Today’s telecom news includes announcements on AST SpaceMobile, Singtel, Ericsson, Asiacell, Samsung Electronics, VEON, Rubicon Wireless, among others.
Singtel and Ericsson Sign Five-Year Partnership to Advance AI-Native 5G Networks
Singtel and Ericsson have announced a five-year strategic partnership to advance Singapore’s 5G capabilities, accelerate AI-native applications and improve connectivity for consumers and enterprises. The agreement builds on their collaboration in establishing a nationwide 5G standalone network and introducing capabilities such as network slicing and differentiated connectivity services. The companies are also targeting more intelligent network operations through artificial intelligence. A recent live-network trial of AI-powered radio access network capabilities demonstrated a 19 percent improvement in throughput, highlighting opportunities to optimise radio resources and manage increasing data traffic. The expanded partnership will focus on scaling 5G innovation and developing more reliable, intelligent connectivity, supporting enterprise digitalisation and emerging applications across Singapore’s communications ecosystem.
Asiacell and Samsung Partner to Expand Device Access Across Iraq
Iraqi telecom operator Asiacell has signed a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics Levant to expand consumer and business access to Samsung devices, services and technology solutions. The agreement builds on an existing relationship and introduces trade-in programmes, financing and instalment options, exclusive bundles, e-commerce initiatives and joint marketing activities. The companies will also develop tailored business-to-business solutions and identify opportunities to serve organisations across different sectors. A Samsung Certified Sales Consultant Programme will strengthen product knowledge among sales teams, helping customers make more informed purchasing decisions. The partnership combines Samsung’s technology portfolio with Asiacell’s market reach to improve device availability and affordability while supporting wider adoption of digital technologies among consumers and enterprises throughout Iraq.
VEON Acquires Uzbekistan’s Rubicon Wireless for $207 Million to Expand 5G
VEON, the parent company of Ukrainian telecom operator Kyivstar, has agreed to acquire 100 percent of Uzbekistan-based Rubicon Wireless in a transaction valued at approximately $207 million, including debt. Around $93 million of the amount represents outstanding debt associated with the business, which VEON plans to finance using its own resources. The acquisition will provide 115 MHz of spectrum across the 850 MHz and 3,800 MHz bands, together with an operational 5G standalone network built using Nokia equipment. VEON intends to integrate the infrastructure with its existing Beeline Uzbekistan operations, potentially increasing its available spectrum by approximately 50 percent. The deal is expected to strengthen mobile broadband and fixed wireless access services, with completion anticipated by the end of October 2026.