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Tag: Viettel

  • Viettel Spearheads Vietnam’s Tech Revolution with Groundbreaking Semiconductor Chip Fabrication Plant

    Viettel Spearheads Vietnam’s Tech Revolution with Groundbreaking Semiconductor Chip Fabrication Plant

    Viettel Group, a Vietnamese multinational telecommunications corporation, has recently launched the initialization phase of building the country’s first semiconductor chip fabrication plant. This ambitious venture, endorsed by the Ministry of National Defense, is a part of a governmental initiative to indigenize chip production capabilities. The project is aimed at developing a comprehensive domestic ecosystem for semiconductor technologies.

    Plant Details and Its Impact

    The prospective plant will be based in Hanoi, within the Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, spread across an area of approximately 27 hectares. Its intended purpose is to serve as a national hub for a variety of processes including research, design, testing, and the actual production of semiconductor chips.

    Upon becoming operational, the plant is expected to bolster several national industries, including aerospace, telecommunications, the Internet of Things (IoT), automotive manufacturing, medical devices, and automation, among others.

    Filling the Gap in the Production Process

    The process of creating a fully functional semiconductor chip necessitates six primary stages: product definition, system design, detailed design, chip fabrication, packaging and testing, and integration and testing. To date, Vietnam has engaged in five of these steps, with chip fabrication—the most intricate and crucial stage—remaining unattained domestically. The establishment of the proposed semiconductor chip fabrication plant will enable Vietnam to close this gap, allowing it to complete the full spectrum of the semiconductor chip production process.

    The Prime Minister of Vietnam, Pham Minh Chinh, emphasized the significance of the project, stating that the groundbreaking of the country’s first high-tech semiconductor chip fabrication plant is a momentous event. It signifies a step towards achieving the national strategy for the development of the semiconductor industry and sets the foundation for Vietnam to integrate more deeply into the global value chain through advancements in science, technology, and innovation.

    Training and Workforce Development

    In addition, the plant is expected to function as a practical training center for the semiconductor workforce, merging training with an authentic production environment. As a part of the National Semiconductor Strategy, Vietnam is planning to train 50,000 chip design engineers by 2030, with an aim to cultivate a workforce of over 100,000 individuals in the semiconductor industry by 2040.

    The CEO of Viettel Group, Lieutenant General Tao Duc Thang, emphasized that the plant’s construction would be completed, technology transfer received, and pilot production initiated all by the end of 2027.

    Future Aspirations

    The fabrication plant project will unfold between 2026 and 2030, incorporating plant construction, technology transfer, process perfection, and improved operational efficiency. The project’s long-term vision includes the expansion of the Hoa Lac plant, which would provide a platform for Vietnam to gradually access more advanced semiconductor technologies.

    The launch of this high-tech semiconductor chip fabrication plant is a significant step in Vietnam’s journey towards building technological capabilities, contributing to the country’s objective of technological self-reliance and lasting sustainability.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the purpose of the semiconductor chip fabrication plant?
    The plant will serve as a national hub for research, design, testing, and production of semiconductor chips, supporting numerous national industries.

    What is the timeline for the plant’s construction and operation?
    The plant is expected to be constructed, receive technology transfer, and begin pilot production by the end of 2027. The period from 2028 to 2030 will focus on process optimization and efficiency improvements.

    How will the plant contribute to workforce development in Vietnam?
    The plant will also serve as a practical training center for the semiconductor workforce, attempting to train 50,000 chip design engineers by 2030, and aim for a workforce of over 100,000 in the industry by 2040.

  • Viettel Expands Customer Experience with Nokia’s Cutting-Edge BNG-CUPS Solutions

    Viettel Expands Customer Experience with Nokia’s Cutting-Edge BNG-CUPS Solutions

    Nokia is set to transform Viettel’s fixed broadband network through the implementation of its Broadband Network Gateway-Control User Plane Separation (BNG-CUPS) solution in the Hanoi Metro area. This strategic move will see Viettel replace its aging legacy system, paving the way for more efficient operations and an enhanced experience for subscribers.

