Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Travelxp, Bouygues Telecom, Sotel, Airtel, Nokia, and others.
Travelxp HD Lands in France with Bouygues Telecom in First-Ever Carriage Deal
Travelxp has made its official entry into the French television market with the launch of Travelxp HD on Bouygues Telecom, securing its first carriage agreement in the country. The travel and lifestyle channel are now available nationwide to Bouygues’ Bbox subscribers as part of the operator’s Basic TV package. The launch features a dedicated French feed offering thousands of hours of high-definition travel content, highlighting global destinations, cultures, and experiences. This move marks a significant step in Travelxp’s European expansion strategy and reflects rising viewer interest in premium travel and lifestyle programming. For Bouygues Telecom, the addition strengthens its content lineup and enhances the overall appeal of its IPTV offering.
Chad Orders Rapid Rollout of Strategic Fiber Link to Cameroon
Chad’s government has instructed telecom operators Sotel and Airtel to fast-track the long-delayed N’Djamena–Mberé fiber-optic link connecting the country to Cameroon. The cross-border project is critical for providing Chad, a landlocked nation, with access to international submarine cable systems and improving network reliability. Progress had slowed after the telecom regulator suspended the initial memorandum of understanding, citing concerns over digital sovereignty and national interests. The Minister of Posts and Digital Economy, Dr. Boukar Michel, has now urged operators to revise the agreement and accelerate implementation, highlighting the urgency of strengthening connectivity, boosting internet capacity, and improving service quality nationwide.
Nokia’s ₹570 Crore Mega R&D Lab Puts Tamil Nadu on the Global Telecom Map
Tamil Nadu has strengthened its position as a global telecom innovation centre with the launch of Nokia’s largest fixed‑network research and development facility at SIPCOT Siruseri, Chennai. The lab, established under a 2024 MoU between the Tamil Nadu government and Nokia, focuses on next‑generation broadband technologies including 10G to 100G optical networks, fixed wireless access, and advanced broadband solutions. Nokia is investing ₹270 crore in the first phase, with an additional ₹300 crore planned, reflecting confidence in India as a key technology hub. The facility will serve as a global testbed and create over 200 high‑end tech jobs.
Shafana Fazal