Telecom in News
South Africa Delays Analogue TV Switch-Off
South Africa has postponed its analogue TV switch-off to March 31, 2025, to ensure set-top boxes reach 467,000 households. The costly dual illumination setup continues, adding to the R1.23 billion taxpayer expense. The government prioritizes delivering these devices, avoiding disruptions to citizens’ constitutional rights to information. Read More
AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone Sign 10-Year Deal
AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone have finalized a 10-year deal enabling space-based broadband across Vodafone’s markets. AST’s satellite tech connects areas lacking infrastructure, with Block 2 satellites promising speeds of 120 Mbps. This partnership brings connectivity to 2.8 billion people served by over 45 mobile operators. Read More
SpaceX Completes Starlink Direct-to-Cell Constellation
SpaceX launched 20 Starlink satellites, completing its direct-to-cell network. This tech enables unmodified phones to connect directly to satellites, providing 10 Mbps in remote areas. The service currently works with carriers in countries like the U.S., Japan, and Canada, with upgrades planned for higher speeds. Read More
du and Nokia Launch First 5G Cloud RAN in MEA
du and Nokia unveiled the Middle East and Africa’s first commercial 5G Cloud RAN site. Using Nokia’s anyRAN tech, the project integrates AI and private wireless networks for hybrid 5G architecture. This deployment will drive innovation and enhance network efficiency in Abu Dhabi. Read More
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Top Industry Headlines
- U.S. House To Allocate $3 Billion To Remove Huawei Telecom Equipment
- Ericsson Launches Compact Packet Core For Cloud-Native Transformation
- Elon Musk’s xAI Raises $6 Billion in Latest Funding Round
- Kansas to Invest $10.7M in Public Wi-Fi and Internet Access
- Top Telecom News of 2024 & Key Issues for 2025
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Did You Know?
In 2019, Japan introduced 5G hologram concerts to celebrate the launch of its ultra-high-speed network. This innovation allowed fans to experience live performances of artists in real time, streamed holographically to various venues nationwide.