Multi-billion dollar deals are reshaping networking

 The first half of 2024 witnessed a seismic shift in the networking industry landscape, marked by a series of major acquisitions that individually and collectively promise to redefine the sector. Several industry giants completed transformative deals, while others announced significant mergers, setting the stage for a dramatic reshaping of the competitive environment. These strategic moves, driven by the pursuit of technological synergies and market expansion, span various crucial areas including optical networking, cloud infrastructure, data analytics, and AI-driven solutions. The scale and scope of these acquisitions – from Broadcom's $69 billion VMware deal to Nokia's $2.3 billion Infinera purchase – underscore the industry's rapid evolution and the high stakes involved in staying competitive. As these business combinations unfold, they are poised to not only alter the trajectories of the companies involved but also to fundamentally transform the networking sector's dynamics, capabilities, and future direction.

The Nokia - Infinera deal

Nokia's agreement to acquire Infinera for $2.3 billion stands out as one of the most recent and notable acquisitions in the networking industry. This deal aims to bolster Nokia's optical networking business, improving its scale and profitability while accelerating product development. The acquisition will strengthen Nokia's technology leadership in optical networking and increase its exposure to the rapidly growing webscale customer segment.

Nokia, with a market capitalization of approximately $22 billion, reported net sales of €22.3 billion in 2023, a 1% year-on-year decrease. The company has been focusing on 5G technology and has recently announced advancements in 5G-Advanced and 6G research. Infinera, on the other hand, generated $1.61 billion in revenue in 2023, a 3% increase from 2022. The company specializes optical transport using its in-house developed coherent digital signal processing (DSP) and photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technologies and leveraging its vertically-integrated model.

Broadcom Acquires VMware

The Broadcom-VMware acquisition, valued at $69 billion, stands as one of the largest tech deals in history and marks a significant shift in the enterprise software and hardware landscape. VMware, founded in 1998, has been a dominant player in the virtualization market since its inception. The company's core technology allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical server, revolutionizing data center operations. Over the years, VMware expanded into adjacent markets such as cloud infrastructure, networking, and end-user computing. Prior to the acquisition, VMware reported annual revenue of $13.35 billion in fiscal year 2023, showcasing its strong market position.

VMware's journey to Broadcom included several corporate transitions. EMC acquired VMware in 2004, followed by Dell's acquisition of EMC (including VMware) in 2016. In November 2021, Dell completed the spin-off of its remaining stake in VMware to shareholders, setting the stage for Broadcom's acquisition. This deal aligns with Broadcom's history of major acquisitions, including LSI Corporation, Avago + Broadcom Corporation, CA Technologies, and Symantec's enterprise security business, reflecting the company's strategy of growth through strategic purchases in the tech sector.

The Broadcom-VMware deal faced significant regulatory scrutiny, particularly from the EU and UK, due to anticompetitive concerns. Regulators worried about potential limitations on VMware's interoperability with competing hardware, Broadcom leveraging VMware's position to favor its own products, and possible price increases for VMware products. To address these concerns and secure regulatory clearance, Broadcom made several commitments, including ensuring VMware's continued interoperability with competing hardware, maintaining open access to VMware's server virtualization software for Broadcom's competitors, and agreeing not to degrade VMware's support for competing products.

Since the acquisition's completion, Broadcom has implemented significant changes to VMware's business model. These include shifting from perpetual licenses to subscription-based models, restructuring partner programs, and focusing on the most profitable customers and products. As of June 2024, Broadcom has signed new agreements with major hardware vendors like Dell, HPE, and Lenovo to continue offering VMware products, indicating a strategy to maintain VMware's market presence while adapting its business model.

Cisco Acquires Splunk

Cisco Systems made a significant push into the data analytics and observability market with its $28 billion acquisition of Splunk. Cisco, with a market cap of about $200 billion, reported revenue of $57 billion in fiscal year 2023, an 11% increase year-over-year. Splunk's revenue for the same period was $3.7 billion. This deal enhances Cisco's software capabilities and expands its presence in the cybersecurity and IT operations management sectors. Cisco has been focusing on AI-driven networking solutions, and Splunk's data analytics capabilities complement this strategy.

The acquisition brings substantial value to Cisco, positioning it as one of the largest software companies globally, particularly in the security and observability sectors. Splunk's technology significantly enhances Cisco's cybersecurity capabilities, providing more comprehensive security analytics across devices, applications, and cloud environments. The merger also strengthens Cisco's position in the rapidly growing AI market, leveraging Splunk's data platform to harness AI more effectively for security and observability. Furthermore, the combined capabilities offer improved observability across hybrid and multi-cloud environments, enabling customers to deliver smoother application experiences.

