology?
Japanese telecom companies such as NTT DOCOMO, SoftBank, and KDDI are spearheading the development of 6G technology. They are undertaking numerous initiatives, from standardizing 6G technology to conducting outdoor trials to comparing 6G and 5G urban coverage. They are also focusing on using AI to improve network systems, speed up connectivity, and broaden coverage.

What is the future outlook for Japan’s telecom industry?
Japan’s telecom industry is set to evolve from a domestic leader to a regional influencer, shaping Asia’s digital landscape and extending its impact beyond its borders. The industry is also aiming to connect Asia and the rest of the world by focusing on quality, trust, and ongoing innovation. The balance of ambition with caution and innovation with teamwork will be key to the success of these strategies.

October 31, 2025
AI-Driven Defense: Globe Business and Cyble Unite to Reinforce Enterprise Cybersecurity in the Philippines

Globe Business has forged a groundbreaking alliance with global cybersecurity powerhouse, Cyble, to launch an innovative AI-focused threat intelligence platform in the Philippines. This collaboration is designed to fortify enterprise cybersecurity and arm organizations with the tools necessary to proactively address emerging cyber threats.

This strategic partnership emerges amidst an escalating rise in cyberattacks across the nation. During the initial quarter of 2025, it was uncovered that over 1.2 million Filipinos’ credentials had been compromised and found on the dark web. Furthermore, the Philippines continues to grapple with a significant influx of phishing and credential theft incidents, while the evolving use of malware-as-a-service has rendered conventional network defenses increasingly fraught.

Leveraging AI for Threat Detection

The partnership leverages Globe Business’s in-depth local enterprise knowledge and Cyble’s cutting-edge AI-driven risk intelligence to enhance early threat detection and response capabilities. The newly introduced platform will collate and scrutinize data from various internet strata, alerting organizations to potential attacks, data breaches, or instances of brand impersonation before they escalate into major crises.

KD Dizon, the Head of Globe Business, noted:

“The battle against cybercrime is a contest of intelligence and speed. Our alliance with Cyble is about democratizing that power. It’s about equipping Philippine enterprises with AI-driven foresight, enabling them to transition from merely reacting to breaches to proactively leveraging data-informed resilience.”

Cyble’s platform employs agentic AI and its unique BlazeAI engine, which continually learns from emerging threat patterns. This system scans over 20 billion pages daily and monitors in excess of 15,000 cybercrime sources in real-time. This robust strategy allows security teams to identify exposed data, fraudulent domains, or network vulnerabilities at an early stage.

Facilitating Secure Digital Transformation

Beenu Arora, the Co-founder and CEO of Cyble, remarked:

“The Philippines confronts some of the world’s rapidly growing cyber risks. By marrying the scale of AI with Globe Business’s local expertise, we aim to help enterprises always maintain a step ahead of attackers.”

Globe Business emphasizes that this partnership underscores its commitment to facilitating secure digital transformation. It also highlights the increasing demand for AI-driven prevention strategies in cybersecurity, as these strategies offer wide-ranging support for various industries. Banks and financial institutions can identify compromised data early on and halt fraudulent activities, while retail and e-commerce companies can keep an eye on brand misuse and counterfeit products. Additionally, government agencies can also leverage this platform to detect signs of planned breaches or cyberattacks.

Questions & Answers

What is the purpose of the partnership between Globe Business and Cyble?
The partnership seeks to strengthen enterprise cybersecurity in the Philippines by introducing an AI-native threat intelligence platform.

What capabilities does Cyble’s platform offer to security teams?
Cyble’s platform uses agentic AI to process over 20 billion pages daily and monitor more than 15,000 cybercrime sources in real time, allowing early identification of exposed data, fraudulent domains, and network vulnerabilities.

How does this partnership benefit different industries?
This collaboration supports a variety of sectors. Financial institutions can detect compromised data early on, retail companies can monitor brand misuse, and government agencies can detect signs of planned cyberattacks.

October 29, 2025
Supreme Court Allows Reassessment of Vodafone Idea’s AGR Dues: A Win for 200 Million Consumers

Vodafone Idea (Vi) recently experienced a substantial win in the Supreme Court after the government agreed to revisit its request for additional adjusted gross revenue (AGR) dues from the corporation. The government’s decision is expected to be in accordance with the law.

Government’s Interest in Vi

Tushar Mehta, the Solicitor General representing the Union government, presented the case before a bench chaired by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai. Mehta noted an extensive shift in circumstances since the most recent AGR litigation involving Vi in the Supreme Court.

He informed the Court of the government’s significant 49% equity investment in the company, suggesting that the government’s interests were now tightly intertwined with those of the company and, in turn, the public. He added that the company’s decisions directly affect its 200 million consumers, and the government intended to thoroughly examine any issues, such as over-invoicing, to ensure they are adequately addressed.

Entering the “Policy Domain”

According to the Court, the matter has transitioned into the “policy domain” due to the government’s substantial equity investment and the involvement of 200 million customers. The Court had no objections to the government’s decision to revisit its demand for additional AGR dues for the fiscal year 2016-2017 and to make an appropriate decision that would serve the larger public interest.