    Digital Landscape and Infrastructure Growth

    Vietnam’s digital economy is on a rapid growth trajectory, driven by the meteoric rise of e-commerce, fintech innovations, and cloud technology adoption. The government’s National Digital Transformation strategy aims for the digital economy to account for a staggering 30% of GDP by 2030. To support this ambitious goal, robust digital infrastructure—including reliable broadband connectivity—becomes essential.

    Viettel’s Commitment to Network Excellence

    Nguyen Tran Quynh, Deputy Director of Technical Global Center at Viettel, expressed enthusiasm for this groundbreaking initiative: “This initiative reiterates our commitment to continuously elevate network performance to deliver a best-in-class experience for our subscribers. We are excited to collaborate with Nokia to modernize the fixed broadband network while streamlining our daily operations. The solution will also help us enhance the energy efficiency of our networks. We are confident that Nokia’s solution will enable us to further strengthen network availability and reliability.”

    Nokia’s Integral Role in Telecommunications Innovation

    Kent Wong, Vice President and Head of IP Networks for Asia Pacific at Nokia, also weighed in on this significant project: “Nokia is at the forefront of developments in IP networks and we also led the specification and implementation of the BNG-CUPS architecture standard. This is a milestone project for us as it marks the first deployment of BNG-CUPS in Vietnam. We are delighted that our BNG-CUPS solution will enable Viettel to modernize its fixed broadband network to advance towards a more reliable, energy-efficient, and high-performing network.”

    This upgrade will be powered by Nokia’s 7750 Service Router, featuring the innovative FP5 chipset, designed to offer a remarkable 75% reduction in energy consumption. Furthermore, Nokia’s Network Services Platform will provide Viettel with the tools needed to simplify operations and rapidly adapt to fluctuating demands. The CUPS architecture allows for a separation of the control plane from the user plane, facilitating greater flexibility in scaling and edge deployments. After all, if the future of broadband isn’t green and efficient, we’re probably just borrowing it!

    Questions & Answers

    What specific technologies will Viettel implement in the upgrade?
    Viettel will deploy Nokia’s Broadband Network Gateway-Control User Plane Separation (BNG-CUPS) solution, utilizing the 7750 Service Router with the FP5 chipset.

    How does this upgrade support Vietnam’s digital economy goals?
    The upgrade will enhance broadband connectivity, crucial for achieving the government’s ambition for the digital economy to constitute 30% of GDP by 2030.

    What are the energy efficiency benefits of the new solution?
    Nokia’s 7750 Service Router is designed to reduce energy consumption by 75%, contributing to a more environmentally friendly network operation.

  • Viettel Amplifies Vietnam’s Digital Growth and Defense Strategy for a Bold Future

    Viettel Amplifies Vietnam’s Digital Growth and Defense Strategy for a Bold Future

    Viettel Group has made headlines with its ambitious investment of approximately USD 1 billion in two pivotal national projects: the An Khanh Data Center in Hanoi and the Viettel Research & Development (R&D) Center in Hoa Lac. This substantial commitment is part of a larger initiative celebrating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution on August 19 and National Day on September 2, underscoring Viettel’s leadership in advancing strategic technologies per the Politburo’s Resolution 57-NQ/TW, which aims to establish a national network of research centers and high-tech labs.

    A Hub of Innovation Takes Shape

    Spanning 13 hectares in the Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park, the Viettel R&D Center represents a total investment of VND 10 trillion (USD 380 million). Designed to be a comprehensive innovation hub, this facility will feature six smart buildings and is slated for completion by 2030. The R&D Center will address the full innovation cycle, from research and design to prototyping and manufacturing, focusing on creating high-tech “Made in Vietnam” products. It will cater to both defense and civilian technology, prioritizing advancements in propulsion systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), remote sensing satellites, radar systems, and cutting-edge civilian applications in big data, AI, and cloud computing. Built to international standards, the R&D hub will boast smart, green designs while emphasizing safety and cybersecurity. When fully operational, it is projected to attract 2,500 highly skilled professionals and significantly bolster Vietnam’s national defense modernization efforts.

