Feature Week: Trump on Telecoms

Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025 has ushered in a new era for US telecoms and technology policy. His administration has wasted no time in making major changes, with key moves including the appointment of Brendan Carr as Federal Communications Commission chair and proposals for greater control over platforms like TikTok.

With a focus on deregulation, free speech, and national security, Trump’s policy decisions are set to redefine the telecoms landscape that President Biden’s administration has presided over since 2020.

Let’s take a look at what’s happened so far.

2024

5th November – Trump win election to become President of the United States
Donald Trump wins the 2024 US Presidential Election, suggesting significant shifts are to come in telecoms and tech policy.

17^th November – Brendan Carr nominated for FCC chair
Trump names Brendan Carr as FCC chair. Carr, a notable critic of Big Tech and opponent of net neutrality, has been a commissioner since 2017. His appointment suggests a potential shift towards deregulation for telecoms operators, but scrutiny for major tech players like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

22^nd November – Carr puts BEAD’s future up for debate
Carr suggests an “important discussion” about the program (BEAD)’s future is needed, given that the lion’s share of the money has not been spent.

2025

20th January – Trump sworn in
Trump was inaugurated for his second term, and Brendan Carr officially became FCC chair.

21t January – Trump delays decision over TikTok ban
Trump signs an Executive Order giving ByteDance more time to find a new owner before a shutdown. He had previously proposed the US government take a 50% stake in TikTok to address security concerns, though many Republicans pushed for a full divestiture by the company’s Chinese owners. “Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it,” said Trump.

21^st January – New FCC commissioner named
Olivia Trusty is nominated to serve on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by President Donald Trump. Trump says Trusty and Carr will work together to “cut regulations at a record pace.”

22^nd January – Trump backs $500bn AI project ‘Stargate’
The president praised a new joint venture between OpenAI, SoftBank, Oracle, and MGX that promises $500 billion in AI investment, with the first $100 billion to be invested this year.

23^rd January – Ericsson CTO bullish on tech support from Trump administration
Industry leaders such as Ericsson’s CTO expressed optimism about Trump’s policies at the World Economic Forum in Davos, expecting additional support for 5G and AI advancements. “The opportunities just seem fantastic right now to put in an extra gear and then make sure that we are part of that (AI), says CTO Erik Ekudden.

23^rd January – FCC reinstates complaints about 2024 election coverage
Ex-FCC chair Jessica Rosenworcel had previously dismissed complaints about election coverage from NBC, ABC, and CBS, describing them as attempts to ‘weaponise the FCC’.

27^th January – Trump fires Cyber Safety Review Board members
The CSRB advisory committee, serving the Department of Homeland Security, was set up to investigate cybersecurity and digital espionage incidents, most recently the massive ‘Salt Typhoon’ cyberattacks carried out by China-liked hackers. The CSRB committee was one of many disbanded by the new administration.

Join us at Connected America, 11-12 March in Texas. Get discounted tickets here!

Also in the news:
EXA Infrastructure enters into agreement to acquire Aqua Comms
“European competitiveness has one foot in the morgue,” warns Nokia CEO
BT quietly scraps EV charging pilot

Two interesting items touching legacy infrastructure in the US, some renewable energy, and a data center in a market we don’t hear about much: … [visit site to read more]

Indonesian telco Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison says it has formed a partnership with Vietnam-based electric taxi service Xanh SM to create smart mobility solutions leveraging ICT, IoT and analytics for Xanh SM’s new taxi fleet in the country.

Xanh SM – which is owned by Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup – launched its electric taxi service in Vietnam in March 2024 and currently operates in over 59 provinces. It has since expanded operations into Laos and, as of last month, Indonesia.

Under a partnership deal announced on Thursday, Indosat will provide Xanh SM with a connectivity solution through its card management platform, including Cisco IoT Control Center, to provide flexible control and monitoring of SIM cards for taxis and specially tailored mobile packages for Xanh SM drivers.

Indosat will also provide IoT solutions for monitoring critical driving metrics such as speed, acceleration, and behavior that can help identify anomalies or potential vehicle issues to ensure safety and efficiency.

