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April 12, 2019
22:46
US pledges billions in fresh 5G push
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US operators appeared set to receive a substantial infusion of government funds to fuel their 5G plans, but will have to wait until the end of the year to get their hands on a fresh tranche of mmWave spectrum deemed critical to winning a global race to deploy the next-generation tech. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai (pictured) unveiled plans to launch a new $20.4 billion subsidy programme to support broadband deployments in rural regions. Over the next decade, he said the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund will distribute monies to help companies finance construction of new fibre infrastructure with the aim of connecting up to 4 million rural homes and laying a foundation for future 5G sites. Pai also announced a third mmWave auction, covering licences in the 37GHz; 39GHz; and 47GHz bands, will commence on 10 December. The proceeding will offer largest amount of spectrum (3,400MHz) ever auctioned at one time in the nation’s history, following sales in the 24GHz [1] and 28GHz [2] bands held earlier in the year. He explained the moves form part of the FCC’s so-called 5G Fast plan, to help the US beat China and other markets to the punch on the technology. Commenting on the moves, US President Donald Trump said the race to 5G is one "America must win.” He added: "5G networks must be secured, they must be strong…they must also cover every community and they must be deployed as soon as possible." Criticism But Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel blasted the FCC’s focus on mmWave spectrum as impractical for widespread deployments and isolating on the world stage. In an FCC meeting, she said the US is “increasingly alone in our mission to make mmWave the core of our domestic 5G approach”. Without a “pivot to mid-band” frequencies favoured elsewhere, she warned the US could lose its influence over the global supply chain: “This means less scale, higher cost, interoperability challenges and less security as other nations’ technologies proliferate”. Rosenworcel also sharply criticised the Trump adminsitration’s 5G policies, stating in a Twitter post its interventions have “done more harm than good”. “From imposing tariffs on 5G equipment, to alienating allies on 5G security, to falling behind the rest of the world on critical mid-band spectrum, it has yet to offer a workable plan for US leadership.” [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
17:37
Safaricom tools-up agents in fake cash fight
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Safaricom unveiled plans to distribute currency checking equipment to m-Pesa agents to combat money laundering and prevent fake currency being deposited into mobile money accounts, Business Daily reported. In an interview with the publication, the operator’s chief corporate security officer Nicholas Mulila said its whole agent network would receive cash scanners and training on how to use them to identify fake or suspect notes. He added all agents will receive the kit by the end of the year and the move is part of its "effort to fight the flow of fake currency”. The move will also help protect its agents against losses incurred by accepting deposits of counterfeit notes, as many currently lack the ability to test it. By the end of December 2018 there were 198,234 mobile money agents in Kenya, the vast majority of these offer transactions into and out of Safaricom's m-Pesa platform.
14:28
DoT conditionally approves Airtel, Tata deal
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India’s Department of Telecommunications approved a Bharti Airtel acquisition of Tata Teleservices' consumer mobile business on the condition it secures bank guarantees of INR90 billion ($1.3 billion) to cover spectrum charges, The Economic Times reported. The newspaper reported the sum covers one-off spectrum costs and some deferred charges, however it does not include provision for any future licence fees. Once the guarantees are in place, telecom minister Manoj Sinha will reportedly wave the deal through. Over the last 18 months several other regulators, including the Competition Commission of India and Security Exchange Board of India, have already given the green light. If fully approved, Airtel will acquire Tata Sons' business units Tata Teleservices and Tata Teleservices Maharashtra, merging these with its main operation. In addition to increasing its customer base, the acquisition will boost Airtel’s fixed fibre footprint and 4G-suitable spectrum allocation. The proposed deal was first announced in October 2017 [1] and came at a time when a number of operators were cutting costs and combining operations following the disruptive entry of low cost rival Reliance Jio. [1] [https:]
14:19
Mobile Mix: 5G NABs the headlines
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This week Chris heads to 5G Realised in London, where the UK's four operators got together with regulators to chew over the issues standing in the way of 5G. Special guest Paolo Pescatore reports from broadcast, media and entertainment show NAB in Las Vegas, and Saleha rounds-up the headlines.
13:59
MTN Nigeria scores a spectrum win
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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved the transfer of 800MHz spectrum to MTN Group, which had been withheld while a public inquiry into the operator's 2015 acquisition of Visafone Communications took place, Bloomberg reported. MTN's acquisition has been a topic of debate in Nigeria for years [1] due to the 800MHz spectrum holding. While other frequencies are available for operators in the country to buy, these are in higher bands, meaning they do not offer the same benefits in terms of coverage. In June 2018 [2] Airtel and 9mobile opposed the transfer of licences and resources from Visafone Communications to MTN Nigeria. Airtel said the move would allow its rival to extend its market dominance beyond the voice segment and care should be taken not to create a monopoly. Olusola Teniola, president of the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria, told Bloomberg the NCC's decision to approve the spectrum transfer will enable MTN Nigeria to expand the reach of its network, mooting rural and unconnected areas as potential beneficiaries. “MTN is a dominant player in the voice segment and obviously they would like to ensure that they hold a leadership position in the data space,” Teniola said. “Any operator that has the kind of spectrum that MTN holds is in a good position to lead the market.” The operator faces other battles in the country: in January, it agreed to pay [3] $53 million to settle a dispute with the Central Bank involving improperly repatriated funds. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
13:42
Uber admits it may never be profitable
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Debt-laden Uber warned operating expenses would rise significantly in the foreseeable future, but talked-up potential growth in core business lines, as it put forward its case for investment in its forthcoming IPO. In its prospectus, the company revealed between its founding in 2009 and the end of 2018 it accumulated debt of $7.9 billion. In 2018 alone, it recorded a loss before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation of $1.8 billion (albeit this was down from a $2.6 billion loss in 2017). Among the many risk factors cited in the document, Uber warned it operated in very competitive sectors and faced a number of potentially damaging regulatory issues. It added the company may never actually be profitable. Potential issues include pressure in some countries to have the role of drivers redefined as employees rather than contract workers and uncertainty related to a deal to acquire Middle East rival Careem [1]. Although it didn’t reveal the estimated price of shares or how much it hoped to raise, CNBC and other US news outlets estimated it will sell $10 billion worth of stock in the listing and achieve a corporate valuation of around $100 billion. In his pitch to potential investors CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said over the last 18 months the company had “improved its governance and board oversight, built a stronger and more cohesive management team and made changes necessary to ensure our company culture rewards teamwork and encourages employees to commit for the long term.” He also warned the company would not “shy away” from making short-term financial sacrifices for long-term gain. [1] [https:]
10:29
Apple, Google face Dutch probe
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Dutch regulators launched an investigation into whether Apple abused the dominant position of its App Store to give favourable treatment to its own apps, adding the probe could expand to include Google’s practices. The Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM) said it took action after a report it commissioned into the apps market concluded there were “no realistic alternatives” to the App Store and Play store, giving Apple and Google the ability to set unfair conditions. ACM board member Henk Don said in a statement regulators honed in on Apple after the study indicated it abuses its dominant position. “To a large degree, app providers depend on Apple and Google for offering apps to users…That is why ACM sees sufficient reason for launching a follow-up investigation, on the basis of competition law.” Findings In the study, app providers told ACM it is difficult to compete against Apple’s own apps and those Google installs on Android devices. Developers also cited the required use of Apple and Google’s payment systems for in-app purchases; Apple’s levy of a 30 per cent commission on digital subscription revenue; and an inability to use all of an iPhone’s functionalities for their apps. ACM called on app providers to share problems they’ve experienced with either the App Store or Play Store, noting it would use the information as part of its probe.
10:21
Spark fined over fair trade breaches
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New Zealand operator Spark was fined NZD675,000 ($454,536) for making false or misleading claims in customer bills, breaching the country’s fair trading act. The operator admitted guilt in November 2018, after the New Zealand Commerce Commission (NZCC) took legal action. In a statement, Spark said the billing issue related to a 30-day notice period for departing customers, and the incorrect implementation of a NZD100 credit for customers signing-up for its fibre broadband service. The incidents occurred between June 2014 and December 2017. A judge said the billing issue required commercial penalties, but accepted Spark's conduct over the fibre credit was simply an error of omission. In addition to the fine, NZCC issued a warning to Spark regarding a failure to correctly apply a NZD300 welcome credit to the accounts of eligible customers. The billing problem resulted in nearly 72,000 customers overpaying by a total of NZD6.6 million, NZCC commissioner Anna Rawlings noted. “Spark failed to take necessary steps to ensure its invoices were accurate. More than 7,000 customers still remain out of pocket despite refunds being made to a large number of others who were affected.” “It is vital businesses clearly disclose the terms of any offers made when marketing their products.” Spark said it fully cooperated with the commission about the incidents, which it claimed resulted from mistakes with no malicious intent. In a statement it said it "sincerely regrets the impact on customers and has taken all practicable steps to refund those customers who were billed incorrectly or did not receive their welcome credit". It said the outcome of the case does not impact its fiscal 2019 guidance.
10:09
Thai PM moves to boost spectrum sale support
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Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha granted mobile operators extensions for paying their spectrum licensing fees, The Nation reported, an apparent bid to drum up interest in a much-delayed 700MHz spectrum auction. Using a special power available under the interim constitution, he extended the payment terms from four annual installments to ten equal payments. AIS and True Move were originally required to make their final THB60 billion ($1.9 billion) payments for their 900MHz spectrum licences in 2020, while dtac’s last payment of THB30 billion was due in 2022. The operators, however, are then required to participate in a 700MHz spectrum auction [1] planned for later this year. True Move previously indicated it does not plan to take part in the sale [2]. Included in the order is an option for digital TV broadcasters to exit the market by returning their licences to the broadcast regulator, The Nation said, adding the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) expects up to four comanies to do so. Relief requested In 2018 NBTC asked the prime minister to ease the 4G licence payment terms of AIS and True Move by giving them five-year extensions to pay for 900MHz spectrum. The proposal drew sharp criticism [3] and prompted dtac to request a similar extension in the next 900MHz spectrum auction. AIS and True Move had pushed for extensions on their 900MHz licences since 2017 and indicated they would not be able to join future auctions, specifically the sale of 5G spectrum, due to their high debt burdens. Dtac acquired 10MHz of 900MHz spectrum [4] for THB38 billion in an uncontested auction in October 2018. The payment terms were unchanged from 2016 when AIS and True Move obtained their licences. Somkiat Tangkitvanich, president of the Thailand Development and Research Institute, criticised the order, Bangkok Post reported. He argued the move “helped the operators at the expense of the public” and wasn’t necessary as the operators are profitable, citing a forecast estimating each operator would reap a THB8 billion benefit as a result. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:]
9:25
SKT takes on digital ad company
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South Korea mobile operator SK Telecom (SKT) acquired a controlling stake in digital advertising company Incross for KRW53.5 billion ($46.9 million), a move aimed at enhancing its digital media capabilities. The operator purchased a 34.6 per cent stake NHN Entertainment held in Incross, which SKT described as a leader in the digital media industry. In a statement, the operator said combining its technology with "the targeted advertising capabilities of Incross, we will grow into a digital marketing provider that maximises the satisfaction of our advertisers.” Through the acquisition, SKT said it plans to respond to the rapidly changing trends in digital advertising and to integrate its various information and communication technologies to strengthen synergies with its existing businesses, including media and commerce. Incross generated revenue of KRW226 billion and operating profit of KRW11.1 billion in 2018. The company has its own R&D capabilities and runs the advertising network Dawin, which SKT said was the first in Korea to bundle video media and sell it to advertisers.
April 11, 2019
19:25
Top Apple suppliers clean up their act
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Apple hailed progress in its green energy initiative, stating a total of 44 suppliers are now committed to clean energy practices, including key partners Hon Hai Precision Industry (Foxconn) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). The count of companies participating in the programme nearly doubled year-on-year from 23 in April 2018. Participants pledged to use renewable energy sources including wind and solar, derived either from internal projects or third-party agreements. Foxconn is responsible for assembling Apple’s signature iPhones, while TSMC produces the A-series chips used in its mobile devices. Lisa Jackson, Apple’s VP of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives, told Reuters securing the companies was a key win, as it “took a while” to get them on board. Apple already uses 100 percent renewable energy to power its global retail stores, offices and data centres, but noted manufacturing makes up the vast majority (74 per cent) of its carbon footprint. In a statement, Jackson said the company “made it a priority to hold our suppliers accountable to the same environmental standards we observe and hope that our collaboration will show others what is possible”.