    A Data Center to Power Digital Transformation

    In tandem, the An Khanh Data Center is set to become the largest facility of its kind in northern Vietnam, located on a 1.9-hectare site in Hanoi’s An Khanh commune. Equipped with an investment of VND 17.5 trillion (USD 664.9 million), the center will have a designed capacity of 60 MW, with Phase 1 expected to go live in the second quarter of 2026. Plans are in place to evolve this facility into Viettel’s second hyperscale data center by 2030. Adhering to Uptime Tier III standards, the data center will integrate Viettel’s proprietary AI for operations, a five-layer security framework, and cutting-edge cooling technologies. Its sustainable design aligns with Vietnam’s Net Zero emissions goal, and it is poised to play a crucial role in the nation’s digital transformation, serving governmental agencies, the Ministry of National Defense, major enterprises, and national-level AI initiatives.

    Expanding the Technological Landscape

    Currently operating 14 data centers across Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Binh Duong, Viettel has an aggressive expansion plan. The company is in the process of constructing 11 more centers, aiming to establish a total of 24 data centers with a combined capacity of 560 MW by 2030 — a strategic move designed to meet 40% of Vietnam’s projected data demand. Aside from these two flagship projects, Viettel is also ramping up the construction of additional critical tech infrastructure, including the Tan Phu Trung Data Center in Ho Chi Minh City and the Viettel Tower in Da Nang. As we navigate this exciting technological landscape, one can only wonder: how many more innovative spaces can one company create before they run out of land?

    Questions & Answers

    What are the main features of the Viettel R&D Center?
    The Viettel R&D Center will span 13 hectares and feature six smart buildings, focusing on the entire innovation cycle from research to manufacturing, particularly in high-tech defense and civilian applications.

    How will the An Khanh Data Center contribute to Vietnam’s digital transformation?
    The An Khanh Data Center, with a designed capacity of 60 MW, will serve government agencies and major enterprises, playing a key role in supporting national data needs and integrating advanced technologies like AI.

    What is Viettel’s long-term expansion plan for data centers in Vietnam?
    Viettel aims to establish 24 data centers by 2030 with a total capacity of 560 MW, targeting to meet 40% of Vietnam’s projected demand for data services.

  • Viettel Bolsters Vietnam’s Digital Transformation and Defense Strategies for a Progressive Future

    Viettel Bolsters Vietnam’s Digital Transformation and Defense Strategies for a Progressive Future

    Viettel Group is set to make waves in Vietnam’s tech landscape with a remarkable investment of approximately USD 1 billion in two major projects: the An Khanh Data Center in Hanoi and the Viettel Research & Development (R&D) Center in Hoa Lac. These initiatives not only celebrate Vietnam’s 80th anniversary of the August Revolution on August 19 and National Day on September 2 but also underscore Viettel’s commitment to driving technological advancement as outlined in the Politburo’s Resolution 57-NQ/TW.

    A Hub for Innovation: Viettel’s R&D Center Takes Shape

    Spanning an impressive 13 hectares within the Hoa Lac Hi-tech Park, the Viettel R&D Center boasts a total investment of VND 10 trillion (USD 380 million). Featuring six state-of-the-art buildings designed as a comprehensive innovation hub, this facility aims for completion by 2030. It will encapsulate the entire innovation cycle, from research and design to prototyping and manufacturing, promoting the development of high-tech “Made in Vietnam” products.

    With a focus on both defense and civilian technology, the center will delve into key areas including propulsion systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), remote sensing satellites, radar systems, and advanced civilian applications in big data, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. Notably, the R&D hub will be built to international standards that prioritize sustainability, safety, and cybersecurity, while promising to attract 2,500 skilled professionals who will bolster Vietnam’s modernization efforts in national defense.

    The An Khanh Data Center: A Giant in Northern Vietnam

    Meanwhile, the An Khanh Data Center is poised to become the largest facility of its kind in northern Vietnam, sprawling over a 1.9-hectare site in Hanoi’s An Khanh commune. This ambitious project, with an investment of VND 17.5 trillion (USD 664.9 million), aims to achieve a designed capacity of a whopping 60 MW. The first phase is scheduled to launch in Q2 of 2026, with plans for further expansion by 2030, transforming this site into Viettel’s second hyperscale data center.

    Adhering to Uptime Tier III standards, the data center will incorporate advanced AI technologies developed by Viettel, alongside a robust five-layer security system and cutting-edge cooling technologies. It is designed with sustainability in mind, aligning seamlessly with Vietnam’s Net Zero emissions target. By providing essential support to government agencies, the Ministry of National Defense, and large enterprises, the center is set to play a pivotal role in the country’s digital transformation and national-scale AI applications.

