Two infrastructure expansion projects and two customer wins; … [visit site to read more]

Finnish development financier and impact investor Finnfund says it has closed a US$5million equity investment with Netwey, a Mexican internet service provider (ISP), to expand its fibre optic network and improve internet accessibility.

This investment, says Finnfund, aims to bring unlimited high-speed internet to more low-income households, bridging the digital divide. The digital infrastructure and solutions sector is one of Finnfund’s key strategic priorities and its most rapidly growing sector, although this is the group’s first digital sector investment in Latin America.

The investment is part of a US$10 million equity round in collaboration with IDB Invest, a multilateral development bank committed to promoting the economic development of its member countries in Latin America and the Caribbean through the private sector.

As Finnfund explains, more than 21 million Mexican households in underserved areas lack adequate internet access, with many in lower socioeconomic tiers. It agrees that significant investments have been made in fibre optic infrastructure but says that these investments have been largely concentrated in high-income urban centres, leaving a significant part of the country underserved.

The aim, therefore, is to broaden Netwey’s fibre optic network, enabling more low-income households to access high-speed internet. Increasing digital connectivity, Finnfund says, supports economic growth, facilitates inclusive access to critical services, and provides possibilities for small businesses to connect with global value chains.

Artificial Intelligence is driving investments in infrastructure of all types, although its direct impact is felt the most with data centers.  But all these new facilities need fiber connectivity, and the high fiber counts and extra diversity hyperscalers were looking for are now just table stakes.  FiberLight is one of the regional fiber specialists looking to meet the next wave of demand.  With us today to talk about FiberLight’s expansion plans and viewpoint on growing demand for fiber from AI is CEO Bill Major.  We talked to Bill a year ago, but it has certainly seemed like a particularly long year. … [visit site to read more]

News

By: Anders Vestergren, Head of Solution Area Network Management at Ericsson

Delivering a “best effort” connection is no longer good enough for today’s mobile customer. Quality of connection, coverage and reliability are hotly demanded, and communication service providers are under pressure to step up, or face subscriber churn as users turn to a network they judge more likely to deliver what’s needed. When it comes to 5G, there’s growing network complexity involved in meeting those demands. However, a new digital glue is set to transform network operations in the coming year, explains Anders Vestergren, Head of Solution Area Network Management, Ericsson.  

Anders Vestergren, Head of Solution Area Network Management at Ericsson

The telecoms industry is caught between a digital rock and a theoretical hard place. There’s a growing need to innovate in ways that boost the development of new, lucrative services. However, network complexities that have arisen as a result of 5G advancement, as well as a lack of ‘killer apps’ to date, has created hesitancy across the market.  

There are also concerns that unstructured innovation could introduce additional layers or offshoots of proprietary technology, which is the last thing that CSPs want. Complexity is already a bar to launching new network products and services; the industry-at-large is therefore looking for ways to simplify and streamline operations as a necessary condition for revitalizing innovation. 

Currently, CSP are committing time and resources to managing the complexities of 5G advancement, while waiting for developers to unlock the innovation that will drive the next phase of 5G’s advancement – they risk being trapped in an endless cycle. They therefore need to find ways to shift their focus and resources from the intricacies of network management and become the innovation drivers themselves, or at least offer more tangible support to those who could make use of telecom networks capabilities to deliver that “killer app”.  

Fortunately, the emergence of radio access network (RAN) automation applications, also known as rApps, could break the logjam and spark the service innovation revolution.  

The digital glue  

rApps are designed to run on the Non-Real Time RAN Intelligent Controller (Non-RT RIC) within a platform aligned with the O-RAN (Open Radio Access Network) framework for open network management and automation, known as SMO (Service Management and Orchestration). Combined, rApps and the platform have the ability to overcome a lack of continuity across the IT estate and act as the digital glue that joins a range of elements together in a coherent and streamlined unit, powered by automation.  

At a basic level, the Open RAN management and automation platform will join together different generations of radio (including Open RAN or Cloud RAN, and purpose built) to deliver unified management in one platform.  

rApps are also a catalyst for bringing together a range of parties within the wider technology community in an ecosystem with a clear objective. Last year, Ericsson introduced an rApp directory for commercially available rApps for use on the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP), the company’s open network management and automation platform for open, multi-vendor and multi-technology networks, supporting all 4G and 5G Radio Access Networks (RAN). The ecosystem around that platform, built for developers and CSPs engaged with the EIAP, contains a software development toolkit and other supporting elements that can be used to develop new high-quality, high-value rApps that meet a CSP’s, or industry use case’, individual requirements. In addition, the directory provides ecosystem members the opportunity to showcase their rApp innovations and offerings, while potential users can discover new rApps, explore their functionality and connect with their owners. 