17:23
Nigeria establishes mobile money agents loan scheme
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The Central Bank of Nigeria announced it would facilitate loans of up to NGN500 million ($1.4 million) to mobile money agents and registered companies in the sector as part of a plan to boost financial inclusion. Loan terms will be up to ten years, with a proportion of the funds provided by outside investors. Interest rates will be 5 per cent per annum. Larger mobile money vendor networks will be eligible to apply alongside registered members of the Super Agent scheme, which comprises companies allowed to sell services without a full banking licence. Applicants must fulfil a list of other criteria including: not have any “non-performing facility” within the business; holding existing assets in at least ten states; having six months-worth of transaction data; and full compliance with relevant financial system rules. The Central Bank said the policy would “enhance the capacity of the operators to roll out more financial access points across the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, particularly in the financially excluded locations”. “Efforts by various governments, policy makers and regulators to increase access to finance have not yielded the desired result.” The document detailing the loan provision was created at the end of 2018 as part of the country’s wider Shared Agent Network Expansion Facility [1] initiative, but only made public this month. [1] [https:]
16:51
App market sees bumper Q1
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More than 30 billion apps were downloaded from Google Play and Apple’s App Store in Q1, up 10 per cent year-on-year and the largest quarter ever, App Annie figures showed. During the period, Google Play extended its download lead over App Store store, fuelled by emerging markets and growth in Auto & Vehicle and Entertainment apps. While India, Indonesia and Brazil continued to drive year-on-year download demand, Egypt and Pakistan also saw “meaningful” growth. App Annie noted Brazil was also a contributor to iOS download growth, although mature markets including the US, Japan, South Korea and Germany were the biggest drivers. But downloads in China softened, which was attributed to game licensing freezes [1]. Income In terms of cash, Q1 was “the most lucrative to date” for both Google Play and the App Store, passing the 2018 holiday season. While iOS maintained a nearly two-times lead over the Google store, the latter still registered 25 per cent growth year-on-year. For Google Play, the US, Japan, South Korea, Germany and Taiwan were the largest contributors to growth, collectively making up 70 per cent of total spend during the period. But App Annie noted Russia and Indonesia made “meaningful strides”, and publishers were advised to watch these markets for potential expansion opportunities. China, US, Japan, Taiwan and UK were large contributors to iOS growth, accounting for 80 per cent of iOS spend. Hong Kong and France were also cited. App Annie also said it saw similar trends in Q1 2019 as for 2018 in terms of the top titles. “Hyper casual and hard core games” continued to be in high demand and was said to represent mobile’s advantages and growth opportunities. “Widespread accessibility and powerful devices capable of facilitating seamless gaming experiences that rival consoles and PCs/Macs.” Video and social are also important both in terms of downloads and value. Dating app Tinder took top spot for consumer spend on non-gaming apps for the first time, which was attributed to both its own strong year-on-year numbers and Neflix no longer taking on new subscriptions on the app stores. [1] [https:]
16:13
Snap hits back at bleak forecast
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Snap blasted an eMarketer prediction it would lose US Snapchat users for the first time in 2019, branding the research company's methodology as flawed. In a report, eMarketer forecast monthly users will drop 2.8 per cent to 77.5 million, noting the decline reverses its previous expectation that Snapchat's users would grow 6.6 per cent to 90.4 million. A Snap representative told Mobile World Live: “The report does not factor in key recent developments at Snap, such as our revamped Android app, or reference our statement in February that we do not anticipate a sequential decline in our daily active user total in Q1 2019." "Its user forecast is more than 10 million off from Snap’s publicly-available reach on our ad buying tool; its thesis is narrowly focused on the app redesign from over one year ago; and its methodology draws on self-reported survey data that’s unreliable in our core 13 to 34 year-old demographic." Forecast eMarketer predicted Snapchat's user growth is likely to plateau in 2020, with the service expected to add only 600,000 users in the US between 2019 and 2023. Snap's resdesigned app faced much backlash, harming its user numbers [1]. It appears a slate of recently-announced new products [2] and original shows may not immediately reverse this, though eMarketer senior analyst Jasmine Enberg was optimistic, stating the updates "may improve user engagement and time spent, particularly among its core young user base." But, she also noted "increased competition from new and existing social platforms is partly to blame for Snapchat’s decline". eMarketer predicted Snapchat's share of overall US social network users will stand at 37.9 per cent this year, compared with almost 40 per cent in 2018. Rival Instagram was expected to be the main beneficiary, with user numbers tipped to grow 6.2 per cent year-on-year to 106.7 million in 2019. The Facebook-owned service is also forecast to add almost 19 million users in the US by 2023. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
13:31
French industry shrugs-off German 5G model
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A top French politician confirmed the country will not follow Germany's model for issuing 5G frequencies, because its industrial players have shown no appetite for acquiring private licences. Secretary of state to the Minister of Economy and Finance Agnes Pannier-Runacher told Agence France-Presse the lack of clear demand for private 5G spectrum means there would be no allocation reserved for third parties. Instead, French operators will be granted exclusive rights to 5G frequencies. The policy is vastly different from Germany, which has controversially kept back [1] a sizable chunk of spectrum to allocate to industrial giants in the country. The move was one of the many grievances [2] lodged by operators about the 5G spectrum allocation process. Last month Deutsche Telekom CEO Timotheus Hoettges blamed the fact a quarter of available 5G spectrum was not being sold in Germany's ongoing auction for creating an artificial shortage. Ultimately, he argued this would raise prices and leave operators short of cash [3] for network construction. While there is apparently no demand in France, industrial players in Germany are reportedly eager to apply for local 5G licences. Reuters reported Volkswagen, BASF, Daimler and Siemens were among the companies interested. German regulator Bundesnetzagentur plans to allocate local licences in the second half of 2019. In a statement last month its president Jochen Homann said allocating the frequencies directly to industry allowed the networks to be “built exactly to the needs of the companies.” In addition to the oft-cited connected factory use case, the regulator believes licences could benefit the agriculture and forestry sectors. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
12:49
Telefonica doubles down on IoT security
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Telefonica launched its IoT Cybersecurity Unit to address threats the operator anticipates will increase as more and more devices are connected to the internet, and also look to boost IoT implementation. “On the one hand, this unit will strive to expand the existing catalogue of IoT products and services offered to customers and, on the other hand, to develop new IoT security solutions to cater to the existing and emerging threats faced by businesses deploying IoT,” the company said in a statement. The unit will use Telefonica’s existing network infrastructure and the Kite Platform, an IoT connectivity management platform that allows businesses to improve efficiencies while reducing costs. As part of the new initiative, Telefonica (via its ElevenPaths cybersecurity unit) expanded a collaboration with Subex, a company specialising in analytic solutions. The parties will analyse data traffic generated by IoT devices to detect threats. Vinod Kumar, CEO of Subex said: “Amidst all kinds of attacks by cybercriminals and other groups, we want to protect the ecosystem and ensure that IoT projects deliver value. I am confident that IoT businesses will derive significant benefits from our joint efforts”. The IoT Cybersecurity Unit will also offer management of secure credentials for devices and DNS security. In February, the European Telecommunications Standards Institute, of which Telefonica is a member, released what it described [1] as the first globally-acceptable security standard for consumer IoT devices. [1] [https:]
12:25
Google takes flak for violent child apps
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Apps marked safe for children on Google’s Play Store, some of which have been downloaded millions of times, contain violence and disturbing images, Wired reported. The news outlet stated problems include games laden with guns, knives, "gore" and gambling, with parental controls apparently having little impact. Wired sent Google a sample of 36 games with content it deemed not in line with Play Store age ratings, with a further 16 featuring “dubious content and permissions" some of which tracked location. A total of 16 of these titles have since been removed or had their ratings and permissions revised. Google hit back, with a representative telling Mobile World Live: "When we find that an app has violated our policies, we remove it from Google Play. We want children to be safe online and we work hard to help protect them." "Apps in our Designed for Families Programme must follow more stringent requirements including content and advertising restrictions, and provide a declaration that they comply with all applicable privacy laws. We take action on any policy violations that we find." However, Wired stated it's not the apps in the Designed for Families scheme that were of concern, but rather those which don't come under that banner. Not strict enough It was worried Google doesn't have a stringent system to assign a rating to a game, noting Apple and Nintendo have someone manually review each title. Google on the other hand lacks a “robust, human-monitored system”, with age ratings assigned automatically after developers complete a questionnaire. The implication is unscrupulous developers may provide misleading answers to gain a child-friendly rating, and so boost downloads and earnings. Its not just violence that’s the problem, though. A cosmetic surgery simulator app or ones involving gambling with no actual payout may be considered inappropriate for children, but because they don't have outright violence they will be rated as suitable for all. Earlier this year Google-owned YouTube for Kids came under fire [1] for containing disturbing content related to school shootings and suicide. [1] [https:]
12:18
Dish chair tables 5G recipe
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Dish Network chairman Charlie Ergen outlined a number of approaches the company is considering to recoup massive investments in IoT and 5G networks, with rural operator deals one of the frontrunners. Speaking at a Competitive Carriers Association event, Ergen argued Dish Network offers a key advantage to potential partners: “Because we’re going to be virtualised and because we’ll be in the cloud for the most part…in our network you should be able to just lease a slice of our spectrum and it [will] look like yours.” Ergen noted the company is currently constructing a NB-IoT network, which is scheduled for completion by March 2020, and said it is already planning for 5G, with fixed wireless access being considered among other potential business models. The company recently invested in Tarana Wireless [1], which is building a fixed wireless access product designed to provide coverage over a range of 40 miles. Though the technology is yet to be field tested, Ergen said it could provide Dish Network with an avenue to offer a cost-effective triple-play bundle of mobility, video and broadband services. Outside the box Ergen added the company is toying with other ideas, such as a model for network access where connectivity can be purchased in short stints and costs rise with demand. He flagged rural regions as a key area of focus for its 5G efforts given the crowded competitive environment in urban areas and sought to lure potential partners to the table by noting "we can be a path for you to 5G”. Company executives previously said Dish Network plans to spend up to $1 billion on its NB-IoT network [2] and as much as $10 billion on construction of its 5G network. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
9:15
Axiata faces ticking clock over Ncell tax bill
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Nepal’s Supreme Court progressed a capital gains tax demand againt Malaysia-based Axiata Group relating to its acquisition of Ncell in 2016 [1] , with an order for the country's Large Taxpayers Office to determine the sum owed within three months. In a statement, Axiata Group noted the order was handed down earlier this week and directs the tax office to hold the company and Ncell liable. The Supreme Court "also indicated that distribution of dividends" and approval for the sale of any Ncell shares "should not be granted until the tax obligation is satisfied". Local media suggested the tax bill could amount to NPR61 billion ($549 million. The Supreme Court issued the order almost two months after ruling in favour [2] of a public interest litigation action. Specifically, the tax payment relates to an acquisition of Reynolds Holdings, which held an 80 per cent stake in Ncell, by Axiata Group subsidiary Axiata UK. Sunivera Capital holds the remaining 20 per cent direct local shareholding, as required by law. Axiata Group said it and Ncell are reviewing the court decision, adding they “dutifully and responsibly complied with all relevant regulatory and legal requirements in relation to the transaction”. Ncell is the largest mobile operator in Nepal, with a 40 per cent market share by subscribers. In the filing, it said it is Nepal’s largest taxpayer, contributing NPR126 billion in taxes since 2014. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
8:22
Japan operators earmark $14B for 5G rollouts
