Cloud Technology News
All the latest insight, news and analysis around cloud technology involving BT, Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica and Vodafone.
Strategy & Change
Telefónica quietly drops LUCA brand as Telefónica Tech takes over
Unclear whether the more high‑profile ElevenPaths brand has also been retired. Former LUCA product AI Suite showcased at MWC, but still not widely marketed.
M&A
Telefónica Tech preps for part‑sale
Long‑mooted divestment plan appears close to initiation, with reports indicating private equity interest. Division not the big‑hitter it once claimed to become, but hoping to draw punters through M&A and partnerships. Downsized ambition and reset scope remind of last decade’s Telefónica Digital, where grand ambition faded away.
Network & Infrastructure
Telefónica weighs up public cloud for 5G SA
Trial with AWS in Brazil provides some assurances, but several elements still need to be clarified.
Products & Services
DT makes next‑gen home improvements
Homegrown and open‑source tech underpin consumer services strategy. New Home OS and Router OS in the spotlight. DT goes big on cloudification, voic‑ification, and orchestration.
Partnerships & Alliances
Vodafone TV seeks AI smarts with Kaltura and AWS
Next phase for cloud‑based Vodafone TV is applying ML and AI. Operator also exploring MEC via AWS partnership for low‑latency TV services.
Strategy & Change
Fintechs ready to disrupt capital markets’ status quo
BT Radianz directors discuss the potential for fintechs to drive a step change in the capital markets sector. Hybrid cloud described as an accelerator at the culmination of a 20‑year digitalisation process for the industry.
Products & Services
Vodafone and Celfocus tackle AI‑based automation for IoT
Former Vodafone Portugal investment Celfocus has taken on its fourth cognitive automation project for the Group Network Operations (GNO) organisation. Further solutions and use-cases are already being explored to reap benefits of automation throughout the Group.
Partnerships & Alliances
Open Telekom Cloud goes full Circle
T‑Systems’ infrastructure‑as‑a‑service offering adds Circle partner benefits packages, with spend‑based reward tiers. Not a one‑way street, says Partner Manager Ulf Mayer, who is looking for commitment from customers.
Strategy & Change
‘Fearless’ Mehta out to power rapid change at BT
New CDIO committed to radical cultural change, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit, and a willingness to embrace the risk of failure. BT’s slow start on digital transformation an opportunity to leapfrog a generation of innovation. Group CEO Jansen’s persuasiveness key to convincing Mehta of BT’s potential as a TechCo.
People
T-Systems CTO takes the helm on Gaia-X board
Maximilian Ahrens elected Chairman along with first board of directors. First Gaia-X services expected by end of 2021. Another sign of Deutsche Telekom’s support for the initiative.
Partnerships & Alliances
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.