This combination of resources will enable CSPs to plug the power of the developer community into their business strategies, unlocking game-changing simplicity in automating RAN, and creating dynamic, efficient and responsive networks that are ready to deliver on demanding and specialised use cases. With rApps and their associated ecosystem, a window of opportunity has opened for CSPs to work alongside developers to drive 5G innovation forward.  

A delivery mechanism for AI  

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no stranger to telecoms but the additional levels of testing required by the sector, and specialized industry training required by the various models, has slowed down its widespread implementation. rApps, with defined purposes and objectives, delivered through the open network management platform already deployed on the network, can be seen as a way to implement AI-powered capabilities in a network without onerous integration and adaptations in the existing network set up – once more the digital glue in joining together key elements integral to the success of 5G networks.  

For example, AI-powered rApps currently available can help improve network performance by identifying suboptimal configurations in a RAN more effectively than previously possible. Unlike the earlier generation of tools or manual methods, an application can be written and deployed that doesn’t just compare cell performance to a set of pre-defined KPIs; it will constantly run network-wide pattern analyses and use AI to detect cells that are acting outside of the specification, revealing issues before they start causing degradation. This scale and speed is helping providers improve their networks in near real-time and monitor KPIs. 

Unlocking the future of telecom innovation  

Importantly, rApps enable CSPs to manage and optimise their networks at scale, handling the increasing complexity and diversity of network services and devices. They also facilitate the rapid deployment of new use cases and services, enabling telecom CSPs to innovate and gain a competitive edge. And finally, they can help reduce energy consumption by optimising network operations, contributing to more sustainable network management.  

Taken together, the functionalities supported by rApps will help unleash the full potential of 5G technology as well as opening the industry up to outside developers, who will help make it easier and more efficient for CSPs to better manage network complexity. The result: an across-the-board improvement of network performance for any vendor and any radio technology, providing a common and consistent level of service and customer experience – delivering efficiency gains for the CSP in the first place, and also ensuring these 5G networks are ready to act as a platform for innovative businesses to build monetizable services on.  

Revolutionising network management  

The traditional ways of managing networks, through static configuration planning and human-centric rollout, are no longer capable of delivering the required levels of performance. However, the auguries are good: a growing open ecosystem that supports innovation and the monetisation of new use cases is starting to emerge, with an industry-wide effort to create clean, usable telecom data that can power AI tools, and AI-powered rApps underpinning efficient network operations. 

What is clear is that intelligent automation will be required to manage complexity and meet growing customer expectations while optimising operating costs and capital expenditure. That’s where rApps deliver – these powerful tools enable telecom CSPs to enhance network management, reduce costs and improve the overall performance and sustainability of their networks. All of this can be unlocked by harnessing developer-led innovation.  

The hope of creating a more manageable and agile network, while dealing with the complexities inherent in the current model, is about to become a reality. 

Four expansion projects in four markets, both organic and inorganic, to catch up with: … [visit site to read more]

Distinguished Leader in AI-First Business Transformation Joins from BT, Bharti Airtel

Press Release

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., April 3, 2025 — Equinix, Inc. (Nasdaq: EQIX), the world’s digital infrastructure company®, today announced the appointment of Harmeen Mehta as Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Innovation Officer (CDIO), effective April 4. With 28 years of experience in leading extensive digital transformations within the technology infrastructure sector, Mehta brings substantial expertise to Equinix as the company continues to advance its leadership in digital infrastructure.

“Harmeen is a visionary leader with a proven track record in digital transformation and innovation,” said Adaire Fox-Martin, CEO and President, Equinix. “Her experience in leading complex programs and developing innovative solutions will equip us to better serve our customers and enhance experiences across the organisation. I look forward to her leadership in advancing innovation and value across our ecosystem.

Serving in the new role of CDIO, Mehta will align technology capabilities with business strategy to drive the company’s digital transformation and innovation strategy, leveraging emerging technologies to enhance customer experience, improve operational efficiency and foster innovative business models. She will serve on the Equinix Executive Staff reporting to Equinix CEO and President, Adaire Fox-Martin.

“Equinix is a truly unique company — the hidden layer that enables the innovations that people rely on every day, from video calls and online shopping to the foundational pillars of modern society like food production and drug discovery,” said Mehta. “With an eye on innovation, I look forward to leading Equinix’s transformational journey to deliver even greater opportunities for the thousands of customers that rely upon Equinix every day for their mission-critical digital infrastructure.”

