Today’s telecom news includes announcements Marvell Technology, American Airlines, AT&T, Telenor Group, Pakistan Telecommunication, among others.
Marvell Accelerates AI Connectivity with $540 mn XConn Acquisition
Marvell Technology announced a $540 million acquisition of networking equipment firm XConn Technologies, using about 60 percent cash and 40 percent stock, to accelerate expansion into AI infrastructure and data‑center connectivity. The deal strengthens Marvell’s networking portfolio with XConn’s PCIe and CXL switching silicon and adds specialized engineering talent, enhancing performance and product breadth for customers building advanced AI systems. This strategic investment aims to improve data transfer speeds and scalability in next‑generation AI and cloud data centers, addressing growing customer demand. Marvell expects XConn to begin contributing to sales and profit by fiscal 2027 and generate around $100 million in revenue by 2028.
American Airlines Launches Free In-Flight Wi‑Fi for Loyalty Members
American Airlines will offer free in-flight Wi‑Fi to members of its AAdvantage loyalty program, starting January 2026 through a partnership with AT&T. The phased rollout aims to cover nearly all flights by early spring, enhancing the onboard experience for frequent flyers and boosting loyalty engagement amid competition from carriers like Delta and United, which provide complimentary internet to their own loyalty members. Free high-speed connectivity reflects changing customer expectations, making internet access a standard service rather than a premium feature. The move builds on American’s prior investments in satellite-based Wi‑Fi infrastructure and strengthens its loyalty ecosystem.
Telenor Exits Pakistan: PTCL Steps in to Strengthen Telecom Footprint
Telenor Group has completed the sale of Telenor Pakistan to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), marking a full exit after years of regulatory and market challenges. The deal, valued around 5.3 billion Norwegian kroner on a cash‑and‑debt‑free basis, reflects Telenor’s strategic move to focus investment on more predictable markets amid tough business conditions in Pakistan, including currency volatility and economic uncertainty. PTCL’s acquisition boosts its position as the second‑largest telecom operator and could accelerate network development and 5G rollout, though consolidation raises competition concerns and potential impacts on pricing and customer choice.
SHAFANA FAZAL