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Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications allocated 5G spectrum to the country’s three incumbent mobile operators and newcomer Rakuten Mobile, after reviewing applications which revealed they plan to invest a combined JPY1.6 trillion ($14.4 billion) to deploy the technology over the next five years, Nikkei Asian Review reported. Market leader NTT Docomo earmarked JPY795 billion, while number two KDDI plans to invest more than JPY466 billion, the newspaper said. SoftBank lined up a JPY206 billion investment, while Rakuten in a statement said it expected to invest JPY200 million "at most". The allocation of spectrum in the 3.7GHz and 28GHz bands comes around a week after mobile operators in South Korea [1] and Verizon [2] in the US launched mobile 5G service to consumers. Japanese operators are required to install 5G base stations in half of 4,500 blocks, or districts, established by the ministry within five years, Nikkei Asian Review said. Docomo and KDDI both target 90 per cent coverage by 2024; SoftBank and Rakuten are aiming for 64 per cent and 56 per cent respectively. All four operators are targeting the launch of mobile 5G services sometime in 2020. In December 2018 they stated they have no plans to deploy gear from Huawei and ZTE [3] in the networks, following a ban on the use of Chinese telecoms equipment by government agencies in the country. Docomo, KDDI and SoftBank are also working toward launching limited commercial 5G services in 2019 [4], with pilots due to take place at the Rugby World Cup. Rakuten Mobile started construction of its network in August 2018 and plans to launch 4G service in October [5]. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:] [5] [https:]
April 10, 2019
18:47
EU body dismisses US, South Korea 5G launches
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LIVE FROM 5G REALISED, LONDON: European Commission-backed body the 5G Infrastructure Association, dismissed recent 5G launches by operators in South Korea [1] and the US [2] as little more than fluffed up LTE, with the networks unable to support any exciting use cases. Citing the long development cycle needed for network launch, chairman of the group Colin Willcock (pictured) questioned what exactly was launched, “because it sure as anything isn’t the latest version of the standard”. “These people who think Europe is behind, it’s not about who deploys first...it’s about who deploys best. Best means [being] able to support the exciting uses; the healthcare; the media; the automotive. Is that what’s being deployed today? No, it’s massive broadband, that’s LTE with new shoes.” The comments follow a number of warnings over the last year stating Europe is lagging on 5G [3] compared with markets already launching the technology including the US and South Korea. He emphasised the need for Europe to focus on “full 5G”, but conceded there was a value in early launches to prime the market and demonstrate demand for further investment. “If you have a small-scale deployment and show from that the commercial case, then you can prove the investment case and that absolutely makes sense.” “That vision of what 5G can be, the bedrock of a modern digital society will not be created by the systems that will be deployed this year or indeed next year, but a different version of 5G,” Willcock added. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
18:28
T-Mobile makes TV play
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T-Mobile US detailed plans to deploy a rebranded version of its Layer3 TV service in eight markets, ahead of the launch of a mobile TV product later this year. The TVision Home service will cost $100 per month for a set-top box and access to 150 channels, local broadcasts and regional sports, with premium channels including HBO and Starz available for an extra fee. Streaming apps from Pandora, iHeartRadio and a handful of others will be available at launch, but T-Mobile said apps from big name video services including Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime Video are “coming soon”. Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant are incorporated, as is compatibility with smart home devices including Nest security cameras. In a statement, T-Mobile COO Mike Sievert branded the offer “TV built for the 5G era”. Service will be available in Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, Philadephia, San Francisco, Washington DC, and Longmont, Colorado from 14 April. Evolution Sceptics noted the TVision Home proposition looks and costs much the same as a typical cable bundle. But T-Mobile defended, noting it is the beginning of a push to challenge the cable industry with a service compatible “with the apps and hardware and services people already use”. It plans to launch the service on third-party platforms in the future to eliminate the need for its own set-top box. Additionally, it reiterated plans to launch a nationwide mobile TV service later in 2019 [1]. In a research note, Wells Fargo Securities analysts said while the mobile service will pitch T-Mobile into an “increasingly crowded field” of streaming services, it could potentially find success by tapping its “loyal wireless customer base”. The investment bank added it doesn’t believe T-Mobile will back away from its TV ambitions if a proposed merger with Sprint fails, pointing out the operator acquired Layer3 TV [2] well before it announced the tie up. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
17:06
UK regulator praises 5G progress
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LIVE FROM 5G REALISED, LONDON: Ofcom conceded UK operator concerns around 5G regulation remain a concern, but hailed broader swift progress being made towards launching the next-generation technology. Mansoor Hanif, CTO of the regulator (pictured), admitted earlier comments by operators regarding barriers hampering deployment efforts [1] means there needed to be government decisions made on some issues “pretty quickly”. However, in a presentation, he stated the country is making good progress in the global race to 5G, noting that the country which was the 54th to launch 4G would be in the first wave to have the new network technology. Hanif rebuked calls from 3 UK COO Graham Baxter not to impose coverage obligations in a spectrum auction in 2020, stating 5G “had to be fair for everyone” with a possibility of offering financial incentives to companies willing to roll out in remote areas. “We’re trying to get a fair outcome, not earn a certain amount of money for the exchequer,” he added. Hanif said there was also a need to investigate a number of innovative technological solutions which could help coverage provision. These include Massive MIMO antennas on top of existing broadcast towers and satellite solutions. Commenting on a spate of announcements by companies developing 5G over satellite, he expects greater cooperation between operators and these new players, especially when it comes to areas where coverage provision is more difficult. This was despite “a lot of friction between satellite and terrestrial industries in the past”. [1] [https:]
16:42
Oppo debuts 10x zoom smartphone
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Oppo officially unveiled its Reno smartphone line, which debuts the company’s 10x optical zoom imaging technology and features a pop-up selfie camera to obviate a screen notch. Positioning Reno as a new series, the company unveiled two devices at an event in China: the 10x Zoom Edition, which features the advanced imaging technology [1]; and Standard Edition, offering a simpler camera set-up and slightly more modest specs. Additionally, Oppo previewed a 5G Reno smartphone: it was also shown at a separate Swisscom event [2] held today (10 April), which placed availability in May for CHF999 ($998) price tag. This also features the 10x zoom. While pop-up cameras are not a new development, Reno has a “wedge”-design which conceals the 16MP selfie camera, a front “soft light” and flash for the rear camera. Reports state the company said the motorised part will last for five years (at up to 100 openings per day) and includes fall detection to close and protect in case of a drop. The lack of a front facing camera notch or cutout means Oppo achieved a 93.1 per cent screen-to-body ratio. [3]Features Reno 10x Zoom Edition sports 48MP main, 13MP zoom and 8MP wide angle cameras, offering focal lengths from 16mm to 160mm. It features a 6.6-inch full HD screen and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 chip. Reno Standard Edition comes with a 48MP camera without optical stabilisation, paired with a 5MP depth camera; a 6.4-inch screen; and Snapdragon 710 processor. Engadget wrote Reno Standard Edition pricing starts at CNY2,999 ($446) with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, climbing to CNY3,599 for an 8GB/256GB version. Reno 10x Zoom Edition starts at CNY3,999 and climbs to CNY4,799 for the same RAM/storage options. Reno Standard Edition will be available in China next week, with Reno 10x Zoom Edition following in May 2019. Wider international rollouts are also expected. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
16:18
Samsung showcases swivel camera Galaxy A80
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Samsung added to its Galaxy A-series product line with the introduction of a novel camera arrangement in the Galaxy A80 designed to address the ongoing notch challenge. The device has a slider form factor but, rather than having a separate front camera array, has a module which rotates from rear-facing to forward when device is opened. This also has the advantage of giving the same quality imaging whichever way the cameras are facing, without the need for duplicate hardware. Galaxy A80 has a 48MP main camera, with secondary 8MP ultra wide camera, and 3D depth sensor. The rotating camera arrangement means there are no notches or cut outs in the 6.7-inch full HD screen. The device also has Dolby Atmos audio technology to enhance audio when using earphones or Bluetooth speakers. Featuring a 3700mAh battery with super-fast charging, the company said Galaxy A80 also includes intelligent battery technology to learn daily routines and app usage patterns to optimise power consumption. Powered by an octacore processor, it offers 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, with no expansion option. Galaxy A80 is available in three colours: angel gold, which is said to include “elements of pink”; ghost white, which has “some blue characteristics”; and phantom black, which is black. Samsung made a number of updates to the Galaxy A-series [1], which is the more mid-tier sibling to the Galaxy S and Galaxy Note flagship lines, in recent months. [1] [https:]
15:00
Une commission du parlement européen rejette la voiture connectée par Wi-Fi
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La Commission transport et tourisme (Tran) du Parlement Européen a demandé le 9 avril le rejet d’une proposition controversée visant à utiliser une technologie basée sur la Wi-Fi comme principal système de communication pour les voitures connectées. Avant le vote du Parlement Européen la semaine prochaine, le vice-président de la Tran, Dominique Riquet, a demandé le rejet de la proposition de la CE au motif qu’elle va « à l’encontre du principe de neutralité technologique », ajoutant qu’il existait de sérieux doutes quant à la sélection du système. « Personne d’autre dans le monde n’a fait ce choix, a précisé Dominique Riquet. La Chine, la Corée du Sud et le Japon ont opté pour une autre technologie, et les États-Unis ont respecté la neutralité. » D’autres parlementaires européens ont répondu que la proposition de la CE est équitable et présente l’avantage de s’appuyer sur une technologie déjà disponible, permettant un déploiement plus rapide et des bénéfices plus immédiats pour la sécurité routière. Annoncée en mars, la décision de la CE en faveur d’un système basé sur la Wi-Fi au détriment d’une technologie cellulaire a causé une levée de bouclier dans l’industrie du mobile. Tant la GSMA que l’ETNO (European Telecommunications Network Operators’ Association) ont enjoint les autres instances législatives de l’UE à rejeter la proposition de la CE. Dans une lettre commune aux parlementaires et aux autorités européennes envoyée la semaine passée, GSMA et ETNO ont affirmé que le choix de protocoles basés sur le système Wi-Fi 802.11p n’offrirait aux citoyens européens « qu’une technologie inférieure, que seul un petit nombre de fabricant de voitures ont l’intention de déployer ».
14:58
Le chef de l’UIT évoque des motifs politiques dans la polémique sur Huawei
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Houlin Zhao, secrétaire général de l’Union Internationale des Télécoms (UIT), a fait irruption le 8 avril dans le débat sur Huawei, expliquant que la société chinoise devrait bénéficier des mêmes opportunités commerciales que ses concurrentes au vu du manque de preuves tangibles supportant les accusations portées contre elle, selon Reuters. Dans le cadre d’une conférence tenue à Genève, Houlin Zhao a expliqué que la sécurité de la 5G était dans l’intérêt de tous et a enjoint les autorités les plus critiques vis-à-vis d’Huawei à intenter des poursuites contre le fabricant s’ils trouvaient quoi que ce soit de problématique dans ses équipements. Houlin Zhao a ajouté qu’il n’existait actuellement aucune preuve tangible contre Huawei et que les accusations reposaient plus sur des manœuvres commerciales et politiques. Pendant la session, M.Zhao a rappelé que la priorité des opérateurs de télécommunications doit être de s’assurer que leur équipement réseau est sûr afin d’éviter les foudres des autorités nationales en cas de découvertes de problèmes.
14:57
Des pays balkaniques s’accordent sur l’abandon des charges d’itinérance
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Les gouvernements de plusieurs pays des Balkans non membres de l’Union Européenne ont signé le 5 avril un accord destiné à abolir en juillet 2021 les charges d’itinérance, se rapprochant ainsi des réglementations de l’UE. Lors du Sommet Numérique des Balkans Occidentaux, des représentants de la Serbie, du Monténégro, de la Macédoine du Nord, de la Bosnie-Herzégovine, de l’Albanie et du Kosovo se sont mis d’accord afin de réduire progressivement les charges avant leur suppression. Dans un communiqué présentant l’accord, le gouvernement serbe explique que les charges appliquées au consommateur seront réduites en moyenne de 27 % à compter du 1er juillet 2019 pour les communications entre la Serbie, le Monténégro, la Macédoine du Nord et la Bosnie-Herzégovine. Les charges entre l’Albanie et les autres pays impliquées seront réduites de 85 % à la même date. Selon EUActiv et d’autres médias, l’accord couvrirait également le Kosovo, bien que la Serbie, qui ne reconnaît pas son indépendance, n’en fasse pas mention. A partir de juillet 2019, les utilisateurs de mobiles itinérants paieront un supplément équivalent à 19 centimes d’euro la minute pour un appel vocal, 5 centimes par SMS et 18 centimes par Mo de données. L’accord a été annoncé parallèlement par Mariya Gabriel, commissaire européenne pour l’économie et la société numérique, et Johannes Hahn, commissaire à l’élargissement et à la politique européenne de voisinage. L’Albanie, le Monténégro, la Macédoine du Nord et la Serbie sont tous candidats à l’entrée dans l’UE et procèdent actuellement à l’intégration de la législation de l’Union dans leurs lois nationales, pré-requis indispensable lors de toute demande d’adhésion. La Bosnie-Herzégovine et le Kosovo apparaissent également comme des candidats potentiels.