Mehta previously served as Chief Digital and Innovation Officer at BT Group, where she led the digital and AI-driven transformation of the company, significantly enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. Prior to BT, she was Global Chief Information Officer & CEO, Cloud and Security Business at Bharti Airtel Limited, where she led digital transformation initiatives for one of the largest global telecom companies. She has also held senior technology leadership roles at BBVA, Bank of America, Merrill Lynch and HSBC, and she has worked as a consultant to British Airways and Qantas. Mehta currently serves as a non-executive director on the board of Lloyds Banking Group, and as Vice-Chair and Board member of TM Forum.

Mehta is a recognized industry leader having earned numerous distinctions, including: the prestigious MIT Sloan CIO Leadership Award; the TM Forum Global CIO of the Year Award; the Women of the Decade in Innovation & Leadership distinction from the Women Economic Forum; and recognition by the Economic Times as one of the top ten women in the telecom and tech industry globally.

About Equinix

Equinix (Nasdaq: EQIX) is the world’s digital infrastructure company®. Digital leaders harness Equinix’s trusted platform to bring together and interconnect foundational infrastructure at software speed. Equinix enables organizations to access all the right places, partners and possibilities to scale with agility, speed the launch of digital services, deliver world-class experiences and multiply their value, while supporting their sustainability goals.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from expectations discussed in such forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such differences include, but are not limited to, risks to our business and operating results related to the current inflationary environment; foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; stock price fluctuations; availability of power, increased costs to procure power and the general volatility in the global energy market; the challenges of acquiring, operating and constructing IBX® and xScale® data centers and developing, deploying and delivering Equinix products and solutions; delays related to the closing of any planned acquisitions subject to closing conditions; unanticipated costs or difficulties relating to the integration of companies we have acquired or will acquire into Equinix; a failure to receive significant revenues from customers in recently built out or acquired data centers; failure to complete any financing arrangements contemplated from time to time; competition from existing and new competitors; the ability to generate sufficient cash flow or otherwise obtain funds to repay new or outstanding indebtedness; the loss or decline in business from our key customers; risks related to our taxation as a REIT; risks related to regulatory inquiries or litigation; and other risks described from time to time in Equinix filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In particular, see recent and upcoming Equinix quarterly and annual reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, copies of which are available upon request from Equinix. Equinix does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this press release.

News 

Project Kuiper is positioning itself in direct competition with SpaceX’s Starlink, which leads the market with the world’s largest active LEO satellite constellation of over 5,000 satellites 

Amazon has confirmed that it will launch the first satellites of its orbital broadband constellation, Project Kuiper, later this month. 

The mission, dubbed Kuiper Atlas 1 (KA-01), will see 27 satellites launched on a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. The launch is scheduled for no earlier than 9th April. 

This deployment is the start of full-scale production and deployment for Project Kuiper, which aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to underserved regions worldwide. The company plans to deploy a total of over 3,200 LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites in its first constellation. 

Following the initial launch, satellites will deploy into a 280 km parking orbit before reaching their final orbital altitude of 630 km. Once in place, they will travel at over 17,000 mph, orbiting Earth roughly every 90 minutes.  

Amazon plans at least seven additional launches on the Atlas V, 38 launches via ULA’s Vulcan Centaur, and 30+ launches from other providers, including Arianespace, Blue Origin, and SpaceX. 

“We’ve designed some of the most advanced communications satellites ever built, and every launch is an opportunity to add more capacity and coverage to our network,” said Rajeev Badyal, vice president of Project Kuiper in a press release.  

“We’ve done extensive testing on the ground to prepare for this first mission, but there are some things you can only learn in flight, and this will be the first time we’ve flown our final satellite design and the first time we’ve deployed so many satellites at once. No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey, and we have all the pieces in place to learn and adapt as we prepare to launch again and again over the coming years.” 

The company says it expects to begin customer service rollout later this year. 

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Also in the news:
Millions of Brits have no home internet access, Ofcom warns
Connected North launches Data Centre Summit to drive UK’s digital future
Trump announces tariffs on ‘Liberation Day’ at White House

Southeast European media and telecoms operator United Group has completed the sale of Serbian cable TV and broadband provider SBB to e& PPF Telecom for €825 million.

In a statement, United Group described the divestment as “a significant milestone” in its strategy to streamline operations and sharpen its focus on EU markets.

The company also confirmed the sale of sports broadcasting rights for the Western Balkans—covering Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia—to Telekom Serbia.

Both deals, signed on 11 February following regulatory approval, have a combined enterprise value of €1.5 billion.

United Group will retain ownership of its key media outlets in Serbia and is currently negotiating deals for Telemach Sarajevo and Telemach Podgorica. The company stated that it has no plans for further asset sales in the near future.