Cisco expects the acquisition to be cash flow positive and gross margin accretive in the first fiscal year after closing, contributing to earnings per share growth in the second fiscal year. This strategic move aligns with Cisco's vision of securely connecting everything and accelerating innovation in AI-enabled security and observability, helping organizations become more secure and resilient in an AI-powered world.

HPE to Merge with Juniper Networks

The HPE-Juniper merger represents a strategic move that significantly bolsters HPE's position in the networking market, particularly in the realm of AI-driven solutions. This $14 billion acquisition is set to double HPE's networking business, creating a comprehensive portfolio that strengthens its competitive stance against industry leaders. Juniper, long regarded as the reliable "second source" to market-leading Cisco in both enterprise networking and service provider routing markets, brings to the table annual revenue of about $5.6 billion, a substantial addition to HPE's $29 billion in annual sales.

A key asset in this acquisition is Juniper's Mist AI platform, which aligns perfectly with HPE's focus on AI-driven networking solutions. Juniper CEO Rami Rahim has spent the last two years repositioning the company toward the enterprise market, with the Mist acquisition playing a central role in this strategy. The combination of HPE Aruba Networking and Juniper's Mist AI platform is expected to create a formidable offering in cloud-native and AI-native management and control for networking.

The merger is expected to be accretive to HPE's non-GAAP EPS and free cash flow in the first year post-close, with the networking segment set to contribute more significantly to HPE's total revenue and operating income. Beyond the financial benefits, the deal brings strong relationships with cloud providers and enterprise customers, expanding HPE's market reach. By leveraging industry-leading AI, including Mist, the combined company aims to create superior user and operator experiences, particularly beneficial for customers' high-performance networks and cloud data centers.

IBM Acquires HashiCorp

IBM acquired HashiCorp for $6.4 billion, enhancing its multi-cloud capabilities and strengthening its position in the infrastructure-as-code market. IBM, with a market cap of approximately $130 billion, reported revenue of $60.5 billion in 2023, a 2% increase year-over-year. HashiCorp's revenue for the same period was $568 million. This acquisition aligns with IBM's hybrid cloud strategy and its focus on AI-powered solutions for cloud management.

Founded in 2012, HashiCorp is renowned for its suite of open-source and commercial products that address infrastructure automation, security, and management in multi-cloud environments. Key products such as Terraform, Vault, Consul, and Nomad are essential for organizations adopting cloud computing. These tools are widely used by a diverse array of customers to streamline cloud operations and enhance security.

For IBM, HashiCorp brings significant value by enhancing its multi-cloud strategy. The integration of HashiCorp's innovative technologies will simplify the management of complex cloud infrastructures and improve security. This acquisition not only strengthens IBM's portfolio but also underscores its commitment to leading in the hybrid cloud and AI spaces.

The Sale of Spirent Communications

In March 2024, Viavi Solutions announced its intention to acquire Spirent Communications for £1.01 billion (approximately $1.277 billion). Both companies operate in the network testing and assurance market, offering solutions to ensure the performance, security, and reliability of networks. While there is significant product overlap, the two companies also have complementary strengths.

However, the deal faced an unexpected challenge when Keysight Technologies made a higher offer for Spirent. Consequently, Spirent withdrew its recommendation for the Viavi offer, and the Viavi bid officially lapsed on May 24, 2024. Keysight's acquisition of Spirent has since received backing from voters at court and general meetings, though it still awaits final regulatory approvals.

Keep Watching

The networking industry continues to evolve through strategic mergers and acquisitions, driven by the need for enhanced capabilities in areas such as AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. These deals are reshaping the competitive landscape, with major players like Nokia, Broadcom, Cisco, HPE, and IBM strengthening their positions through strategic acquisitions. As the industry moves forward, we can expect to see further consolidation and innovation, particularly in AI-driven networking solutions and multi-cloud management. These trends will likely continue to shape the future of the networking landscape, offering more comprehensive and advanced solutions to meet the evolving needs of businesses in an increasingly connected world.

See our full list of Mergers and Acquisitions in the networking sector dating back to 2003.

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Tech Update: Future Photonic Interconnects for AI Data Centers

 How is silicon photonics addressing the demands of generative AI?