14:56
Google dissous son comité d’éthique sur l’IA
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Moins de deux mois après l’avoir fondé, Google a annoncé le 4 avril la dissolution d’un groupe consultatif indépendant destiné à réfléchir sur les questions éthique posées par l’Intelligence Artificielle, après le déclenchement de polémiques sur l’identité de ses membres. L’Advanced Technology External Advisory Council (ATEAC) a été formé afin de se pencher sur les défis éthiques liés à l’utilisation de technologies comme l’IA, l’apprentissage automatique et la reconnaissance faciale. Le Conseil réunissait des universitaires, des experts de l’industrie et des personnalités impliquées dans la vie publique. Mais la publication de la liste des membres a immédiatement provoqué des remous, rapportés notamment par l’agence Vox. Une semaine après la présentation de la liste, Alessandro Acquisti, professeur à l’université Carnegie Mellon, a démissionné, expliquant sur Twitter qu’il ne croyait pas que l’ATEAC était le « bon forum » pour discuter de problèmes éthiques clés. Une autre personnalité, Kay Coles James, ex-membre de l’administration de George Bush, a fait l’objet d’une pétition de la part d’employés de Google, qui dénonçaient ses opinions potentiellement controversées sur l’immigration et les droits de la communauté LGBTQ. La présence dans le Conseil d’un représentant d’un fabricant de drones liés à l’armée américaine a également provoqué les protestations de certains commentateurs. Dans un communiqué annonçant la dissolution de l’ATEAC le 4 avril, la direction de Google a expliqué qu’il « est clair que les conditions actuelles, le Conseil ne pourra fonctionner comme nous le souhaitons. Nous y mettons donc fin et nous retournons à la planche à dessin. Nous continuerons à nous montrer responsables dans nos travaux sur les questions importantes posées par l’IA, et nous trouverons des manières différentes de profiter d’avis extérieurs sur ces sujets. »
13:53
Swisscom details bold 5G plans
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Swisscom set out ambitious plans for its commercial 5G launch, detailing strategies for both its network rollout and device availability, although it still awaits a green light for the move. At an event today, CEO Urs Schaeppi (pictured) said: “As soon as we obtain the concession rights we will switch on 5G. Everyone is in the same boat in Switzerland, not just us.” At launch, the network will encompass 100 sites in 50 cities and villages, but Swisscom said it is targeting more than 90 per cent population coverage by the end of the year. The operator is working with Ericsson as its equipment supplier. It indicated it is ready to flick the switch once it receives permits. “Of course, in the beginning this will be used by early adoptors, but it will be enlarged and upgraded, and by the end of the year we will have the whole of Switzerland covered,” Schaeppi said. Devices The first available device will be a version in Oppo’s Reno smartphone line [1], which itself was unveiled today at a separate event in China. Available in May with a CHF999 ($998) price tag, the operator said its existing inOne subscriptions will include 5G, although a CHF10 per month Premium Speed option will also be available. Oppo's device will be followed by smartphones from LG (also from May), Samsung (July) and Huawei (Q3). In a statement, tech giant Qualcomm said a number of the device makers working with Swisscom (Oppo and LG for smartphones; Askey and WNC for in-home equipment) are using its X50 modem [2] technology. Swisscom’s first 5G devices use 3.5GHz spectrum and during a media event speeds of up to 1.86Gb/s were demonstrated. Lower frequency bands will be added to deliver the wider coverage it is targeting. Use cases In a statement, Schaeppi also talked up the potential of 5G for enterprises and his company’s position with this: “The full potential of 5G will initially be exploited by companies. This requires a full-service provider like Swisscom, who combines the possibilities of 5G with the IOT, the cloud or data analytics.” Swisscom and its peers picked up 5G frequencies late in 2018. Rival Sunrise is in the early stages of offering a fixed wireless access service [3]. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
13:14
UK operators still facing 5G barriers
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LIVE FROM 5G REALISED, LONDON: UK operators revealed they were still battling a number of issues in their 5G deployments, highlighting problems with the physical infrastructure, restrictive planning rules and struggles defining the ultimate business case. All four operators, EE owner BT; 3 UK; and the local units of Vodafone and Telefonica, outlined the various challenges they face with rollout of new network technology, with collaboration coming through as one of the primary solutions. Despite the issues all said they expected to meet their previously revealed timelines for 5G launches. BT CTIO Howard Watson (pictured, far right) said: “The challenge in the UK is how do we get national policies working at a local level? We have a highly decentralised set of local governments, when it comes to planning and infrastructure that is a massive barrier.” Representatives from the other three companies also pointed to issues around planning regulations, which have been regularly cited as preventing rapid network rollout [1] in the country. Hard line Graham Baxter, COO of 3 (pictured, second from left), said operators need to be “ruthless in every single way” around costs, urging regulatory changes to reduce fees for connecting rural areas through initiatives such as allowing larger masts and infrastructure sharing. Vodafone UK chief network officer Andrea Dona (pictured, far left) added elsewhere in Europe masts could be built which are 15 metres higher than in the UK. This, he added, was a barrier to providing affordable coverage to many areas. Dona added operators still needed to define how they would sell 5G and which use cases would provide enough revenue to claw back the huge deployment costs. Telefonica UK CTO Brandan O’Reilly (pictured, second from right) said without collaborating with authorities on planning rules "you’re using analogue laws to deliver a digital future”. He added the industry also needed to work together to help rollout, while there was also a need to collaborate with industry to define the right use cases. [1] [https:]
12:47
AT&T refutes report of HBO Europe sale plans
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AT&T issued a strongly worded denial of reports it is considering a sale of the European arm of HBO, which was acquired as part of its broader TimeWarner deal [1] in 2018. In a statement to Mobile World Live, the operator said an article by Financial Times (FT) is "factually incorrect" and it had informed the newspaper of this before it published. John Stankey, CEO of WarnerMedia, noted the organisation doesn't usually "comment on speculation" but was prompted to reply to the FT article "to set the record straight" He said the news "is completely baseless and inaccurate. HBO Europe is a valuable asset for our growth plans in Europe". Debt plan The report in question stated AT&T had been exploring a sale of HBO Europe since November 2018 as part of efforts to reduce its $170 billion debt, but that no formal talks had been held with potential buyers. Sources told FT the operator did not want news of the internal discussions to be made public, fearing it could lead to further defections following the departure of Richard Plepler, chief of HBO for almost three decades, who stepped down in February reportedly due to a culture clash between AT&T and its new media staff. HBO Europe has about 200 employees, with 10 million subscribers to its streaming service across Europe. FT did acknowledge one executive had denied any plans to sell, but noted “the contrasting positions highlight the unrest and turmoil that has followed the combination of two companies with very different corporate cultures…AT&T is a much larger organisation that focuses on efficiencies, while WarnerMedia aspires to creative success." AT&T raised $5 billion [2] through the sale of unsecured bonds in February, as it stepped up efforts to tackle a huge debt load amassed during a period of acquisitions. The operator is preparing to launch a streaming service [3] later this year to take on OTT giants including Netflix, employing its WarnerMedia assets and featuring HBO content. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
11:45
Nokia hit with another automotive patent complaint
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Germany-based automotive components supplier Bury echoed carmaker Daimler by making a complaint to the European Union about Nokia’s patent practices, accusing the tech giant of failing to take a fair approach to licensing. While acknowledging Nokia’s standards essential patents (SEPs) for mobile technology, Bury said the Finnish company refuses to licence mobile components: “Instead, Nokia insists on indirect licensing of the entire vehicle”. With Nokia not owning vehicle-oriented SEPs, it cannot demand indirect licensing of the whole vehicle, the complainant continued. Bury is calling for the licensing of components in accordance with the scope of protection of the patents, to give flexibility to distribute technologies either to manufacturers or via aftermarket sales, which is contrary to exclusive licensing of vehicles. The auto company said that, following its complaint, it “hopes for the reinstitution of fair competition practices in the use of binding mobile telephony standards”. It also said it “represents the interests of other suppliers who find themselves in a similar situation”. Daimler took action against Nokia [1] in March, again related to the licensing of standards essential communications patents to automotive sector customers. The car company argued fair and non-discriminatory access to SEPs is a key factor in the development of connected car products and services. At the time, Nokia said it had been in talks with the automotive sector since 2015, offering “a wide range of options for automakers”. “Despite the meritless accusations by Daimler, our door remains open for constructive dialogue aimed at finding a workable solution for Daimler and others in the automotive sector. We believe there is more to gain for all if we work together,” it continued. [1] [https:]
10:26
Intelligence Brief: Is it time to change mobile tax track?
