Today’s telecom news includes announcements on The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), Nokia, Deutsche Bahn (DB), Ericsson, among others.
Breakthrough Alert: ETRI Achieves Voice Communication 100 Meters Underground
The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in South Korea has developed a magnetic‑field‑based wireless system that can transmit and receive voice signals up to 100 meters underground, a global first. This technology overcomes traditional barriers in mines and tunnels where conventional radio waves fail. Using a low‑frequency magnetic field with a 1‑meter-wide transmitting antenna and small receiver, it operates around 15 kHz with data rates suitable for voice communication. Tested in limestone bedrock, the system promises reliable underground contact for rescue operations, disaster response, and military communication, offering a significant advancement in environments where standard wireless signals cannot reach.
Revolution on the Rails: Nokia Powers First 1900 MHz 5G Call on Deutsche Bahn Test Track
Nokia has successfully completed the world’s first live 5G call over a 1900 MHz (n101) 5G radio network on an outdoor railway test track operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB). The trial used Nokia’s 5G standalone (SA) solution supporting Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) standards, designed for mission‑critical connectivity between trains and infrastructure. This milestone demonstrates real‑world feasibility of the technology on a live track, highlighting the rail industry’s shift from legacy GSM‑R to next‑generation 5G communications.
India’s 5G Boom: Ericsson Eyes Steady Growth Amid Network Upgrades
Ericsson says India is moving from rapid 5G rollout to a phase of sustained, incremental growth as telcos shift focus toward monetisation, AI capabilities, and network upgrades following one of the world’s fastest deployments. According to the company, Indian networks already cover over 90 percent of the population and are now entering a cycle of capacity enhancements and modernisation. While growth contributions to Ericsson’s global sales have eased, executives highlight opportunities in network slicing, APIs, and advanced services that could create new revenue streams.
SHAFANA FAZAL