Vikas Gupta, Senior Director of Product Management from GlobalFoundries explains:

- GlobalFoundries' GF Fotonix integrates electronics and photonics on the same silicon, enabling high-speed networks with low latency

- The technology is designed to be flexible, suitable for pluggable modules, co-packaged optics, and optical interposers

- GlobalFoundries is expanding its ecosystem through partnerships with OSATs and customers to reach an inflection point for co-packaged optics

https://youtu.be/YOpayCK-tpg

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Approved Networks adds OSFP 800G DR8 transceiver

 Approved Networks, a Legrand brand, introduced its latest innovation—the OSFP 800G DR8 transceiver.

The OSFP 800G DR8 transceiver provides compatibility for both InfiniBand and Ethernet networks. It delivers ultra-fast data transmission capabilities up to 500 meters. 

Specifications

Form Factor: OSFP DR8	Data Rate: 800 Gb/s (2x 400 Gb/s)
Wavelength: 1310 nm	Protocols: InfiniBand NDR and Ethernet
Connector: Dual MPO-12 APC	Transmitter Type: EML
Cable Type: Parallel SMF	Max Distance: 500 m (1640 ft)
Temperature Range: Commercial Temp: 0ºC to 70ºC	Digital Diagnostics (DDM/DOM): Supported
Power Consumption: Max. 16.5 W

"With the introduction of the OSFP 800G DR8 transceiver, Approved Networks is once again at the forefront of innovation in the field of fiber optics," says Brian Patton, VP of Engineering at Approved Networks. "As technology rapidly advances and reliance on data-intensive operations increases, the need for faster connectivity has become even more critical. This transceiver sets a new benchmark by surpassing all expectations and delivering unprecedented speeds of up to 800 Gbps, guaranteeing exceptional performance."

Approved Networks' website cites a list price of US$2,275.

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Ericsson records US$1.1 billion impairment related to Vonage

 Ericsson will record a non-cash impairment charge of SEK 11.4 billion (approximately USD 1.1 billion) in the second quarter of 2024, due to lower anticipated market growth rates in Vonage’s current portfolio. This charge will impact the net income after tax by SEK 11.4 billion (USD 1.1 billion) and will be reported in the Enterprise segment.

Niklas Heuveldop, Head of Business Area Global Communications Platform and CEO of Vonage says: “Given deterioration in the market environment and elective decisions we have made to refocus our investments in strategically prioritized areas, we have reassessed certain growth assumptions, resulting in a non-cash impairment of SEK 11.4 billion.”

Niklas Heuveldop adds: “We continue to advance our strategy to build a Global Network Platform for network APIs, which was the strategic impetus for the Vonage acquisition. We recently announced additional partnerships with leading mobile network operators and we see continued positive momentum across the industry. Through this strategy, we are making advanced 5G network capabilities available to the world’s developer community to accelerate the innovation of value-added applications for industry and society. This will open up new revenue streams for our operator customers and spur growth in the telecom industry.”

https://www.ericsson.com/en/press-releases/2024/7/ericsson-announces-non-cash-impairment-charge-mainly-relating-to-vonage

• In October 2023, Ericsson announced a non-cash impairment charge of SEK 32 billion for Q3 2023 representing 50% of the total amount of goodwill and other intangible assets from its acquisition of Vonage. The company cited a significant drop in the market capitalization of Vonage’s publicly traded peers, increased interest rates and overall slowdown in Vonage’s core markets as reasons for the charge. Ericsson continues to advance its enterprise strategy, with Vonage’s network API capabilities being central to this strategy and the development of a Global Network Platform (GNP). 
• In July 2022, Ericsson completed its $6 billion acquisition of Vonage Holdings Corp.  The deal provided Ericsson with a platform for offering a full suite of communications solutions including, Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS), UCaaS and CCaaS. Ath the time, Ericsson said it aims to transform the way advanced 5G network capabilities are exposed, consumed and paid for. This will provide the global developer community, including Vonage’s more than one million registered developers, with easy access to 4G and 5G network capabilities via open Application Program Interfaces (APIs).

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BT implements energy-saving 'Cell Sleep' at EE basestations

 BT Group has successfully implemented energy-saving 'cell sleep' technology across its EE mobile sites nationwide. This move follows successful trials conducted across the UK's home nations. The 'cell sleep' software reduces energy consumption by putting certain 4G LTE capacity carriers to sleep during predicted periods of low traffic, a prediction made possible through machine learning analysis of each site.

