EMEA Tier-1 Telcos – Page 153
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Premium
Telefónica moves further into edge zone with Microsoft
Group edge computing activity picks up pace with use-cases aimed at both consumer and enterprise customers, including a new cloud gaming platform.
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Premium
O2 Germany updates on turbo-charged 5G
Doubles the number of cities with 5G to around 60 in space of six weeks. Launches standalone 5G core in Munich; nationwide deployment slated for summer 2021. 5G carrier aggregation sees lift-off in Munich.
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Partnerships & Alliances
O2 adopts ‘conversational’ AI-based platform
Operator purchases three-year licence, with AI tech set to support long-term aim of becoming CX “champion”.
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Network & Infra
O2 deal with Vodafone to supplement spectrum gains
Ofcom closes assignment stage of UK spectrum auction with O2 trading blocks with Vodafone, while BT opts to buy preferable positions outright. O2–Vodafone trade ensures contiguous spectrum blocks in 5G-ready bands.
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Suppliers & SCM
Nokia supplies “final piece” in Spain’s IP Fusión jigsaw
Telefónica España apparently on home straight to complete “end-to-end” IP network transformation. Latest Nokia kit deployment aimed at extending 5G, FTTH coverage to rural and remote areas.
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Strategy & Change
Elsewhere in Telefónica Infra-Tech: Siemens paired for smart buildings
Siemens partnered for smart buildings; Gilat wins teleport contract; Silicom selected for SME SD-WAN drive.
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Network & Infra
Openreach doubles rural fibre targets
Infrastructure business targets six million premises passed with full-fibre by 2025, aided by recruitment drive and enhanced investment. 4.8 million total premises passed so far, but no word on rural progress. Collaboration with government and fellow builders key to hitting goals.
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M&A
Tele2 ready to pull T-Mobile Netherlands plug
Tele2 Group CEO confirms intent to pivot away from the Dutch market, with focus on its ‘core’ territories. Comments come with DT also pondering options.
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Products & Services
Movistar Game shaping up to be Telefónica’s cloud gaming bet
Cloud gaming project has its roots in a 2018 Innovation Call and is said to be in the ‘prototyping phase’. Ludico is internal code name for all gaming activities at the Group.
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M&A
Telefónica Colombia dials up DIRECTV buyout
DIRECTV internet services customer base and spectrum to be acquired under agreement, pending regulatory approval. Deal indicates “commitment” to Colombia despite rumblings of an exit, says CEO Hernández.
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Innovation
Wayra widens scope of blockchain tech programme
Innovation unit’s Activation Programme blockchain stream now welcoming proposals from startups in “any sector”.
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Partnerships & Alliances
BT taps into Salesforce on enterprise CX
BT’s Amit Sharma provides insights into the Group’s collaboration with Salesforce on the implementation of Open APIs. Aim is to create a more automated, digitally-led customer experience for enterprises. Project sees adoption of iterative approach, with less ‘big bang’.
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Premium
O2 data centres cool off with fresh air
Data centre upgrade reduces carbon emissions. New fresh air cooling equipment, paired with software from EkkoSense, used to keep data centres cool. “Radical” system supports O2’s pursuit of net-zero emissions by 2025.
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Network & Infra
Frosty O2 and Drillisch finalise roaming deal
A new commercial arrangement with current MVNO landlord O2 Germany should enable the United Internet mobile player to forge ahead with plans for a 5G network. O2 aims to use the “significant proceeds” of the contract to accelerate its network expansion. Described neutrally as a reset of their relationship, ...
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Strategy & Change
Telefónica Peru set for further workforce cuts
Hispam unit’s headcount reduction plans emerge as part of restructuring process. Layoffs to be given go ahead by MTPE, according to Peruvian news outlets. Move follows stark FY20 results.
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Suppliers & SCM
Vodafone cancels Arch Summit 2021
Cancellation blamed on coronavirus-inflicted restrictions on travel. 2022 dates to be announced in “coming weeks”.
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Network & Infra
DT ready to carve out “kingmaker” tower assets
Deutsche Telekom wants to carve out “all” of its towers across Europe, says CFO Christian Illek. Change in mindset comes following rapid rise in TowerCo valuations. Czech and Slovakian footprint next to be assessed for extraction from NatCos.
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M&A
VM-O2 sets sights on BT as merger gets final clearance
CMA’s final approval should see deal completed by 1 June. Owners trumpeting investment opportunities with fibre InfraCo potential coming to the fore.
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M&A
Deutsche Telekom pondering Dutch M&A options
Group appears cold on possibility of buying out junior partner in T-Mobile Netherlands when options open up in January 2022. New tie-up or sale flagged as likelier outcomes.
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Strategy & Change
Elsewhere in Vodafone Group: Legal advisory panel refresh; Adobe trumpets VPC ties
Vodafone cancels Arch Summit 2021; Group updates legal advice team; Adobe describes VPC ties as “crucial”.