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April heralds the start of the new fiscal year in many countries around the world, when various new tax rules come into place. One example of a country that has been grappling with new taxes is Romania, where the so-called greed tax ordinance was implemented earlier in the year: it targets bank assets, energy companies and mobile operators. Romanian mobile subscribers will see bills go up as a result of the 3 per cent tax on all telecom operators’ turnover. This is just the latest in a longer-term trend on mobile sector taxation. The mobile sector continues to see further taxes added on by governments in an effort to maximise fiscal revenues. Governments across the world have introduced or increased 120 taxes specific to the sector since 2011. As of 2017, 1.5 billion mobile subscribers in 60 countries were subject to some form of additional taxation on top of general VAT or sales tax: that’s almost 30 per cent of mobile subscribers worldwide. While this might seem like abstract data, there are real consequences. Here are some of the more worrying developments in mobile taxation (you can find more in our recent Rethinking Mobile Taxation to Improve Connectivity report [1]). Uganda: social media tax In 2018, the government introduced a tax of UGX200 ($0.05) to use many online platforms including WhatsApp and Facebook. The Ugandan regulator recently reported that, as a result, internet subscriptions fell by 2.5 million in the three months after the tax was introduced. Sri Lanka: tower tax Original plans for a tower tax in late 2017 included an LKR200,000 ($1,144) tax per tower every month. These plans were watered down by the time the tax was implemented in January 2019: the monthly rate became the yearly rate. Nevertheless, taxing towers will no doubt reduce incentives to roll out networks. Turkey: activation taxes Getting access to a new phone connection has been difficult for a while now: consumers in Turkey pay three different charges before the first MB of data is downloaded. But these charges, the special communication tax, wireless licence fee and wireless usage fee, are inflation-linked and now add up to TRY98 ($17.22) just to get started for the year. It’s no wonder consumer taxes account for more than 60 per cent of the cost of owning a mobile in Turkey (and on top of that there’s a number of operator taxes there including a 15 per cent revenue share). These additional (and complicated) taxes aren’t good for developing a mobile market. Need proof? Since taxes increase the price of owning and using a mobile phone, fewer people are able to afford and use mobile internet services. Charting out the results, we see that consumers in high-tax countries (with red dots in the chart, below, click to enlarge) are charged more than 3.5 per cent of their income in taxes on mobile. In these same countries, mobile internet penetration never exceeds 30 per cent. [2]Of course, there is a reason many developing countries impose high tax burdens on the mobile sector. Where debt levels are higher, governments reach for additional tax payments on the mobile sector to try and fill the fiscal gap. Where that debt is due to be paid back soon, governments’ requirements are even more pressing. And mobile transactions of all types are tempting to tax: the International Labour Organisation estimates 2 billion of the world’s employed population are in the informal economy, with 93 per cent of these workers in emerging and developing countries. Collecting taxes from a significant informal economy is difficult. On the other hand, mobile transactions such as buying SIM cards, handsets, and prepaid top-ups can be identified fairly easily, and therefore are easier to tax. But, as much as this strategy might be popular or easy, it’s a mistake for two key reasons. Taxable base decreases Higher taxes means lower take-up and therefore a decrease in the taxable base, the number of people you are able to tax. So gains by governments in terms of increasing tax rates can be eroded by the lower number of people using mobile. Mobile services can help in formalising the overall economy Person-to-government (P2G) payments using mobile money can be used to collect general taxes from citizens; school fees; health payments; and other official payments, and therefore increase the taxable base. P2G payments are now available in over 30 markets. Inevitably, the debate on mobile taxation will continue with the short-term fiscal requirements of governments being pitted against longer-term sector and economic development. At the same time, governments are developing ambitious digital economy plans. Mobile operators are being asked to simultaneously take on the burden of generating significant tax revenues and invest heavily in infrastructure. Maintaining both roles might turn out to be unsustainable. - Mayuran Sivakumaran - senior economist, GSMA Intelligence The editorial views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and will not necessarily reflect the views of the GSMA, its Members or Associate Members. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
10:01
Qualcomm boosts AI, gaming in mid-tier chips
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Qualcomm debuted three new chips in its Snapdragon 600 and 700 series designed to bring more advanced AI and gaming features to mid-tier devices. The new Snapdragon 730 is the second processor in Qualcomm’s fledgling 700 series [1] following the Snapdragon 710, which was used in Samsung’s Galaxy A8 handset among others. Highlights include a new Kryo 470 CPU and Adreno 618 GPU set-up built using an 8nm manufacturing process; a fourth-generation AI engine and Hexagon 688 DSP for AI acceleration; a Spectra 350 image signal processor; and an integrated graphics library to boost gaming experiences. Connectivity is offered via an X15 LTE modem, though the chip is also compatible with Wi-Fi 6. Qualcomm also released the Snapdragon 730G, a version of the 730 chip designed specifically for gaming offering 15 per cent faster graphics processing, better resolution and stutter reducing features. In the 600 series comes the Snapdragon 665 processor, which features a Kyro 260 CPU with Adreno 610 GPU; third-generation AI engine; Hexagon 686 DSP; Spectra 165 ISP; and X12 LTE modem. Kedar Kondap, Qualcomm VP of product management, said in a statement the chips will bring flagship features including “sophisticated AI, exceptional gaming and advanced camera capabilities to a broad spectrum of devices”. Commercial devices based on Snapdragon 730, 730G and 665 are expected to be available in mid-2019. Reception ABI Research principal analyst Lian Jye Su noted Qualcomm has already built an ecosystem around its AI engine for smartphones and is “well positioned to lead AI democratisation and become a key strategic chipset supplier for many OEMs,” particularly Chinese vendors. He added the key to Qualcomm successfully extending its AI engines to lower smartphone tiers will be keeping app developers and other ecosystem partners “engaged and invested”. The research company forecast shipments of smartphones powered by AI engines will surpass 455 million units in 2023. [1] [https:]
9:39
Telstra exec makes comeback with CFO posting
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Australian operator Telstra appointed former executive Vicki Brady (pictured) as CFO and head of strategy. Brady, who will replace current CFO Robyn Denholm, was group executive of the operator’s Consumer and Small Business unit before taking time off in 2018 for health reasons. She has made a full recovery, Telstra said in a statement. The executive joined Telstra in 2016 and was named head of the unit in September 2017. Denholm announced in November 2018 she would step down [1]to become chairman of the board at electric car maker Tesla. Although the Tesla appointment was effective immediately, her last day with Telstra will be 6 May, following a six-month notice period. Michael Ackland, acting head of the Consumer and Small Business function, will take over as permanent group executive. Brady and Ackland assume their new roles on 1 July. [1] [https:]
9:27
Samsung dominates Korea 5G deployments
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Samsung claimed to have supplied the greatest number of 5G base stations to South Korean operators, which lit their commercial consumer services on 5 April. In a statement, Samsung said it delivered more than 53,000 5G base stations, which would give it a 62 per cent share based on the number of sites the operators said they had deployed when they launched their consumer offering [1]. Market leader SK Telecom claimed 38,000 base stations, KT 30,000 and LG Plus 18,000. The operators state the service is available in 85 cities, though The Korea Herald said about 85 per cent of the 5G base stations were located in six cities including Seoul, Busan and Daegu. Gaining knowledge Cheun Kyungwhoon, head of Samsung’s networks business, said in a statement sent to Mobile World Live that by supplying 5G equipment to all three operators, it learned there are different paths to 5G deployments [2]. For example, he explained one operator transmits aggregated 4G and 5G signals to maximise speeds, while another focuses on 5G to provide minimum latency. He was referring to SK Telecom’s implemention of a dual-connectivity strategy using LTE and 5G networks to achieve peak data rates of more than 2Gb/s. Rival KT, meanwhile, uses either LTE or 5G in the downlink: the approach restricts the peak data rate to around 1Gb/s, but with lower latency. Simple installation Cheun said the Massive MIMO unit deployed by the Korean operators is among the smallest and lightest in the industry, “ensuring they can be easily installed" in operators’ existing cellular sites with "minimal changes”. He noted the ability to reuse existing sites had been key to enabling operators in Korea to deploy a 5G network consisting of tens of thousands of radios within just a few months. The virtualised 5G core used by all three operators supports both legacy 4G networks 5G services in non-standalone mode and can also migrate to standalone through a simple software upgrade, he said. Samsung is also a supplier of 5G gear to US-based Verizon which launched its mobile 5G service [3] in two cities last week: it plans to expand coverage to 30 cities this year. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
8:41
True on buying spree to boost non-telecoms biz
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Thai operator True detailed the latest in a series of investments made over the past month to boost its capabilities in the online retail, IoT and gaming sectors. In a statement to the Stock Exchange of Thailand yesterday (9 April), True said it invested THB81.7 million ($2.6 million) in local software company Queue Q to drive its expansion in the offline-to-online market. The operator, through its subsidiary True Incube, acquired a 30 per cent stake in the start-up. Last week True announced it spent $25 million to take a 51 per cent interest in Crave Interactive, a UK-based technology provider for the global hospitality sector that supplies tablet PCs for hotel rooms. True aims to use Crave’s technology to enhance its IoT business. In March the operator joined forces with Line Games and Korea Venture Investment to create a finance fund [1] targeting opportunities in the gaming and technology sectors. True invested about $5.9 million in the fund, for a 26 per cent equity stake. [1] [https:]
2:01
Blog: Will Philippine tower plan narrow density gap?
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South Korean mobile operators launched consumer 5G services [1] on 5 April, with market leader SK Telecom (SKT) claiming to have already deployed 34,000 5G base stations across the country. As the hyper-connected country of some 51 million people moves into an era of gigabit mobile speeds, it’s interesting to compare SKT’s site density with mobile operators in the Philippines, which has more than twice as many people (107 million) and nearly three-times the land mass. SKT’s 5G base station count is more than twice that of Smart Communications’ 4G total, which was 16,200 at end-2018. That’s after an 86 per cent jump from the previous year made possible by a 46 per cent boost in capex by its parent company PLDT to PHP58.8 billion ($1.1 billion). As a percentage of revenue, capex rose from 27 per cent in 2017 to 38 per cent in 2018 and is expected to increase to more than 40 per cent this year. Site density Despite Smart Communications’s added investment, it has just 1.5 4G base stations per 10,000 people, while SKT has deployed 6.7 5G sites for the same population. Meanwhile, Philippine's market leader Globe Telecom had about 17,000 4G base station sites (out of a total of 40,500) at end-September 2018 (it offered no update in its most recent earnings report [2]). Its capex in 2018 increased less than 2 per cent year-on-year to PHP43.3 billion, but is forecast to jump 46 per cent to PHP63 million in 2019. The hike was likely prompted in large part by Smart Communication’s rising spend and the pending entry of a third major player [3], the Mislatel consortium. The investments are starting to have an impact. Mobile broadband speeds and coverage have improved rapidly over the past year, with LTE availability as measured by OpenSignal improving from less than 64 per cent in Q1 2018 to about 71 per cent in first quarter of this year. But the country still lags in the region, ranking behind India and Vietnam in 4G availability. Costly coverage The Philippines’ much larger land mass (about 300,000 sq km compared with South Korea’s 100,210 sq km) makes deployment more challenging and costly. The former has a population density of 337 persons per sq km versus 503 in Korea. This certainly is another key factor impacting the cost of deploying radio access networks. Adding mobile cell sites is expensive, particularly for the larger sites needed in markets which are more sparsely populated, where a single tower can cost several hundred thousand US dollars. Phil Marshall, chief research officer at Tolaga Research, told Mobile World Live operators are under tremendous pressure to deliver broadband capacity and near ubiquitous coverage, noting “this is much easier to achieve in densely populated markets like South Korea, Hong Kong and Japan, but unrealistic in other markets where the population is more dispersed and where the incremental revenues gained from new cell sites are insufficient in offsetting capital investment costs”. Sharing Little wonder the Philippines government has been pushing since September 2018 to attract investment from international tower companies [4] by promising to streamline the cumbersome procedures required to build and connect towers. Eliseo Rio, acting secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, said in January the country requires 50,000 more towers [5] in addition to the roughly 16,000 already deployed. Once tower companies are given the green light to build and the incumbents agree to start network sharing, the question is how long will it take for the country’s base station density to start approaching that of a developed market like South Korea? In the short-term, the more important issue will be ensuring the independent companies give the Mislatel consortium the necessary access to fixed and mobile infrastructure to compete effectively against the current duopoly, encouraging all players to boost still lagging data speeds and spotty coverage outside the three major cities. The editorial views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and will not necessarily reflect the views of the GSMA, its Members or Associate Members. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:] [5] [https:]
April 09, 2019
18:37
Verizon lines up 5G rollout in San Diego
