DSIT’s Future Network Programmes: Advanced manufacturing

As the Future Network Programmes conclude, UKTIN is working with DSIT to reflect on the government-funded projects, outlining the key outcomes and the lessons learned to help improve future telecoms initiatives. 

The manufacturing sector is a critical part of the UK economy, with reports suggesting that accelerating the adoption of Industry 4.0 solutions could provide a £15 billion boost to economic output by 2035. AI, VR and other technologies - underpinned by connectivity - will be an essential part of the sector’s transformation.

Nokia lands and begins validation of first cellular network on the Moon

Nokia has delivered the first cellular network to the Moon and validated ‘key aspects’ of the network’s operation, though making the first lunar cellular call remains an elusive milestone.

Nokia Bell Labs’ Lunar Surface Communications System (LSCS) landed on the Moon aboard the Athena lander and transmitted operational data back to Earth. The wider intention of the project is to prove the viability of cellular technologies for critical communications on future lunar missions.

Quickline Launches Virtual Work Experience Portal for Young People across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire

Young people across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire now have access to a new virtual work experience portal designed to help them explore career opportunities, develop key skills, and gain real-world insights into different industries.

The platform, launched by rural broadband provider Quickline in partnership with creative education specialist Engaging Education, coincides with National Careers Week (March 3-8), a nationwide initiative promoting career education and guidance.

Telefónica opens a dedicated Centre of Excellence for quantum technologies

The company is implementing a strategy across the board beginning with crypto-agility and post-quantum cybersecurity to seize the opportunity emerging in the world of security to meet the challenge posed by quantum computing.
• The centre will focus on the three fundamental pillars of quantum technologies: communications and cybersecurity; computing and simulation; and sensors and metrology.

Telecoms Trailblazers: A Day in the Life of Simon Saunders

Hello – I’m Simon Saunders, an independent telecoms advisor. I am an honorary professor at the University of Bristol, a visiting professor at King's College London and Chair of the UKTIN Wireless Networking Technologies Expert Working Group. I co-founded Real Wireless, which helps businesses, organisations and policymakers make the most of wireless connectivity technologies in the 5G era. In the past, I’ve worked for traditional telecoms companies like Pye and Motorola, and cloud/AI specialists including Google.

Airspan Expands Open RAN Leadership with Acquisition of Jabil’s Radio Portfolio, IPR, and R&D Team

Strengthening U.S. Innovation and Advancing the Open RAN Ecosystem

Airspan Networks, a leading provider of wireless network solutions, today announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Jabil’s Open RAN radio portfolio and associated Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). This strategic acquisition expands Airspan’s capability in high power macro radio development.

Jio Platforms Limited Along with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia Unveil Plans for Open Telecom AI Platform at Mobile World Congress 2025

Summary

• Jio Platforms Limited (JPL), along with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia, plans to build an Open Telecom AI Platform to redefine telecom operations with cutting-edge AI integration

• The planned platform is a solutions-oriented, multi-domain intelligence frameworkaimed at enhancing network security and efficiency, reducing total cost of ownership (TCO)

Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile sign deal to create European direct-to-device satellite service provider

Newbury, UK and Midland, TX. US - Vodafone Group Plc (Vodafone) (LSE: VOD), a leading European and African telecommunications company, and AST SpaceMobile Inc. the company building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones, designed for both commercial and government application, have signed an agreement to create a jointly-owned European satellite service business (“SatCo”) to serve mobile network operators (MNOs) in all European markets.