The smart mobility solution will also leverage big data analytics for customer profiling and behavior analysis, which Indosat said will enable targeted campaigns and programs to elevate the customer experience.

Indosat and Xanh SM will start with an initial six-month pilot testing phase to explore and refine solutions, followed by a comprehensive rollout in subsequent stages.

“By leveraging the ICT, IoT, and analytics technology offered by Indosat, we can enhance operational efficiency while delivering services that positively impact both customers and the environment,” said Nguyen Van Thanh, global CEO of Xanh SM, in a statement.

Indosat and Xanh SM also talked up the eco-friendly aspects of the tie-up, as Xanh SM says its fleet of electric taxis is equipped with energy-efficient technology that reduces carbon emissions and serves as a model for sustainable transportation solutions. Indosat said the partnership is “expected not only to enhance Indosat’s customer experience through high-quality transportation but also to inspire the transportation sector to adopt more innovative and eco-friendly solutions.”

Indosat isn’t alone in chasing the connected-car/EV dollar. In September 2024, Telkomsel Enterprise struck a partnership with automaker Toyota-Astra Motor to integrate IoT and in-car Wi-Fi into Toyota’s “T Intouch” telematics app for its latest generation of Fortuner SUVs.

The same month, Telkomsel Enterprise also signed an MoU with EV manufacturer Mobil Anak Bangsa Indonesia (MAB) to « jointly develop a more integrated and environmentally friendly EV ecosystem. » Under that deal, Telkomsel will provide connectivity, services and tech solutions, including IoT and broadband, to improve the operational efficiency of EVs.

The 45,000 kilometre 2Africa subsea cable systems interconnecting Europe, Asia and Africa is back in the news again, this time thanks to an announcement from Telecom Egypt and Cisco.

Egyptian service provider Telecom Egypt, which is also one of the largest subsea cable operators in the region, has announced the activation of a Mediterranean subsea link on the 2Africa subsea cable system.

The project has taken place in collaboration with networking and security technologies giant Cisco. Using Cisco’s Network Convergence System (NCS), the link creates a high-capacity connection between Port Said in Egypt and Marseille in France via Genoa in Italy.

As Telecom Egypt points out, the exponential growth of capacity-intensive applications such as cloud and AI services in the region is fuelling demand for expanded subsea network capacity, which in turn requires advanced coherent transmission systems of high performance.

This project, says Telecom Egypt, enables it to maximise the potential of its subsea assets on the 2Africa subsea cable, enhancing the efficiency of its cable operations and boosting international traffic capacity.

Along with Cisco’s cutting-edge NCS, the system offers data transmission powered by optical interconnect products specialist Acacia’s multi-haul coherent module, delivering high performance with less power per bit.

Telecom Egypt explains that the system allows network operators to enhance capacity across any cable, enabling precise adjustments to optical transmission signal bandwidth, modulation format and spectral efficiency.

Mohamed Nasr, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Telecom Egypt, says: “By enhancing the capacity of our well-established subsea infrastructure, we are meeting the surging demand for bandwidth-intensive services such as cloud computing and AI across the Mediterranean and beyond.” He adds: “Looking ahead, we aim to unlock even more of our potential by developing new projects and launching innovative products and services.”

News

To date, around 4.3 million connections have been made possible through federal gigabit funding 

The German Federal Ministry for Digital Affairs and Transport (BMDV) has launched its 2025 Gigabit Funding programme. Starting this month, €1.2 billion will be available to support infrastructure projects and a pilot programmes to close connectivity gaps in underserved areas. 

This year’s funding round is centred on the 2025 infrastructure funding programme, which includes both a standard funding process and a quicker “fast lane” option. The criteria and rules for applying remain largely the same as last year, providing stability for states, municipalities, and applicants.  

The funding round also includes the continuation of a pilot programme designed to improve internet access in smaller regions that have been left out of gigabit expansion so far. With a simplified application process, this programme aims to develop these areas quickly, making use of both public and private funding to ensure the best results. 