The system is designed to automatically wake up during busy periods and can respond swiftly to unexpected surges in demand, ensuring continuous service without interruptions. An even more efficient state, called 'deep sleep,' can be activated during extremely low demand periods, such as overnight. This dual functionality is provided by the RAN equipment suppliers at each EE site, utilizing BT Group's site data to inform the statistical algorithms that manage these energy-saving measures.

BT Group's Chief Networks Officer, Greg McCall, highlighted the significant energy savings potential across their networks, expecting the 'cell sleep' technology to save up to 2 KWh per site per day, amounting to 4.5 million KWh annually across EE’s network. This initiative aligns with BT Group's broader efforts to increase network energy efficiency, which is crucial as the company's networks account for 89% of its total energy consumption. These efforts are part of BT Group’s commitment to becoming a net-zero carbon emissions business by March 2031, complemented by the recent switch-off of its legacy 3G network and upgrades to more energy-efficient RAN equipment.

Key Points:

• Nationwide Rollout: 'Cell sleep' technology implemented across all EE mobile sites.
• Energy Efficiency: Expected savings of up to 2 KWh per site per day, totaling 4.5 million KWh annually.
• Smart Activation: Technology wakes up automatically during busy periods and can handle unexpected demand surges.
• Deep Sleep Mode: Further reduces power consumption during extremely low demand periods.
• Net Zero Goal: Part of BT Group's strategy to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by March 2031.

https://newsroom.bt.com/bt-group-rolls-out-energy-saving-cell-sleep-technology-to-ee-mobile-sites-nationwide/

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Orange Business launches SD-WAN Essentials

 Orange Business enriches its SD-WAN portfolio by launching SD-WAN Essentials solution designed to leverage connectivity as a springboard to the cloud.

With SD-WAN Essentials, Orange Business supports businesses in gradually migrating their services to the Internet. This modernization is achievable through the simple addition of the SD-WAN Essentials option, natively compatible with their Flexible Internet access. The One Box approach provides the core benefits of SD-WAN services on a single router, ensuring security. The solution offers businesses unified, real-time visibility of their Internet access through a single portal, increased control with application performance indicators, and the ability to allocate bandwidth based on usage and prioritize critical application flows.

SD-WAN Essentials is designed to simplify deployment, reduce the number of necessary devices, and lower energy consumption, providing a significant advantage to companies aligning their digital infrastructure modernization with their CSR approach.

Key Points:

• Enhanced Offerings: Orange Business launches SD-WAN Essentials to improve cloud connectivity.

• Modernization Support: Helps companies migrate services to the Internet with ease and security.

• Simplified Deployment: Reduces equipment needs and energy consumption, aiding CSR goals.

• Customer Success: Frans Bonhomme leverages SD-WAN Essentials for seamless connectivity across 370 locations.

Ekinops is supporting the launch.

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NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL gets underway

NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL official launched as a new company to oversee the DOCOMO group's global operations, implementing integrated and agile strategies across various domains. Collaborating with local partners, NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL aims to enhance global quality of life by fostering new lifestyles and contributing to societal and industrial transformations.

The company plans to offer both application and operator-enabling services worldwide, including Web3-based payment solutions and an AI-supported Data Marketing Platform (DMP). Operator-enabling services will feature Open RAN and a global space-based non-terrestrial network (NTN), facilitating telecom operators to revolutionize their businesses. NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL will consolidate existing global investments and seek new investments in companies with strong local market presence. Initially focusing on Southeast Asia and North America, the company plans to expand to Europe and the Middle East in the future. A preparatory company established on May 10 is ensuring operational readiness, with NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL set to commence operations this July.

Key Points:

• Global Expansion: NTT DOCOMO GLOBAL to drive DOCOMO's global presence and growth.
• Services: Application services include Web3-based payment solutions and AI-supported DMP; operator-enabling services include Open RAN and NTN.
• Investments: Consolidation of existing investments and new investments in companies with strong local presence.
• Market Focus: Initial focus on Southeast Asia and North America, followed by Europe and the Middle East.
• Operational Readiness: Preparatory company established; operations begin in July.

https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2024/0510_01.html

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Milestone: Two billion 5G connections now in service

 In the first quarter of 2024, the global adoption of 5G connections continued its steady climb, reaching nearly two billion with an addition of 185 million new connections, according to data from 5G Americas and Omdia. The study predicts that global 5G connections will reach 7.7 billion by 2028, with North America forecast to boast an impressive 700 million 5G connections by the same year.

Chris Pearson, President of 5G Americas, stated, “The wireless technology sector continues to demonstrate its strength and significance through rapid adoption and sustained robust growth globally. North America remains at the forefront of 5G implementation.”

