Today’s telecom news includes announcements on ZTE, Midco, Switch, Nokia, C Spire, among others.
ZTE Accelerates AI-Native Telecom Transformation Across Latin America
ZTE showcased its AI-driven telecom vision at GSMA M360 LATAM 2026 in Mexico City, emphasizing the integration of AI and network infrastructure to help operators unlock new business models. The company highlighted its AI-Native network architecture, revealing that its latest 5G BBU solutions can boost cell throughput by 20 percent while cutting energy consumption by 38 percent through intelligent optimization. ZTE also announced that over 37,000 AI-enabled AAU and RRU units have been deployed across Brazil, Chile, Peru, Ecuador, and Bolivia, helping operators lower power costs and improve efficiency. The vendor further promoted its AIR Net autonomous network platform and rural connectivity collaborations with Millicom and Claro across Latin America.
AI Boom Fuels Massive 400G Network Expansion in Landmark Midco-Switch Deal
Midco and Switch have signed a historic five-year agreement to build one of the largest 400G connectivity networks supporting AI infrastructure in the United States. The partnership will deploy over 500 individual 400Gbps circuits across geographically diverse routes linking Ellendale, North Dakota, and Chicago, creating a massive 200-terabit capacity network. Midco said the deployment reinforces its leadership in high-capacity 400G services, while Switch noted the infrastructure was critical in securing a multibillion-dollar customer contract. The project will use Nokia optical networking technology to deliver scalable, resilient, and ultra-high-speed connectivity for hyperscalers, cloud providers, and AI-driven data centers, accelerating digital infrastructure growth across the Midwest.
C Spire Shakes Up Telecom Market with Game-Changing ‘One Plan’ for Wireless and Fiber
C Spire has launched “The One Plan,” a fully converged wireless and fiber offering aimed at simplifying connectivity for both existing and new customers. Starting at $99 per month, the plan combines unlimited wireless service, fiber internet, one bill, and a single customer support experience. The package also includes a five-year price lock, unrestricted hotspot access, and no surprise overage charges. Unlike many bundled telecom offerings, C Spire extends full device promotions and wireless features to existing subscribers as well. CEO Suzy Hays said the initiative focuses on customer convenience rather than traditional bundle limitations. The launch reflects growing demand for unified telecom services across home and mobile networks.
SHAFANA FAZAL