“Digitalisation requires high-performance, resilient and future-proof networks. Fiber optic technology enables particularly fast, energy-efficient and reliable data communication. In this legislative period, we have made great progress in fibee optic expansion – thanks to the high dynamics in the market and our targeted funding,” said Federal Minister Dr. Volker Wissing in a press release (translated). 

“Even in a difficult budget situation, we are keeping our ambitious gigabit expansion goals firmly in sight: We continue to support regions in which private expansion is reaching its limits and thus create digital participation for everyone. Our goals set out in the gigabit strategy remain clear – nationwide gigabit supply by 2030, a clear focus on private sector expansion and targeted funding measures as a supplement,” he continued. 

In 2022, around 560 projects were approved, with €2 billion invested in expanding fibre optic networks. This helped provide more than 440,000 connections and helped around 1,700 communities.  

Is Germany’s fibre network expansion moving quickly enough? Join us at this year’s Connected Germany event in Munich to discuss the sectors biggest challenges and opportunities! Find our more here 

Also in the news:
BT pushes for accelerated withdrawal from “outdated” copper landline network as faults rise
Boldyn takes first steps in Germany with Smart Mobile Labs acquisition
VMO2 deploys more small cells in Birmingham with Ontix

News 

BT has urged the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) providers to accelerate plans to transition away from the ageing Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), warning that the outdated system poses growing risks to essential services 

Increasingly fragile and difficult to maintain, the PSTN saw a 45% rise in major resilience incidents last year, according to Ofcom’s Connected Nations report.  

BT warns that delays in migrating to digital connectivity could disrupt critical systems such as fire alarms, lift phones, and even water monitoring sensors.  

Industries like energy and water are leading the way in the transition away from the PSTN, with 80% and 64%, respectively, of BT’s customers in these sectors having already put a transition plan in place.  

However, 60% of the operator’s CNI customers have yet to develop a transition plan.  

“With the ageing copper landline network becoming increasingly fragile, it’s simply too risky to run the UK’s essential public services on outdated networks. BT is committed to moving these services onto future-proofed modern connectivity well ahead of the closure of the analogue copper network – but we can’t do it alone,” said BT CEO Bas Burger in a press release. 

“We’re urging all Critical National Infrastructure providers to act now to help protect their services and reap the long-term benefits of going digital. Waiting until the analogue switch-off is too late. We’re working with customers to review their technology estate, test their critical devices and switch to more reliable connectivity by the end of 2025,” he continued. 

To support the shift, BT’s specialists are helping organisations review technology, test device compatibility, and migrate to digital systems. The government has also introduced the PSTN Critical National Infrastructure Charter, to make sure of safeguards for essential services during the transition.  

The move to digital networks offers a range of benefits. Faster broadband speeds, better security, and features like scam prevention and integrated calling across devices. 

Is the UK’s rollout of next-generation moving quickly enough to support the UK’s digital economy? Join the discussion at Connected North, live in Manchester 

Keep up to date with the latest international telecoms news by subscribing to the Total Telecom daily newsletter   

Also in the news:
EXA Infrastructure enters into agreement to acquire Aqua Comms
“European competitiveness has one foot in the morgue,” warns Nokia CEO
BT quietly scraps EV charging pilot 

We all know how we got to this modern world of infrastructure in 2025. Or do we? Most of the real stories behind the rise of the fiber business never make it into the public sphere. But in less than two weeks we’re going to be treated to a whole lot more of them when Dan Caruso’s new book drops. … [visit site to read more]

Press Release

Boldyn Networks (Boldyn), one of the largest shared network infrastructure providers in the world, cements its position as a leading global mobile private networks player through the agreement to acquire Smart Mobile Labs (SML), Germany’s market leader in bespoke private 5G networks and turnkey applications.

The addition of SML will immediately expand Boldyn’s footprint, placing the business with a track record of over 110 mobile private network (MPN) implementations across the five largest European economies, in addition to the US. The strategic acquisition enhances Boldyn’s technical knowledge for critical sectors, tailored use cases, and the further development of its Private 5G as a Service offering, the first of its kind in the industry. Read the full press release here.