United Group CEO Victoriya Boklag said previously the divestments enhances efficiency and ensures long-term success for the group. 

Viettel’s Myanmar operator Mytel said on Thursday that it has restored International and mobile connectivity following last week’s 7.7 magnitude earthquake, although questions remain over how much ordinary users can access it in the midst of reported internet shutdowns by the ruling military junta. 

Recovery and rescue efforts are ongoing since the quake struck on March 28 near Mandalay, with the death toll reaching 3,145 as of Thursday, according to the Associated Press. State television broadcaster MRTV reported that 4,589 people were injured and 221 others were missing. 

In a press statement, Mytel said that more than 2,100 base stations were damaged by the quake around Mandalay and Naypyitaw, which are reported to be the hardest hit areas. By April 1, over 90% of its mobile network was up and running again, and international connectivity was fully restored, the statement said.

Mytel also said it has been coordinating with international rescue teams to provide critical communications. The telco said it has supplied nearly 1,000 SIM cards to responders, along with 20,000 additional SIMs and 100 Wi-Fi hot spots to streamline coordination. Mytel said it deployed five extra base stations and optimised 46 existing sites to boost connectivity for field hospitals and search and rescue operations in Mandalay and Naypyitaw.

The operator also said it has provided over 4 million customers free access to 1GB of data, 300 call minutes and 300 SMS messages to reconnect with loved ones and access vital updates. With power outages still widespread, Mytel also said it set up over 500 mobile charging stations across affected regions. 

It’s unclear the extent to which residents can make use of the offer. On March 31, the Myanmar Internet Project (MIP) – an advocacy group documenting internet shutdowns in the country following the 2021 military coup – issued a joint statement with local and international rights groups accusing the military junta of imposing communications blackouts, including internet shutdowns, which were preventing people from coordinating with each other and calling for help. 

The junta has a history of frequently imposing internet shutdowns during its ongoing civil war with rebel pro-democracy forces and ethnic militias. In the province of Sagaing, where the earthquake’s epicentre is located, the junta ordered 94 shutdowns in 2024 alone, according to MIP.

The March 31 statement from MIP demanded that the junta restore all internet and communications services to ensure full access, and called for the military to be “held accountable for all loss of life and suffering caused by these various internet restrictions.”

A statement from MIP on Thursday reported that telcos in Myanmar are providing free services for phone calls and text messages between operators, but that “while telecommunications services are available in one area, it has been difficult to use them in other areas.”

The group urged telecoms operators to provide free assistance by enabling phone calls between any operators.

Amazon’s Project Kuiper has announced it will finally launch its first batch of LEO satellites next week, almost one year behind schedule, with more launches already booked and commercial services expected to kick off later this year.

According to a blog post from Amazon on Wednesday, United Launch Alliance (ULA) will launch the first 27 Kuiper satellites on an Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida on April 9. The satellites, launched under the mission name “KA-01” (Kuiper Atlas 1), will be placed in orbit around 450 kilometres above the Earth.

The initial Kuiper constellation will comprise over 3,200 LEO satellites. Amazon said it has secured more than 80 launches to deploy the remaining satellites over the next few years, including seven more Atlas V launches and 38 Vulcan Centaur launches with ULA, plus an additional 30+ launches with Arianespace, Amazon-owned Blue Origin and SpaceX.

Amazon has been testing its LEO broadband service on two prototype satellites launched in October 2023. The company said the satellites being launched this Wednesday have been upgraded “to improve the performance of every system and sub-system on board, including phased array antennas, processors, solar arrays, propulsion systems, and optical inter-satellite links.”

Amazon added that the satellites are also coated in a dielectric mirror film that scatters reflected sunlight to help make them less visible to ground-based astronomers.

“We’ve done extensive testing on the ground to prepare for this first mission, but there are some things you can only learn in flight, and this will be the first time we’ve flown our final satellite design and the first time we’ve deployed so many satellites at once,” said Project Kuiper VP Rajeev Badyal in the blog post. “No matter how the mission unfolds, this is just the start of our journey, and we have all the pieces in place to learn and adapt as we prepare to launch again and again over the coming years.”

Project Kuiper was originally scheduled to start launching satellites in the first half of 2024. In July that year, the launch date was pushed back to October 2024, and then again to early 2025 after ULA bumped the Amazon launch to prioritise two missions for the US Space Force.

According to Space News, Amazon has little room for further delays, as its FCC licence requires it to deploy half the constellation by July 2026, and the full constellation by July 2029.

Meanwhile, Amazon said it has already begun shipping and processing satellites for the KA-02 mission, which will also use a ULA Atlas V rocket and launch from Cape Canaveral, although no launch date has been given.