Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Black & Veatch, Mobile, AST SpaceMobile, Vodafone, iSON, among others.
Black & Veatch Highlights Utility Opportunity from T-Mobile’s 800 MHz Spectrum Sale
Black & Veatch is highlighting new opportunities for U.S. utilities following the completion of Grain Management’s acquisition of T-Mobile’s 800 MHz spectrum portfolio. Grain plans to make the Band 26 spectrum available to utilities, enterprises and next-generation direct-to-device satellite providers. The nationwide low-band asset is positioned for private LTE and 5G networks supporting grid modernization, mission-critical communications, security and emergency response. With 14 MHz of available bandwidth across most markets, the spectrum offers a combination of coverage, capacity and reliability suited to utility operations. Black & Veatch will continue advising utilities on spectrum ownership and deploying private wireless networks. The transaction could expand access to dedicated licensed spectrum as utilities modernize communications infrastructure and build more resilient digital grids.
AST SpaceMobile Plans UK Direct-to-Cell Service Using Vodafone’s Mobile Spectrum
AST SpaceMobile has notified the U.S. Federal Communications Commission of planned direct-to-cell operations in the United Kingdom using spectrum supplied by Vodafone. The filing, dated August 11, identifies Vodafone as the mobile network partner and relies on an Ofcom demonstration and trial license. AST plans to use the 880.1-885.1 MHz uplink and 925.1-930.1 MHz downlink bands for direct-to-cell communications, with satellite gateways providing backhaul to terrestrial networks. The arrangement requires operations to remain within spectrum licensed to the mobile operator and includes commitments to deactivate satellite beams if verified harmful interference occurs. The filing does not announce a commercial launch date, and Ofcom’s trial license does not authorize commercial service.
iSON Targets $300 Million Philippine Telecom Expansion
Dubai-based technology infrastructure company iSON plans to invest $300 million in the Philippines, with more than 3,000 telecommunications towers and other digital infrastructure projects planned nationwide. The Department of Finance said the investment is intended to improve connectivity and expand access to reliable telecommunications and digital services. iSON has already deployed about $65 million, representing roughly 22 percent of the planned investment, to build 450 towers. The company is also pursuing additional projects with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, including a $50 million modern agriculture initiative and large-scale agro-solar developments. The telecom investment is expected to strengthen network infrastructure while supporting broader digital connectivity and infrastructure development across the Philippines.
SHAFANA FAZAL