Today’s telecom news includes announcements on NETGEAR, AT&T, Qualcomm, Ericsson, U Mobile, Huawei, ZTE, Deutsche Telekom, SpaceX, Verizon, among others.
NETGEAR and AT&T Launch Wi-Fi 7 5G Hotspot for Business Connectivity
NETGEAR and AT&T Business have expanded their collaboration with the launch of the Nighthawk 5G M8 Pro mobile hotspot, exclusively available to AT&T Business customers in North America. Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X85 5G modem, the device combines AT&T’s nationwide 5G network with tri-band Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, supporting up to 64 connected devices and wireless speeds of up to 5.8 Gbps. Designed for field teams, remote professionals and first responders, it includes enterprise-grade security, cloud-based remote management and a removable 5,185 mAh battery offering up to 12 hours of operation. The device is priced at $479.99, with retail availability planned for February 2027.
Malaysia Urged to Enforce Vendor Diversity Across Dual 5G Networks
Industry analysts have urged Malaysia to introduce mandatory vendor diversification requirements across its two 5G networks to strengthen cybersecurity and reduce dependence on common equipment suppliers. The country’s dual-network structure involves Digital Nasional Berhad, which uses Ericsson equipment, and U Mobile, which selected Huawei and ZTE for its 5G rollout. Analysts argue that maintaining different technology suppliers would provide multinational businesses with greater flexibility to meet cybersecurity requirements across international operations. The proposal also highlights concerns about both networks potentially converging around similar infrastructure vendors. Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Commission is expected to consider formal procurement requirements and compliance measures to ensure continued supplier diversity.
Deutsche Telekom Warns SpaceX Entry Could Intensify US Telecom Competition
Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Hoettges has warned that SpaceX’s potential entry into the US mobile market could increase competition, weaken pricing power and reduce long-term profitability for established telecom operators. He said investors were already accounting for the threat, reflected in declining valuations of Deutsche Telekom, Verizon and AT&T over the previous six months. SpaceX would require substantial investment and time to establish a nationwide terrestrial network, although its satellite capabilities could create a different competitive business model. Hoettges also stressed that satellite connectivity cannot fully replace terrestrial networks, particularly for urban and indoor coverage. Deutsche Telekom wants alternatives to Starlink to prevent dependence on a single satellite provider.