Justin Berger, Group Chief Strategy Officer at Boldyn Networks said: “Germany is a very attractive market for mobile private networks. By bringing Smart Mobile Labs’ expertise to Boldyn, we’ll be able to scale our existing private networks expertise to benefit customers looking for a partner of choice across a wider area of Europe.” He continued: “The SML leadership team comes with a combined 100 years of experience in engineering and technology, adding to our talented team at Boldyn.”

Igor Leprince, Group Chief Executive Officer at Boldyn Networks said: “At Boldyn we have been leading the way in reimagining customers’ digital transformations through dynamic private 4G and 5G networks. As an important player in the fast-rising private network ecosystem Smart Mobile Labs will support our expansion in the top five markets in Europe and globally. SML comes with an impressive customer base across key sectors for us, which rely on their strong technical capabilities, innovation, and a market-leading partner network.”

Klaus Nagora, CEO & Founder of Smart Mobile Labs said: “Joining Boldyn Networks in their global growth journey is exciting for us and for our customers. Not only will we be able to scale our private network and EVO offerings inside of Germany, but worldwide, now with the backing of a neutral host portfolio leader and a global team of experts. We share Boldyn’s focus on developing bold solutions that can solve our customers’ needs. It’s in our DNA to be ahead of such needs.”

Rüdiger Hnyk, COO of Smart Mobile Labs said: “SML and Boldyn together will become a major player for private 5G offerings in Europe. We will now be able to offer the most experienced and most practical references for specialised market solutions. From remote driven trains and container handling solutions for logistics storage, to autonomous driving and valet parking, safety applications like “5G drone patrol”, and video camera control solutions for airports, our joint capabilities will be best suited to cover the growing demands of a variety of sectors successfully.”

How is the German telecoms sector evolving in 2025? Join the indutry in discussion at Connected Germany

Also in the news:
EXA Infrastructure enters into agreement to acquire Aqua Comms
“European competitiveness has one foot in the morgue,” warns Nokia CEO
BT quietly scraps EV charging pilot 

While the growth of 5G private networks in Africa may not so far have been as spectacular as some operators had hoped, such networks are certainly gaining traction in South Africa, as a recent agreement signed by operators MTN and China Telecom and tech giant Huawei seems to indicate.

The three major telecommunications names recently signed an agreement to deploy a state-of-the-art 5G private network for a leading (and so far unnamed) manganese mining company in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

The 5G private network will, we are told, provide ultra-reliable, high-speed connectivity – and lots of it – enabling applications such as personnel surveillance, vehicle tracking and unmanned trucks. This, Huawei says, will not only enhance efficiency but also improve workplace safety.

Beyond operational enhancements, by optimising energy consumption and resource management, the technology aligns with international environmental standards, positioning the mine as a leader in sustainable mining.

As Huawei points out, this initiative also marks a significant milestone in advancing the 5G-to-Business (5GtoB) ecosystem, showcasing a successful collaborative model between three industry leaders.

Huawei has provided an end-to-end 5G private network tailored to meet the unique demands of mining operations; MTN has contributed its infrastructure and expertise in network integration and operations; and China Telecom has leveraged its global expertise in vertical industries, providing advanced system integration and innovative digital solutions.

So does this partnership – a collaboration that will involve Africa’s largest 5G private network in the mining sector –  demonstrate the potential of 5G to drive industrial transformation in Africa, as Huawei suggests?

Certainly the promise of smarter, safer and more sustainable mining operations as well as better resource management and addressing of global supply chain demands sounds like a step forward in a key industry.

But it’s not the only target industry on MTN’s list. It was in November last year that we reported that MTN South Africa had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China Telecom Global and Huawei to develop digital infrastructure across MTN’s African footprint.

Building on its strategic partnership with Huawei, MTN is already rapidly expanding its 5G private network business across a growing range of industries, including mining, oil and gas, ports, manufacturing, and education – and, of course, MTN is also extending its 5G presence to more countries in Africa.

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