The latest telecom news includes announcements on Gateway Fiber, satellite connectivity for Apple iPhone 14 and 15, MTN, Vodafone Idea, among others.
Gateway Fiber Brings High-Speed Fiber Internet to Elk River and Otsego, MN
Gateway Fiber is expanding its fiber-optic internet service to Elk River and Otsego, Minnesota. Construction began in September 2025, and service is expected to be available for most residents by 2026. The expansion will provide internet access to homes and businesses in these areas. The service uses fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology, which delivers higher bandwidth capacity compared to cable or copper networks, supporting faster and stable internet connections. Gateway Fiber’s expansion reflects broader trends in the telecom industry, where providers are deploying fiber-optic networks to enhance connectivity and meet growing data demands.
Apple Expands Satellite Connectivity for iPhone 14 and 15, Boosting Off-Grid Communication
Apple has extended its free satellite connectivity service for iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 users. The Emergency SOS via satellite feature, initially free for two years, had its free period extended once in 2023 and now again, moving the potential billing start date to November 2026 for devices activated in supported countries before September 9, 2025. With iOS 18, Apple added satellite capabilities for text communication off-grid. The Apple Watch Ultra 3 will also include satellite connectivity. Apple’s satellite services cover Emergency SOS via satellite, Messages via satellite, Find Me via satellite, and Roadside Assistance via satellite. These features operate when users are in supported areas without Wi-Fi or cellular coverage. Apple partners with Globalstar for satellite connectivity.
MTN Focuses on Fiber Growth, AI, and 5G Instead of Acquiring Telkom
MTN Group confirmed it is not pursuing an acquisition of Telkom, South Africa’s largest fiber infrastructure owner. CEO Ralph Mupita stated there are no active discussions with Telkom. MTN plans to expand its fiber network through strategic partnerships or acquisitions rather than duplicating existing infrastructure. The company aims to increase home connectivity by leveraging existing fiber networks efficiently. Telecom operators are sharing towers and fiber networks to reduce costs and expand coverage in areas with limited connectivity. MTN’s strategy focuses on increasing fiber availability through targeted growth rather than full acquisitions.
Vodafone Idea Moves Supreme Court to Cut AGR Dues Amid Telecom Crunch
Vodafone Idea has filed a new plea in the AGR (Adjusted Gross Revenue) case in the Supreme Court, requesting a reduction in dues and an extension of the payment timeline. The plea comes as telecom operators in India face financial challenges due to high spectrum costs, regulatory requirements, and debt obligations. The AGR case requires operators to pay dues based on revenue calculations including non-core income. Vodafone Idea argued that compliance with the original dues schedule is difficult given the current financial situation and seeks clarity on repayment terms and reduction in penalties, CNBC TV18 reports.
Shafana Fazal