    Expanding Infrastructure Across Vietnam

    Viettel’s ambitions don’t stop here. Currently operating 14 data centers across major cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Binh Duong, with another 11 under construction, the company aims to build a total of 24 data centers with a combined capacity of 560 MW by 2030. This network is expected to satisfy 40% of Vietnam’s projected demand for data services. Alongside these developments, Viettel is also fast-tracking other critical tech infrastructures, including the Tan Phu Trung Data Center in Ho Chi Minh City and the Viettel Tower in Da Nang, revealing a passionate commitment to shaping the future of Vietnam’s digital landscape.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of Viettel’s investment in these projects?
    Viettel’s investment of USD 1 billion underscores its commitment to advancing Vietnam’s technological infrastructure, aligning with national goals for modernization and innovation in line with the Politburo’s directives.

    How will the R&D Center impact Vietnam’s economy?
    The R&D Center is expected to foster high-tech innovation, create 2,500 skilled jobs, and support the production of various advanced technologies, significantly contributing to Vietnam’s economic growth and defense capabilities.

    When is the An Khanh Data Center expected to be operational?
    Phase 1 of the An Khanh Data Center is scheduled to launch in the second quarter of 2026, with plans for further expansion by 2030, enhancing Vietnam’s digital infrastructure.

  • Viettel Begins Construction of Vietnam’s Largest Data Center

    Viettel Begins Construction of Vietnam’s Largest Data Center

    Viettel has started building a new data center campus in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This will be Viettel’s largest data center yet, boasting a capacity of 140 MW and around 10,000 racks. The facility will cover approximately 40,000 sqm (430,555 sq. ft.) on a 4-hectare site. The data center is expected to be operational by 2026 and fully completed by 2030.

    It will be situated in Tan Phu Trung Industrial Park, Cu Chi district, which is 25 km from Ho Chi Minh City and 15 km from Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Huyen Nguyen, Deputy Director of Viettel’s International Business Center, mentioned that the data center aims to achieve a power usage effectiveness (PUE) of less than 1.4 and comply with Uptime Tier III standards. Viettel currently runs 15 data centers in Vietnam with a total capacity of 87 MW.

    The company plans to build 24 data centers by 2030, with a combined capacity of 560 MW. Viettel’s IDC data center unit offers colocation and cloud services from five data centers across Hanoi (x2), Da Nang (x1), and Ho Chi Minh City (x2), totaling 25,000 sqm (269,100 sq. ft).

    Notably, Vietnam recently lifted restrictions on the foreign ownership of data centers, removing the 49% cap.

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  • Viettel Cyber Security’s Free Service Uncovers Risks for Philippine Businesses

    Viettel Cyber Security’s Free Service Uncovers Risks for Philippine Businesses

    In response to the growing need for enhanced cybersecurity, Viettel Cyber Security (VCS) has launched a free, innovative cyber threat check service specifically designed for businesses in the Philippines.

    The service provides real-time alerts on threats such as data breaches and compromised company accounts, along with personalized recommendations. Customers can access the service by simply entering their domain, allowing the system to conduct an automated scan.

    The VCS free cyber threat check quickly evaluates a company’s cybersecurity status. Within minutes, businesses receive a detailed report outlining vulnerabilities and risks, complete with metrics, severity scores based on asset value and threat intensity, and actionable recommendations from VCS. This real-time, no-cost service offers expert insights, helping companies of all sizes proactively protect their digital assets, prioritize critical risks, and strengthen their defenses—without the need for complex setup.

    The VCS free cyber threat check report offers essential insights into cybersecurity risks, helping businesses identify and address potential vulnerabilities. The report detects:

    • Compromised Accounts: Provides details on any compromised accounts associated with the organization.
    • Data Leaks: Supplies information on data breaches that may have exposed sensitive information.
    • Brand Phishing: Identifies fraudulent websites and phishing attempts that imitate the organization’s brand.
    • Impersonation Threats: Detects unauthorized entities attempting to impersonate the brand or business.
    • Unusual Open Ports: Highlights any open ports that could pose security risks.
    • Malware Infections: Identifies systems within the organization that may be infected with malicious software.
    • Web Security and Protocol Configuration: Assesses the security settings of the company’s web assets.