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Verizon inked a deal to speed wireless infrastructure upgrades in the city of San Diego, California, as it pushes ahead with plans to launch mobile 5G in 30 cities this year. Under the agreement, Verizon will invest more than $100 million to deploy new infrastructure and equipment across the city, including digital fibre and small cells to roughly 60,000 city-owned lamp posts. In return, officials agreed to streamline issuance of permits. Additionally, Verizon will supply 500 smartphones to the San Diego Police Department and 50 tablets to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. The operator will also deploy traffic monitoring technology at five crash-prone junctions to improve access to vehicular patterns and traffic flow data for city officials. In a statement, Verizon SVP of Engineering Ed Chan said the updates will be “foundational to the future deployment of 5G network technology here”. The deal comes as Verizon looks to rapidly expand on early mobile 5G deployments [1] in two US cities. Cost of collaboration Deals like the one in San Diego provide value in helping overcome barriers to infrastructure deployments [2] in key locations. But, after signing an infrastructure agreement with the city of San Jose [3], California in June 2018, Verizon’s SVP of Federal Regulatory and Legal Affairs William Johnson noted in a blog post they come with a hefty cost. “These arrangements leverage private sector investment, not public dollars, and the practical reality is that capital budgets are limited, and expense budgets have to be managed. So higher costs to deploy in one city mean less network infrastructure deployment in others.” [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
17:49
Huawei mooted as unusual tech partner for Apple
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Huawei would be open to selling 5G modem technology to Apple following claims of woe with the iPhone maker’s current partner, Engadget reported in an article which delivered more questions than answers. Citing a “source with knowledge of the situation”, Engadget noted it is unclear if the companies have actually engaged in conversations, with neither party responding for requests for comment. Such a move would certainly be unusual for Huawei, which has previously used its silicon technology internally as a differentiator to rival companies. The report doesn’t indicate a wider change of strategy: the only company Huawei would supply is Apple, Engadget said. The wider issue is Apple’s 5G plans are currently surrounded by speculation [1], notably that silicon partner Intel may not be able to supply modem technology for the iPhone to support the timing of Apple’s launch plans. In terms of alternative suppliers, it is not clear if MediaTek would be able to deliver on time, or if Samsung could meet demand beyond its own 5G smartphone business [2]. While the majority of device makers eyeing 5G devices are using Qualcomm technology, Apple is locked in a fierce legal battle with the company, putting it out of the iPhone running. Sitting pretty Huawei is in an interesting position: its 5G modem technology is already powering home routers and with commercial smartphones likely to follow in the near future, it is at the front of the pack. Supplying Apple would also be something of a magnanimous gesture for the company, which is experiencing strong growth while rivals struggle with a shrinking market. From Apple’s perspective, there are two issues: doing a deal with a fierce competitor, and the wider political situation. On the first, the company has bought components from Samsung, so is clearly reconciled to the fact that while it competes with a company on one level, it may be a customer on another. Apple has also inked a deal to make its services available on Samsung smart TVs [3]. But the bigger problem is Huawei is currently persona non grata in the US and, should Apple look to source technology from the company in preference to Intel, a deal would likely be hampered by politics. There is an option for Apple to use a split supplier strategy, with Huawei technology in overseas markets and Intel at home, although this would still be likely to cause some ire in the face of the ongoing US-China trade spat. From a cynical point of view, the mooting of the idea Huawei would be open to supply Apple is something which works firmly in the favour of the Chinese vendor: it looks to be playing a fair and honest hand in the knowledge it is massively unlikely it will ever need to deliver. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
17:22
Q&A: Cloud games offer operator opportunity
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Javier Polo, CEO of European start-up PlayGiga (pictured, below) discussed the benefits operators can gain from investing in cloud-based gaming with Mobile World Live. [1]Why should operators invest in cloud gaming? Javier Polo (JP): There are a number of reasons. It is a customer acquisition tool, representing the first big opportunity in some time for an operator to offer a completely new category of digital services to their subscribers, expanding their entertainment portfolio and providing a key differentiator for their product if they are early to adopt. It's also an upselling tool: the possibility to enjoy high-end games on a TV or PC represents a good reason for customers on current ADSL/cable connections to upgrade to premium connections. Cloud gaming can also be a retention tool, promoting customer loyalty and reducing churn when bundled in top-tier tariffs together with connectivity and pay-TV subscriptions. Lastly it increases ARPU and adds more value through the set-top box (STB), as the launch of a games streaming service is often associated with a new generation of STBs being deployed by the operator. With the advent of 5G networks and the huge amounts of money operators are investing in it, cloud gaming is a perfect use case. While B2B applications for the new technology abound, that is not the case for B2C services. Cloud gaming may well be the first killer application for 5G networks, either in connected homes or on mobile. With 5G, operators have for the first time a real opportunity to become a significant gaming channel. They already have captive family audiences, wider than the traditional console or PC gaming target: they have the infrastructure and also the experience in selling services at a huge scale. How does your service compare to Google’s Stadia? JP: It’s important to understand that Stadia [2] seems to be very much targeted at hardcore gamers who already own consoles and gaming PCs. Whereas PlayGiga targets the family/mass-market segment, through a B2B2C strategy in partnership with operators and media companies. Stadia has announced it will support 4K and 60fps, which bears a high cost and is not something the mass market looks for. It also seems to require a 15Mb/s to 25Mb/s internet connection, which will exclude millions of regular gamers on slower connections. By announcing its own studio and its own developer SDK, it feels like Stadia is a new gaming platform and not just a streaming service. So, I see this more as a challenge to companies that offer virtual PCs in the cloud. It could also be a challenge to big platform holders like Microsoft and Sony, especially if Google starts competing with them to secure big first-party IP. It’s great to see cloud gaming getting so much attention, but nothing has really changed for us. Our focus remains on the mass-market of families through telecom and media operators which can offer to their expansive subscriber bases a compelling new high-engagement digital service. You recently announced a partnership with Ooredoo Qatar: what other operator deals are in the pipeline? JP: We currently have open conversations with more than 60 companies throughout the world and see this number growing every month. What can be expected from PlayGiga in 2019? JP: We aim to continue our investment in technology. What this means is that we need to cooperate with multiple R&D laboratories throughout Europe and the US, while at the same time enriching our catalogue and expanding our business in new markets. The new business model enabled by streaming will contribute to the transformation of the games market towards a better model for end-users, publishers and developers. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
16:49
EU approves laws targeting mobile payment fraud
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New EU rules to tackle non-cash payment crimes were approved by the European Council and will become law, with member states given two years to bring national regulations into line. The rules require EU states to recognise, investigate and punish a range of specific offences related to scams and fraud of non-cash payment systems including mobile payments. They also sets out minimum jail terms for some crimes, including falsifying transactions and the use of hacked payment accounts. In a statement, the EU Council said the new rules remove obstacles to investigation and prosecution in addition to providing guidelines on measures to improve public awareness. The rules cover consistent criminal sentencing across countries within the economic bloc; clarified jurisdiction descriptions to aid in cross-border crimes; citizen awareness and support programmes; and clearer definitions for some offences. In a statement, the Council said the directive aims to be “technology-neutral" and cover "traditional non-cash payments such as bank cards or cheques" along with new payment methods including "electronic wallets, mobile payments and virtual currencies”.
13:30
MEP committee rejects connected car proposal
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The European Parliament's Committee for Transport and Tourism rejected a controversial proposal to use Wi-Fi based technology as the primary method of communication for connected cars. Its objection to the European Commission (EC) recommendation is intended to steer the wider European Parliament, which is scheduled to consider the policy at a meeting next week. Prior to a vote on the issue, vice chair of the committee Dominique Riquet urged the rejection of the EC’s proposal on the grounds it was “against the principle of technological neutrality” noting there were also serious doubts about the selection. “No one else in the world has made the choice for this technology,” Riquet said. “Either a different technology was chosen in the case of China, South Korea and Japan, or a technology neutrality was respected in the case of the US.” Other MEPs argued the proposal was fair and had the advantage of using a technology that was already available, enabling faster deployment and hastening road safety benefits. When announced in March, the EC's decision to opt for a Wi-Fi based system [1] rather than cellular technology caused a storm among mobile industry groups, with both the GSMA and ETNO urging the EU’s other legal bodies to turn the proposal down [2]. In a joint letter to MEPs and other EU authorities sent last week, the groups said the move to use protocols based on Wi-Fi 802.11p would relegate European citizens "to an inferior technology that only a very limited amount of car manufacturers are planning to deploy”. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
13:11
EC puts people in driving seat of AI ethics
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The European Commission (EC) kicked-off its Digital Day 2019 with a focus on AI, taking an approach where, it stated, “the added value lies in the fact that it is human centred, it is the human behind the wheel”. Noting opportunities in healthcare, waste management and fraud prevention, among others, Commissioner for Digital Economy and Society Mariya Gabriel (pictured) said: “We have a threefold European strategy for AI, fostering development, addressing social issues and ensuring ethical AI." "The challenges for the future are numerous including, of course, ethics, but also the need for investments and the world race. In this perspective, we keep on moving forward.” Test Building on the work of a 52-member high-level expert group, which includes members from industry and academia, the Commission launched a pilot to ensure its ethical guidelines for AI development and use can be implemented in practice. The work is based on “seven essentials for achieving trustworthy AI”, including the need to support human oversight and rights: AI should not “decrease, limit or misguide human activity”. Citizens should also have control over their own data, which should not be used to harm or discriminate against them. Transparency is also important, with the traceability of AI systems ensured. Mechanisms should also be in place to ensure responsibility and accountability for AI systems and their outcomes. AI systems also need to support diversity, non-discrimination and fairness: they should consider the whole range of human abilities, skills and requirements, and ensure accessibility. They should also be used to enhance positive social change and enhance sustainability and ecological responsibility. Additonally, AI systems need to be secure, reliable and robust enough to deal with errors or inconsistencies during all lifecycle phases. The EC said it wants to bring its approach to AI ethics to the global stage, “because technologies, data and algorithms know no borders”. It will continue to work with “like-minded partners” including Japan, Canada and Singapore, while continuing to play an active role in international discussions and initiatives including G7 and G20. [1]Operator group Telenor was among the players issuing early support for the EC’s work. Ieva Martinkenaite, VP at Telenor Research and a member of the expert group (pictured, left), said: “AI ethics is a complex topic with unsolved challenges that leaders of industry and of policy will need to come together to help solve for the good of the wider society. The Ethics Guidelines released by the EC are a good example of that and a starting point for such discussions in Europe and globally.” Digital Single Market Opening Digital Day 2019, EC VP Andrus Ansip updated on work to create the Digital Single Market, stating the EC had secured 28 of the 30 laws required to “build a functioning digital economy and society”. He cited achievements including abolishing roaming charges; ending geoblocking of services; and adoption of policies designed to stimulate competition and investment in 5G networks. Other work highlighted included net neutrality policies and cybersecurity initiatives, along with the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulation [2]. “Along with data and investment, trust is also vital for the successful development of AI,” he said. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
12:21
Telefonica goes large on LatAm content
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Telefonica prepared to premiere original content developed in Latin America this year, as part of a commitment to becoming the leading producer of Spanish-language fiction programmes in the world. Pre-production of the first three series is underway in Colombia and Peru, with the first releases on Telefonica's video platforms due in the second half of the year. In a statement, Telefonica said the move affirms a commitment to Spanish-language broadcasting which "began in early 2017 in Spain through Movistar+". It added the strategy is “fundamental in making its video services stand apart” which are also boosted by the “excellent connectivity of its fixed and mobile networks” and offer “the best user experience.” The company has nearly 9 million pay-TV users all over the world. Since 2017, 19 original series have been produced and exclusively released for Telefonica customers in the markets where it operates, along with another 50 countries through distribution agreements. Paula Figueroa, director of Telefonica's video unit, said: "We have transformed our video platform into an aggregator where our customers can access the best content, our own and others, from one place…We want our channels to become the best showcase for the huge talent and creativity of a grand community that speaks Spanish as a common language".