Vi’s Appeal to the Supreme Court

Vi had approached the Supreme Court to contest the additional AGR demand issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for the 2016-2017 period. The corporation argued that the liabilities had already been calculated and shouldn’t be altered or increased. It sought the Court’s dismissal of the additional DoT demand and requested a comprehensive reassessment and reconciliation of AGR dues up until FY 2016-17.

Previous Rejections

This most recent litigation follows only months after the Supreme Court denied earlier appeals by Bharti Airtel, Vi, and Tata Teleservices. These companies were seeking relief from paying interest on dues, penalties, and interest on penalties related to their AGR liabilities, citing significant financial constraints.

In its May verdict, the Supreme Court labelled their pleas as “misconceived.” The Chief Justice had previously stressed the necessity for a conclusion in the AGR litigation. About a year ago, the Supreme Court rejected a curative petition filed by telecom companies, including Bharti Airtel and Vi, against the court’s October 2019 ruling that upheld the DoT’s move to recover approximately INR 92,000 crore in AGR from them.

Questions & Answers

What is the government’s stake in Vi?
The government holds a significant 49% equity investment in Vi.

What significant shift in circumstances was noted by the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta?
Tushar Mehta observed a major change in circumstances since the last AGR litigation involving Vi in the Supreme Court, particularly the government’s large equity investment in the company.

What was Vi’s argument to the Supreme Court against the additional AGR demand?
Vi argued that the liabilities had already been calculated and should not be altered or increased. The company sought a comprehensive reassessment and reconciliation of AGR dues up until FY 2016-17.

October 29, 2025
Global Internet Disruption: Amazon’s AWS Resumes After Massive Outage

Amazon’s cloud service, Amazon Web Services (AWS), resumed regular operations on Monday afternoon after an internet outage disrupted thousands of sites worldwide, affecting popular applications like Snapchat and Reddit. AWS, which provides application hosting and computing processes for businesses globally, suffered an interruption that impacted workers and halted regular activities such as online payments and ticket changes. Complaints of persistent difficulties with services like digital wallet Venmo and video-calling platform Zoom were reported on Monday afternoon.

Backlog of Messages and Previous Disruptions

Despite the resumption of services, Amazon noted that some AWS services had a backlog of messages that would require additional time to process. This isn’t the first time AWS has been implicated in a significant internet collapse. The northern Virginia cluster of AWS, known as US-EAST-1, has contributed to major internet meltdowns at least three times in the past five years.

Amazon did not provide a detailed explanation as to why this specific data centre continues to be affected. The recent problems were traced back to the Domain Name System (DNS), which averted applications from locating the correct address for AWS’s DynamoDB API, a cloud database essential for storing user information and other crucial data.

Root Cause and Effects

Earlier, AWS attributed the root cause of the outage to an underlying subsystem responsible for monitoring the health of its network load balancers, which help distribute traffic across multiple servers. The issue, according to AWS, originated within the EC2 internal network, Amazon’s Elastic Compute Cloud service, which offers on-demand cloud capacity within AWS. The issue was resolved around 3 pm PT (2200 GMT), although some services continued to have a backlog of messages to process.

Ken Birman, a computer science professor at Cornell University, emphasized the need for software developers to enhance fault tolerance, suggesting that AWS provides tools that developers can utilize to safeguard themselves in the event of an issue at one of its data centres.

AWS and Previous Outages

As the world’s largest cloud provider, AWS offers computing power, data storage, and other digital services to companies, governments, and individuals. Disruptions to its servers can result in outages across websites and platforms that depend on its cloud infrastructure. According to AWS, Monday’s outage started at its US-EAST-1 location, AWS’s oldest and largest site for web services, which previously suffered outages in 2021 and 2020.

Interconnected and Fragile Infrastructures

The problem underscores the interconnectivity of digital services and their reliance on a small number of global cloud providers. A single glitch can significantly disrupt businesses and everyday life.

The outage affected a vast range of companies across sectors. Apps like Reddit, Roblox, Snapchat, and Duolingo were all impacted. Other services such as Perplexity, a startup specializing in artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase, and trading app Robinhood also experienced disruptions attributed to AWS. Amazon’s own services, including its shopping website, Prime Video, and Alexa, were likewise affected.

Questions & Answers

What caused the AWS outage?
The outage was linked to an underlying subsystem that monitors the health of AWS’s network load balancers. It originated from within the EC2 internal network, Amazon’s Elastic Compute Cloud service.

What were the effects of the AWS outage?
The outage disrupted thousands of sites and applications globally, including popular apps like Snapchat and Reddit. It also halted regular activities such as online payments and ticket changes.

How often has the AWS northern Virginia cluster experienced major internet disruptions?
The northern Virginia cluster of AWS, known as US-EAST-1, has contributed to major internet meltdowns at least three times in the past five years.

October 22, 2025