    After completing the scan, VCS compiles the findings and offers customized recommendations, including actionable solutions for each identified vulnerability. This detailed report helps businesses proactively enhance their cybersecurity measures and effectively manage risks.

  • Nokia to Equip Viettel with Optical Transport Solution

    Nokia to Equip Viettel with Optical Transport Solution

    This initiative aims to meet the increasing demand for 5G, Data Center Interconnect (DCI), and cross-border connectivity. The collaboration follows a successful trial during which Nokia’s PSE-6s achieved a record transmission speed of 1.2 Tbps per wavelength in real-world conditions. The deployment, expected to be completed by 2025, will enhance connectivity between Viettel’s data centers in major cities, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, improving capacity and energy efficiency.

    Nokia’s new optical solution, utilizing the PSE-6s technology, will enable Viettel to scale its network while maintaining high performance efficiently. The solution supports three 800GE or six 400GE services on a single line card, allowing Viettel to increase its total network capacity to 38.4 Tbps over the C-band. Additionally, this technology is expected to help Viettel reduce network power consumption by as much as 60%.

    Nguyen Van Yen, Head of Viettel Regional Transmission, said, “The smooth execution of the record-breaking trial convinced us that Nokia was the right partner for this crucial initiative. Now, we are delighted with the seamless deployment of Nokia’s innovative PSE-6 super-coherent optical engine, which will provide the required capacity for our existing and growing needs while making us ready for 5G and cloud-based use cases.”

    Vito Di Maria, Head of Optical Networks at Nokia Asia Pacific, emphasized the challenges service providers face due to rising data traffic, highlighting the importance of scalable optical networks. He noted that Nokia’s PSE-6s technology will enable Viettel to effectively meet increasing data demands while improving network reliability and energy efficiency.

  • Vietnam launches commercial 5G services

    Vietnam launches commercial 5G services

    Vietnam’s first commercial 5G services were launched in all localities Tuesday morning by military-owned telecom giant Viettel, with subscription starting at VND135,000 (US$5.4) a month.

    The company announced at the launching event that it has installed 6,500 base transceiver stations in all 63 provinces and cities, with speeds of up to 1 gigabyte per second, or 10 times that of current 4G services.

    Vietnam lagged behind the world in launching 2G, 3G and 4G services, but now it has matched other countries in offering commercial 5G, and is among five countries that can produce 5G equipment, said Tao Duc Thang, Viettel chairman and CEO.

    “A new future of mobile services begins today.”

    Viettel offers 11 prepaid plans starting from VND135,000 a month and 8 postpaid plans from VND200,000 for individual customers.

    Users with 5G-enabled devices can subscribe to the service without changing their SIM cards.

    Viettel has also developed 130 different usage scenarios suited to the need of corporates and organizations in all industries, with cloud, artificial intelligence, and internet of things features available.

    Viettel began 5G trials in 2019 on the 4G platform and earlier this year tested services on a standalone 5G network.

    5G, with ultra-low latency, is expected to support services that demand immediate responses, such as self-driving cars, remote surgeries, smart factory controls, and virtual reality classrooms.

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  • Viettel to gift 4G phones to 700,000 2G subscribers

    Viettel to gift 4G phones to 700,000 2G subscribers

    State-owned telecom giant Viettel will spend VND300 billion (US$12.2 million) to gift 4G phones to 700,000 of its subscribers who still use 2G devices.

    The military-owned company announced Friday that the program, which aims to support a rapid switch to 4G networks, is meant for customers still using 2G phones who lack access to 4G devices due to their remote location or financial status.

    It plans to gift feature phones but with added cloud phone features that allow the use of some OTT apps.

    The program will run from now until the 2G network is shut down on Oct. 15, with eligible users getting a message instructing them to go to the nearest Viettel store or contact its local employees for support.

    Viettel said it would prioritize subscribers in mountainous regions affected by recent storms, like Lao Cai, Yen Bai, Tuyen Quang, Hoa Binh, Bac Kan, Son La, Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Cao Bang, and Ha Giang provinces.

    The Ministry of Information and Communications and telecom firms have been taking a number of measures to promote the shift from 2G. The number of 2G users declined from 11 million in July to three million now.