12:10
Telenor moves into Finland with €1.5B DNA buy
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Telenor struck agreements with the two largest shareholders of Finnish operator DNA to acquire a 54 per cent stake in the company, a move it said would further strengthen its position in the Nordic region. Assuming regulators clear the deal for the shareholdings of Finda and PHP, which it expects to happen in Q3, Telenor will make an offer for the remaining shares in the operator. In a statement, Telenor said Finland was an “attractive and growing market”. In figures presented to investors, it noted DNA held a 28 per cent share of Finland’s converged communications market in 2018, behind market leader Elisa (39 per cent) and Nordics rival Telia (32 per cent). DNA is the market’s third-largest mobile operator, second fixed provider and number one in the cable TV market. Telenor said post-acquisition it planned to also grow the operator’s B2B business. Telenor expects to be able to achieve cost synergies, including roaming savings, of NOK200 million ($23.4 million) on an annual basis following the deal. Tactics The move into Finland fits with the company’s strategy of selling assets non-core [1] to its business to focus on regions seen as key to its future. It has also undertaken a huge digitalisation and efficiency drive [2] to cut costs. Telenor already has operations in Norway, Denmark and Sweden, where it competes directly with local rival Telia. In addition, the Norway-headquartered company is present in Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Malaysia. It also retains a 9 per cent share in Veon, having been gradually selling-off its interest in the operator group over the last four years [3]. Telenor CEO Sigve Brekke (pictured) said: “DNA is an exciting addition to Telenor Group, and a natural complement to our existing operations in the Nordic region. Not only are we strengthening our footprint in the Nordic region, we are also gaining a solid position across fixed and mobile in the Finnish market and making room for further value creation.” [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
11:43
Snap launches gaming platform
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Snap made good on the much-anticipated launch of Snap Games [1], enabling Snapchat users to play games with their contacts from within the messaging app. Initiated at its Partner Summit, the company stated the feature can be opened “right from the Chat bar, allowing you and your friends to instantly play together, no install required". "You can see which friends you’re playing with, send them a chat, or even talk live with voice chat,” Snap said, adding the platform will have six titles to begin with. These include Tiny Royale by publisher Zynga and Snake Squad by Game Closure. Games may deliver Snap a much-needed financial boost through advertising and in-app purchases. In February CEO Evan Spiegel said [2] he is confident the company will soon turn a profit, after it narrowed its net loss and generated record revenue in the final quarter of 2018. Other announcements Snap also announced new original shows that are “personal, intimate, and made for the way you use your phone today.” These include a daily show by BuzzFeed plus docuseries, comedies, and teen dramas. By way of providing metrics for its previous shows, Snap said “the time Snapchatters spent watching Shows has nearly tripled” in Q4 2018 compared with the same period of 2017. The show Endless Summer reached more than 28 million unique viewers during its first season, while more than 40 per cent of viewers which completed the first episode of The Dead Girls Detective Agency went on to watch the entire first season. There was also an update to Lens Studio with more templates for AR creators including Landmarkers, which enables developers to build Lenses (or filters) “that can transform the world's most iconic landmarks in real-time.” [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
10:31
Boeing calls for in-flight spectrum boost
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Boeing urged the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to make it easier for commercial aircraft to access unlicensed spectrum in the 6GHz band, as airlines aim to keep up with rapidly growing demand for on-board connectivity. In a filing, Boeing asked the FCC to classify the interior of commercial aeroplanes as indoor locations in its forthcoming rules for the 6GHz band, rather than mandating they meet additional frequency coordination and database management system requirements. The company noted commercial aircraft are “rapidly becoming the single most congested wireless operating environment in the world, with hundreds of seated passengers using personal wireless devices to simultaneously access video, audio and internet content over the same in-flight wireless network”. It pressed the FCC to make the change sooner rather than later, when the “spectrum scarcity problem on aircraft could become even worse”. Debate The request comes as the FCC considers new rules proposed in October 2018, which would open a 1,200MHz channel of spectrum in the 6GHz band [1] for unlicensed use. Technology giants including Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and Qualcomm supported using the band for unlicensed operations. However, the proposal was resisted by AT&T, which said stronger controls are needed to protect satellite and broadcast incumbents before unlicensed operations are introduced. Industry association CTIA and Verizon backed a compromise which would designate the upper portion of the 6GHz band for licensed use and the lower portion for unlicensed, provided the latter includes a plan to protect against harmful interference. [1] [https:]
9:32
Spark sets customer unit leadership succession
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New Zealand operator Spark announced Grant McBeath (pictured) will take over as customer director from Jolie Hodson, who is due to replace Simon Moutter as MD [1] when he steps down at end-June. McBeath joined Spark in 2013 as GM of sales for its Consumer and SMB Business, and had a spell as acting CEO for Spark Home, Mobile and Business before a company reshuffle saw him appointed as channel leader of the consumer division. In a statement, Hodson said McBeath has a strong track record of “building high performing teams and delivering for customers not only at Spark, but in his time in global executive roles in companies like Nokia”. She added his latest role requires “a deep understanding of both the competitive market Spark operates in and the evolving needs of its customers, which Grant absolutely possesses as a result of his extensive experience managing Spark’s consumer sales and customer channels”. McBeath and Hodson will take up their new positions on 1 July. [1] [https:]
March 11, 2019
19:25
US turns screws on Germany over Huawei kit
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The US threatened to cut back on intelligence sharing with Germany if it allows operators to use Huawei equipment in their 5G networks, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported. In a letter to German officials reviewed by the newspaper, the US ambassador to the country Richard Grenell warned use of kit from companies including Huawei and ZTE could compromise the security of information exchanges between defence partners. While intelligence sharing would not cease entirely if Germany allows Chinese equipment, Grenell said it would not continue at the same level. The ambassador went on to suggest Ericsson, Nokia and Samsung as alternative 5G equipment suppliers. The official notice followed an informal warning issued by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in February, who said the presence of Huawei kit in overseas networks would make it more difficult to partner [1] with those countries due to security concerns. German regulators last week unveiled a plan to implement more stringent security requirements [2] for operators. However, the draft regulations did not explicitly prohibit any equipment provider. Huawei and ZTE repeatedly denied they pose a threat, with Huawei rotating chairman Guo Ping arguing at MWC19 Barcelona the US has no evidence [3] to back up its claims. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
18:02
AT&T steps up mobile gaming play with ESL deal
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AT&T partnered with e-sports company ESL to launch a new mobile gaming league, marking the operator’s latest move to deepen its involvement in the growing entertainment segment. VentureBeat reported the new ESL Mobile Open league will begin its first season on 18 March and offer a prize fund of $330,000. In a statement to the publication, ESL North America CEO Yvette Martinez-Rea said the mobile league was created to “provide anyone with a phone access to compete at the highest levels,” adding ESL believes “mobile will provide the opportunity to bring the next generation of e-sports enthusiasts into the fold.” AT&T, which first became an ESL gaming sponsor in June 2018, was a “natural” partner in this endeavour, she said. The move comes as AT&T looks to grow its presence in mobile gaming, particularly the e-sports segment, a form of gaming where players compete in front of live and online audiences. Market research company Newzoo forecast revenue from the sector will hit $1.1 billion in 2019, with North America generating 37 per cent of the total, followed by China (19 per cent) and South Korea (6 per cent). In November 2018, AT&T signed on as the exclusive operator partner in the US [1] for Razer’s latest gaming-oriented phone and earlier this month inked a deal to sponsor esports team Cloud9. AT&T previously highlighted the role 5G and edge computing can play in unlocking new frontiers in mobile gaming, noting the technologies “could someday provide the user experience gamers have come to know and love from their traditional consoles, directly on their mobile devices”. [1] [https:]
17:53
Interview: 5G remote surgery
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Dr de Lacy, the surgeon responsible for the 5G tele-mentoring remote surgery at MWC19, drops by the studio to talk more about the ground-breaking procedure.
16:16
Studio demo: Xplora
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The startup brings in a range of new wearables - and Justin Springham gets to try out the company's HoverShoes!
14:37
Interview: UbiquitiLink
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CEO Charles Miller joins Justin Springham in the studio to reveal how the company has switched on the first "cell tower in space."
13:56
High-end shift lifts NZ smartphone market
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A move to more expensive smartphones in New Zealand in 2018 fuelled a double-digit increase in revenue despite overall shipments dipping 1.6 per cent year-on-year, IDC data showed. Shipments of models priced NZD900 ($612) and over rose 24 per cent in 2018, accounting for 40 per cent of the market compared with 33 per cent in 2017 and 29 per cent in 2016. Meanwhile, shipments in the low-end (below NZD300) declined 19 per cent, representing 32 per cent of the total compared with 40 per cent in 2017 and 49 per cent in 2016. Devices priced NZD300 to NZD500 increased 43 per cent annually and accounted for 18 per cent of the market versus 13 per cent in 2017, while shipments of devices priced NZD500 to NZD900 accounted for 9 per cent of the 2018 total, from 14 per cent in 2017. An increase in the ASP led to a 21.6 per cent jump in smartphone revenue year-on-year. Scott Manion, IDC New Zealand market analyst for client devices, said consumers are willing to invest more in devices because they’re becoming increasingly reliant upon them in their daily lives. He noted that while vendors benefit from greater revenue in the short-term, higher-end devices lead to longer life cycles. A consumer in New Zealand now owns a smartphone for an average of 3.7 years. This longer lifecycle in combination with a saturated market will likely contribute to decreased unit shipments in future, IDC said.
13:41
Interview: Boingo
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Boingo CTO Dr Derek Peterson and MWL TV co-host Sasha Twining share their experience of having a NFC chip implanted in their bodies.
13:27
Italian lender ups TIM stake as crunch meeting looms
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Italian state lender CDP spent €960 million to increase its stake in Telecom Italia, as activist investor Elliott Management urged the operator’s shareholders to back its strategy ahead of a crunch meeting later this month. A filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, showed CDP has now amassed 1.32 million Telecom Italia shares, increasing its stake from 7 per cent to 8.7 per cent. Reuters reported the state lender is eager to hold a 10 per cent stake in time for the operator’s next shareholder meeting, scheduled for 29 March. [1] The long-awaited meeting is set to determine the long-term composition of Telecom Italia’s board, after the operator’s largest shareholder Vivendi requested the removal of five board members appointed by Elliott Management in favour of candidates it put forward. Vivendi owns around 24 per cent of Telecom Italia, while Elliott Management holds just under 10 per cent. The latter took control of the operator’s board from Vivendi in May 2018, appointing two-thirds of the board. Its move was aided by CDP, which at the time held a 5 per cent stake in the operator. In a statement released today (11 March), Elliott Management turned up the heat on shareholders, as the meeting draws closer. “Elliott’s presentation outlines the clear choice facing shareholders at the upcoming shareholder vote on 29 March: a choice between stability and the continued recovery of company value, or a return to Vivendi’s poor stewardship with its broken promises, track record of prolonged and pervasive value distraction and contempt for good governance.” Elliott Management continued to state that Vivendi’s nominees for board election are “unsupportable" and "lack true independence”. [1] [https:]
13:14
MTN Botswana withdrawal faces hurdles
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The board of Botswana-based operator Mascom raised concerns about MTN Group selling its majority stake [1] in the operator to Econet Wireless, believing stakeholder Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund (BPOPF) should have had a say in the matter, Mmegi reported. MTN agreed the $300 million sale to JV partner Econet Wireless last week following a review of its portfolio. Econet Wireless is owned by Strive Masiyiwa, who founded Mascom in 1998 but gradually sold off most of his shares. Today, Mascom’s board is dominated by representatives of BPOPF and the operator is one of the pension fund’s most lucrative investments. Sources quoted by Mmegi said BPOPF representatives on the board rejected MTN’s proposals and argued the pension fund should be given the first right to buy any shares on offer. “The pension fund is well capable of making an offer for those shares and if they cannot, they could find partners,” said a source, adding: “At worse, they could even list those shares." Another source stated: “Masiyiwa apparently wants to come back to significant equity through purchasing MTN’s shares.” The board also questioned the valuation of the deal and said due diligence will have to be conducted before the share transfer process can begin. [1] [https:]
13:02
Ofcom pressed over rural 4G coverage
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A cross-party group of UK politicians urged regulator Ofcom to up its game in terms of reporting on 4G service availability in rural areas. In a letter, the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Rural Business said the regulator should incorporate details on rural coverage in its reporting to “assure consumers and rural people that improvements are being made to 4G availability”. The group, which includes representatives from the main political parties, noted it was “initially pleased” by measures proposed by the watchdog, such as reduced spectrum charges [1] in return for improved coverage and the installation of new masts in rural areas. But it also noted that monitoring will only take place at the end of a period of obligations (2020 to 2024), when operators will need to provide proof that infrastructure is in place. “Ofcom has acknowledged across several reports and especially in its guidance to government that mobile operators are reluctant to build masts in rural areas due to significant costs...therefore it seems irresponsible for there to be a lack of monitoring during this period,” the group wrote. It was suggested that Ofcom include rural coverage progress as part of its annual Connected Nations report to “assure consumers and rural people that improvements are being made to 4G availability”. Ofcom has previously noted errors [2] in the way that some operators have reported coverage, although not always to their own benefit. A number of ways to address rural connectivity challenges are being explored by the regulator, including the ability to roam between operators, a proposal which was not universally welcomed. [1] [https:] [2] [https:]
12:53
Interview: Peter Jarich, GSMA
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The Head of GSMA Intelligence joins Justin Springham in the studio to preview the week ahead.
12:36
Clegg cautions over EU Facebook regulation risk
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Facebook's head of global affairs Nick Clegg (pictured, centre) warned the company's business model could be under threat by proposed EU regulations, while VP EMEA Nicola Mendelsohn opened up on how the social media giant is tackling recent security issues. Former UK deputy prime minister Clegg, who joined Facebook in 2018, told senior EU officials the company's dealings with online advertisers is at risk because of proposed privacy laws designed to protect users, The Telegraph reported. The laws would require Facebook to get consent from account holders before accessing and using their personal information, data which is used by the company's online advertising customers. Tough times Clegg's comments come after what Mendelsohn described as a "hard" year for the company during an interview with Mobile World Live at the recent MWC19 Barcelona. During 2018, the company faced a period of intense scrutiny sparked by the Cambridge Analytica data breach scandal [1] in March 2018. It also came under fire over its data collection and privacy practices in the UK and Germany and faced a data breach spat with the US Federal Trade Commission [2]. [3]Mendelsohn (pictured, right) said Facebook is now a very different place as a result, both in terms of internal culture and "also in terms of where we are placing our money…if you want to look at what a company values, you look at where the money is being spent. Our money is being spent on safety, security and privacy”. Some 30,000 employees are now focused on the "safety of business, safety of people and if there is any bad content, we make sure it is taken down” Facebook also introduced transparancy around political adverts in a bid to maintain the integrity of elections and acts more swiftly to take down fake news, she explained. Mendelsohn, however, conceded that with 2.7 billion people connected to its platform, it was representing the great, the good and the bad of humanity, and may never be able to entirely rid it of the latter. Click here [4] for more. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:]
12:25
Interview: Nokia Networks
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Phil Twist joins Justin Springham in the studio on the Sunday of MWC19 to review the company's show plans and tease a new product announcement.