    Viettel has the most 2G subscribers of any network operator, but has seen over eight million switch to 4G devices this year.

    It recently installed over 6,000 new base stations nationwide to expand its 4G network coverage to 96% of the population, including four million new users in remote and rural areas.

    Pulling the plug on 2G will promote the adoption of 4G, which can help familiarize people with digital and online public services, and free up resources for network providers to focus on developing 5G and 6G technologies.

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  • FPT Retail debuts mobile virtual network in Vietnam

    FPT Retail debuts mobile virtual network in Vietnam

    Electronics retailer FPT Retail has unveiled its own mobile virtual network, marking it as the country’s fifth such network.

    Known for operating the FPT Shop chain and being a subsidiary of the tech giant FPT, FPT Retail does not have its own network infrastructure but leases network services from MobiFone and offers subscriptions to consumers at its own pricing.

    With an established ecosystem that includes over 800 FPT Shops across 63 Vietnamese cities and provinces, FPT Retail is poised to leverage its substantial retail presence. These shops annually sell around 1.5 million smartphones and various electronic gadgets.

    The new network will be infused with advanced features like cloud computing and artificial intelligence, targeting a demographic keen on cutting-edge technologies, specifically younger consumers. It also aims to cater to businesses and households.

    FPT Retail’s strategy involves incorporating various FPT services into the network, enhancing the overall user experience, said CEO Hoang Trung Kien.

    The introduction of this network adds to the existing roster of mobile virtual network operators in Vietnam, which currently includes iTel, Wintel, Local, and VNSKY.

    As of early 2023, these operators collectively serviced about 2.56 million subscribers, accounting for 2.1% of the total Vietnamese market.

    The majority of the market is still dominated by five telecom firms that own network infrastructure, namely VinaPhone, Viettel, MobiFone, Vietnammobile, and Gtel.

  • Viettel profits highest in 5 years

    Viettel profits highest in 5 years

    Military-owned telecommunications giant Viettel Group earned pre-tax profits of VND43.1 trillion ($1.8 billion) in 2022, the highest growth recorded since 2017.

    The profits rose 3% from 2021. The group’s consolidated revenues increased by 6.1% to VND163 trillion.

    Viettel said telecommunications continued to be its main source of revenue, as the company remained the largest mobile telecommunications service provider in Vietnam, with a market share of 54%.

    Viettel’s telecommunications service revenue growth rate was 1.5 times higher than the world’s average.

    Last year, Viettel’s foreign investment for the first time reached nearly $3 billion. Meanwhile, it remitted home nearly $500 million, the highest amount in the last five years. By the end of last year, it had repatriated nearly 70% of its total investment abroad.

    The digital solutions and services provided by Viettel also had a breakthrough when revenues from information technology solutions surged by 58%.

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  • Mobile virtual network operators hold 1% market share

    Mobile virtual network operators hold 1% market share

    With over one million subscribers, the country’s three mobile virtual network operators, who piggyback on large telecom companies, have a market share of 1%.

    iTel, Reddi and Local do not have their own infrastructure or radio frequencies and instead pay to use VinaPhone, Viettel, MobiFone, Vietnamobile, or Gtel’s.

    iTel, which depends on VinaPhone’s infrastructure and frequencies, has one million subscribers, according to the Ministry of Information and Communications.

    It reported revenues of VND442 billion ($18.4 million) this year, 4.5 times the whole of last year’s, and profits of VND28 billion.

    Reddi, which has nearly 50,000 subscribers, saw sales of VND15 billion. It had losses of VND27.8 billion and VND55.9 billion in 2020 and 2021.

    Local, which launched its services in mid-2022, focuses on providing low-cost data packages, which are preferred by young people.

    In April Digilife Vietnam Digital Services Company received a mobile virtual network operator’s license but has yet to begin offering services.

    Such companies focus on attracting customers interested in large data packages at reasonable charges such as workers, students and foreign tourists.

    Vietnam had nearly 120 million mobile phone subscribers, including some 93.7 million using smartphones, according to the ministry.

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  • Mobile money service attracts 2.2 mln users

    Mobile money service attracts 2.2 mln users

    The mobile money service, which allows users to deposit, withdraw, pay or transfer money on mobile devices, has signed up nearly 2.2 million subscribers in eight months.

    Of the customers, 69% are from rural and mountainous areas, according to the Ministry of Information and Communications.

    The service are jointly offered on a trial basis by three leading telecommunications service providers Viettel, MobiFone and VinaPhone. Viettel has roughly 1.4 million mobile money users, VinaPhone, 700,000, and MobiFone, nearly 500,000.

    Viettel and VinaPhone customers can transfer money from Mobile Phone accounts to bank accounts and vice versa. In the past, they had to deposit or withdraw money at transaction offices or authorized agents of the mobile network operators.

    As of late September, Vietnam had nearly 120 million mobile phone subscribers, including some 93.7 million using smartphones, according to the ministry.

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  • Viettel to produce chips amidst global shortage

    Viettel to produce chips amidst global shortage

    Telecommunication giant Viettel has proposed that it produces chips to meet domestic demand and for export in addition to offering e-payment services.

    Leaders of the military-owned Viettel Group made the proposal at a Tuesday meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

    The proposal was made in the context of the recent global chip shortage, which has seriously affected many manufacturing sectors and business areas, prompting several countries to promote chip production as a national security measure.

    In this context, the group also asked to be assigned the tasks of ensuring national defense and security, promoting its strengths and demonstrating the pioneering role of state-owned companies in the fields of high-tech defense, construction and cyber security and safety.

    Viettel said it wanted to deploy a national digital conversion platform, and work as an intermediary for financial switching services and electronic clearing services to facilitate transfer of funds from one bank account to another.

    The group also wanted permission to research green energy technology and modernize important infrastructure in the field of transportation, logistics, urban areas, and science and technology.

    It also asked for more leeway in deciding investment capital and salaries, as well as organizing its internal units.

    At the same time, it suggested that the government adds a new legal corridor for state-owned firms, such as a mechanism to make evaluations based on the principle of overall investment efficiency instead of relying on individual investment items and projects, and a mechanism to establish a Venture Capital Fund for investment in innovative start-ups.

    PM Chinh said Viettel should research and produce chips to effectively and efficiently serve the country’s digital transformation process, including building a digital government, digital economy and digital society. He said Viettel must be a corporation that plays a leading role in this process.

    He also agreed that the group works as an intermediary for financial switching and electronic clearing services, and assigned related ministers to study the plan and report on it to the government.

    Viettel has been maintaining an average pre-tax profit of over VND40 trillion ($1.7 billion) each year for several years.

    The group is doing business in ten markets with a total population size of 260 million in three continents, and has so far reported profits in seven markets, at $250-350 million per year.

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  • Vietnam to begin 6G technology research and development

    Vietnam to begin 6G technology research and development

    Vietnam will start researching 6G wireless networks in 2022, says Information and Communications Minister Nguyen Manh Hung. Addressing a 2021 telecom review conference last weekend, Hung said Vietnam’s telecom industry should “be in the top group in terms of deploying 5G and developing 6G networks in the world.”

    He said Vietnam will carry out 6G research this year alongside nationwide deployment of the 5G network. According to the ministry Department of Telecommunications, a steering committee for 6G research development has been formed. Vietnam is one of the world’s first ten countries to set up this committee.

    Hung also set a target of 6G frequencies being licensed by 2028 before moving on to its commercial rollout.

    “Telecom networks must quickly transition to cloud-based and software-based architectures, so that the network becomes intelligent and flexible, and can be software-configured into numerous specialized sub-networks. Open RAN will be used as a technology for 5G, 6G development,” he said.

    Vietnamese companies should target to successfully research and manufacture 5G and 6G equipment, transmission equipment, and terminal equipment, he added.

    A representative of the department said that Vietnam will commercialize 5G this year and aim to have 25 percent of the population using the technology by 2025. He said 4G services currently cover 99.8 percent of the country.

    Three major telecom providers VNPT, MobiFone, and Viettel have been commercially trialing 5G services in 16 provinces and cities.

    6G technology is the next step after 5G that is being researched in a few countries including the U.S. and China.

    In theory, 6G could reach speeds of one terabit per second, it has been reported.

    The 6G network is expected to lay the groundwork for an “intelligent era” in which AI and robots become commonplace. However, no technical standards or frequencies for 6G have been agreed upon as yet.

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