12:11
Interview: Alejandro Pinero, GSMA (part 1)
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Sasha Twining catches up with the GSMA’s conference team to discuss the week’s sessions.
11:51
Interview: Alejandro Pinero, GSMA (part 2)
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Sasha Twining catches up with the GSMA's conference team to discuss the week's sessions.
11:37
Interview: Zehra Chudry, GSMA
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Sasha Twining catches up with the GSMA's conference team to discuss the week's sessions.
11:37
Interview: Keren Bowman, GSMA
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Sasha Twining catches up with the GSMA's conference team to discuss the week's sessions.
11:24
Guest Blog: More to MWC19 than 5G
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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[1]Phil Marshall, chief research officer at US-based Tolaga Research (pictured, right), offers his highlights from the recent MWC19 Barcelona. Between 25 Feburary and 28 February, MWC19 Barcelona welcomed 109,000 delegates for a four-day commercially-led geek-fest. An idle observer could be forgiven for thinking MWC19 was only about 5G. Virtually every exhibitor had a 5G story to tell. Many of these paralleled those from 2018, but were punctuated by deployment announcements, smartphones, better-than-expected performance results for 5G mmWave and even more use cases. Most popular among these were automotive, smart manufacturing and smart cities. At Nokia’s pre-MWC19 event [2], CEO Rajeev Suri talked about the rapid progress the industry has made towards 5G, with the vendor now approaching 100 network trials. At Ericsson’s media and analyst event, CEO Borje Ekholm cited his company’s ten contracts and live traffic as clear evidence that 5G is “here now”. Although Huawei’s story is overshadowed by claimed security threats, it had a formidable presence at the show. It had the largest booth of any exhibitor and benefitted from several contract wins, lessened restrictions for its equipment in the UK and support from industry heavyweights including Vodafone Group's CEO Nick Read. In some respects, MWC19 Barcelona was reminiscent of shows from past decades, when antenna technology was important. Ericsson won the Best Mobile Network Infrastructure award for its 5G high-band Massive MIMO and announced plans to acquire Kathrein, an advanced antenna company which itself celebrated its 100th anniversary at the show. Nokia announced its liquid-cooled 5G Airscale Massive MIMO antenna and scheduler, which will initially be launched by Vodafone. Huawei demonstrated an extensive range of radio products and won the Best Mobile Technology Breakthrough award for its 5G RAN portfolio, while ZTE showcased its low-cost Unisite solution to simplify 5G radio deployments. Going agile Operational automation and transformation are perennial topics at MWC, and this year was no different. The stakes are high, since large-scale infrastructure virtualisation initiatives and services like network slicing cannot be realised until operators transform and automate their operations. Rakuten, a new-entrant network operator in Japan, bucked the status quo by announcing plans to deploy a fully virtualised, cloud native [3] mobile network in October, using a variety of technology vendors, including Altiostar, Cisco, Nokia, NEC and Netcracker. Rakuten’s strategy is bold and will be confronted with plenty of challenges, particularly in the areas of orchestration, unforeseen platform performance bottlenecks, and multi-vendor compatibility and feature transparency. However, if successful with its strategy, Rakuten will reap the benefits of an agile 5G infrastructure in one of the most advanced mobile markets in the world. Semiconductor, sub-system and component companies, large and small, crammed the halls with a seemingly endless array of innovations: a pertinent reminder of the crucial role they play in enabling mobile services. For example, Qualcomm showcased its Snapdragon 855 platform [4], which is optimised for a laundry-list of capabilities including 5G new radio (NR); computer vision; artificial intelligence (AI); and immersive computing for augmented, virtual and mixed reality. Infineon showcased a variety of solutions including those for security; 5G mmWave; autonomous systems; and wearables. Notable among the smaller component companies was Resonant, which demonstrated a prototype wideband RF filter that reliably achieves a 10 per cent bandwidth ratio (exempli gratia: up to 500MHz channels in 5GHz spectrum), a significant improvement on the 3.5 per cent ratio achievable with current acoustic RF filters. It is easy to underestimate the many performance bottlenecks such as channel bandwidth, processor throughput, and latency and energy consumption demands that are created with advanced services. While the industry tends to covet commoditised hardware, MWC19 Barcelona reminded us that there are still tremendous requirements for special purpose solutions. More specialisation No technology show is complete without a dose of AI and machine learning (ML), and MWC19 Barcelona didn’t disappoint. For cases such as network operations; video surveillance; computer vision; and identity management, AI and ML are rapidly becoming table stakes, with solutions on full display. Most rely upon general purpose hardware platforms, however, companies including Huawei and Nokia were also touting their purpose-built processors: Ascend in the case of Huawei; and Reefshark for Nokia. Many of the AI and ML displays were impressive and it was easy to lose sight of the complexities in delivering reliable solutions, the training and optimisation needed, and the potential for technology overreach. Although 5G stole the limelight at MWC19 Barcelona, the show certainly had much more to offer. Most technology innovations on display were equally relevant for 4G and other wireless technologies. There was a growing presence of vertical industries with solutions that function on networks today. Progress in this area (albeit at glacial pace) was evident, and we hope the presence of disruptive players like Rakuten will propel the industry forward with compelling business cases and innovations for MWC20. The editorial views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and will not necessarily reflect the views of the GSMA, its Members or Associate Members. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:]
9:49
US politician proposes big tech break-up
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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US senator and 2020 presidential candidate Elizabeth Warren (pictured) unveiled a plan to split technology giants including Amazon, Google and Facebook as part of a bid to spur innovation and competition. The proposal calls for the passage of new laws which would classify online marketplaces and platforms as so-called platform utilities. All such companies would be barred from sharing user data with third parties and held to new standards of fair dealing with users. Additionally, companies with revenue of more than $25 billion would be prohibited from participating in their own marketplace. In effect, the latter provision would require Amazon (as owner of Amazon Marketplace) to spin off its Basics brand of retail products. Similarly, Google would be forced to separate its advertising exchange from other owned businesses which advertise on the platform. If elected president, Warren said she would also appoint officials to unwind a number of transactions deemed anti-competitive, including Facebook’s acquisitions of WhatsApp [1] and Instagram [2], and Google’s deals with Waze [3] and Nest [4]. Warren said the goal is to make room for up and coming tech companies to thrive: “To do that, we need to stop this generation of big tech companies from throwing around their political power to shape the rules in their favour and throwing around their economic power to snuff-out or buy-up every potential competitor.” Google, Amazon and Facebook did not immediately respond to requests for comment. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:] [4] [https:]
March 08, 2019
22:22
Altaeros floats alternative rural coverage option
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Top US operators began evaluating a new mobile tower technology from infrastructure start-up Altaeros, which claimed the set-up could revolutionise the rural 5G market. Ben Glass, CEO and CTO of the company, told Mobile World Live (MWL) the company is testing the system with “some of the big carriers that are household names”, with a view to deploying it in the latter part of 2019 and early 2020. The executive did not confirm which operators are testing the technology. However, applications filed with the Federal Communications Commission show it conducted FDD-LTE tests in PCS spectrum and more recently trialled TD-LTE at 2.5GHz. A Sprint representative told MWL it allowed Altaeros to use some of its 2.5GHz spectrum for the latter testing, but did not confirm whether it is evaluating the technology for itself. Verizon flat denied it is involved: AT&T and T-Mobile US had not responded at the time of publishing. Flying high Altaeros aims to build on the recent launch of its SuperTower, which employs small airships called aerostats to hoist cellular radio equipment 800 feet into the air. He claimed SuperTowers can cut 60 per cent from the cost of building and operating a rural network, primarily because fewer of them are needed to serve a given area (one aerostat can do the job of 15 terrestrial towers), offering financial benefits for rural 5G deployments. "If you look at the trajectory of new technologies historically they've all started in urban areas and slowly trickled out into rural markets. But with 5G a lot of the use cases are pretty relevant for rural areas, and we think SuperTowers will allow carriers to accelerate the rural 5G build so it keeps pace with the urban build." Unlike Google’s free-floating Loon ballons, the aerostats are held in place by tethers, along which power and fibre cables are run. Glass explained the height allows the sites to provide a cleaner line-of-sight to subscribers than ground-based towers and coverage of more than 35 miles. Despite the unique form factor, Glass said the set-up is similar to that of traditional towers: baseband equipment on the ground; radios and antennas in the air; and cabling to bridge the gap. SuperTowers use the same off-the-shelf kit as employed by mainstream operators, though reconfigured to provide more capacity than the average macro site.
18:07
Panel Discussion: Blockchain
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Kavit Majithia discusses one of the biggest buzzwords in mobile with guests Catherine Mulligan, co-director for cryptocurrency research at Imperial College; Ling Wu, Founder and CEO, TBCASoft; and Ivo Rook, SVP Internet of Things, Sprint.
15:01
Panel Discussion: Privacy & Security
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Sasha Twining discusses this topic with guests Yiru Zhong, Lead Analyst, IoT and Enterprise, GSMA Intelligence; Jordan McClead, Privacy Lead, Google; and Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, Federal Trade Commissioner, USA
14:05
Do consumers believe the 5G Hype?
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Justin Springham discusses this issue with guests Peter Jarich, Head of GSMA Intelligence; Derek Johnston, Head of Marketing & 5G Business Development, Samsung Electronics America; and Nigel Stephenson, Senior Market Development Manager, VMWare.
13:25
Germany revising network security rules
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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German regulator Bundesnetzagentur prepared additional security requirements for telecoms companies as the country’s 5G auction approaches, in a move that could be a win for Huawei. The draft rules state systems may only be sourced from trustworthy suppliers whose compliance with national security regulations, and provisions for the secrecy of telecommunications and data protection is assured. Among other points, the regulator said network traffic must be constantly monitored for any abnormality and “security-related network and system components” may only be used if they have been certified by the Federal Office for Information Security. When planning and building the network, "monocultures" must be avoided by using network and system components from different manufacturers. [1]"We revise the security requirements on a regular basis in light of the current security situation and technological developments," Jochen Homann, Bundesnetzagentur's president (pictured, right), stated. "Security requirements apply to all network operators and service providers…all networks, not just individual standards like 5G, are included." The security requirements are still being drawn up, with a draft due to be released later in the year. However, companies have been given a chance to provide feedback based on what has been published so far. Huawei In January it was reported Germany’s government was considering [2] blocking the Chinese vendor from participating in 5G rollouts, as global security concerns about the vendor mounted. Financial Times reported the latest move indicates US pressure for Germany to exclude Huawei has "suffered a blow" because the proposals do "not explicitly ban" the company. However, it added operators could still decide Huawei does not fulfil the new criteria and refuse to use its equipment. Meanwhile Reuters reported Germany's economy minister, Peter Altmaier, as saying the country does "not want to exclude any company" when asked about Huawei, adding it will instead make rules stricter for all vendors. Operators have voiced multiple concerns [3] about the 5G auction terms, describing coverage obligations as unrealistic, and criticising allocations for third parties and provisions for a new entrant. [1] [https:] [2] [https:] [3] [https:]
12:53
Panel Discussion: Operator AI
» ‎ Mobile World Live

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Steve Costello discusses how operators can make the most of artificial intelligence with guests Francois Lefevre, Conversational Agent Director, Orange; Kirsi Valtari, VP, Telco Efficiency Business, Elisa; and Gil Rosen, GM for Emerging Offerings, Amdocs.

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