• North America leads in 5G adoption, with 32% of all wireless cellular connections.
• In Q1 2024, North America added 22 million new 5G connections, totaling 220 million.
• Latin America saw strong growth in 4G LTE and 5G connections last quarter.
• Latin America added eight million new LTE connections, reaching 591 million total.
• Nine million new 5G connections were added in Latin America, totaling 48 million.
• 4G LTE subscriptions remain strong in Latin America as 5G availability increases.

5G Networks

• Global: 316
• North America: 17
• Latin America and Caribbean: 40

4G LTE Networks

• Global: 712
• North America: 18
• Latin America and Caribbean: 134

https://www.5gamericas.org/

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U.S. funds 12 Tech Hubs, including quantum and photonics research

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has announced a new round of funding, totaling approximately $504 million, in implementation grants to 12 Tech Hubs. This funding aims to scale up the production of critical technologies, create jobs in innovative industries, enhance U.S. economic competitiveness and national security, and accelerate the growth of future-focused industries across various regions in the United States.

Tech Hubs implementation awardees are:

Elevate Quantum Tech Hub (Colorado, New Mexico)
Lead Agency: Elevate Quantum
Technology Focus: quantum information technology
Estimated Award Amount: $41 million  

Headwaters Hub (Montana)
Lead Agency: Accelerate Montana
Technology Focus: smart photonic sensor systems  
Estimated Award Amount: $41 million

Heartland BioWorks (Indiana)
Lead Agency: Applied Research Institute
Technology Focus: biomanufacturing 
Estimated Award Amount: $51 million

iFAB Tech Hub (Illinois)
Lead Agency: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 
Technology Focus: precision fermentation and biomanufacturing 
Estimated Award Amount: $51 million 

Nevada Tech Hub (Nevada)
Lead Agency: University of Nevada, Reno   
Technology Focus: lithium batteries and electric vehicle materials 
Estimated Award Amount: $21 million 

NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub (New York)
Lead Agency: CenterState Corporation for Economic Opportunity   
Technology Focus: semiconductor manufacturing
Estimated Award Amount: $40 million

ReGen Valley Tech Hub (New Hampshire)
Lead Agency: Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute   
Technology Area: biofabrication 
Estimated Award Amount: $44 million 

SC Nexus for Advanced Resilient Energy (South Carolina, Georgia)
Lead Agency: South Carolina Department of Commerce   
Technology Focus: clean energy supply chain
Estimated Award Amount: $45 million

South Florida ClimateReady Tech Hub (Florida)
Lead Agency: Miami Dade County Innovation and Economic Development Office   
Technology Focus: sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure 
Estimated Award Amount: $19 million 

Sustainable Polymers Tech Hub (Ohio)
Lead Agency: Greater Akron Chamber   
Technology Focus: sustainable polymers
Estimated Award Amount: $51 million

Tulsa Hub for Equitable & Trustworthy Autonomy (Oklahoma)
Lead Agency: Tulsa Innovation Labs    
Technology Focus: secure autonomous systems  
Estimated Award Amount: $51 million

Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub (Wisconsin)
Lead Agency: BioForward Wisconsin   
Technology Focus: personalized medicine
Estimated Award Amount: $49 million

“The Department of Commerce is laser focused on expanding economic opportunity to every corner of this country,” said Deputy Commerce Secretary Don Graves. “The Tech Hubs program is a commitment to American economic prosperity and success. These 12 awardees embody the innovation and creativity that can be found nationwide, boosting U.S. manufacturing and bolstering U.S. global competitiveness, bringing President Biden’s Investing In America agenda to the forefront.” 

https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2024/07/biden-harris-administration-announces-next-funding-round-504-million-12

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RVM lands CHIPs Act funding for MEMS foundry

The U.S. Department of Commerce has signed a preliminary memorandum of terms (PMT) with Rogue Valley Microdevices (RVM) to provide up to $6.7 million in proposed funding under the CHIPS and Science Act. This investment will support the construction of RVM’s microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and sensor foundry facility in Palm Bay, Florida. This facility is expected to nearly triple RVM’s manufacturing capacity, enhancing the U.S. supply chain resilience.

RVM is a notable U.S.-based pure play MEMS foundry specializing in high-mix, low-volume wafer and MEMS foundry services used in the defense and biomedical industries. The proposed investment will facilitate the construction of the facility, including the renovation of the clean room and installation of equipment. RVM plans to ship its first wafers from the new facility by early 2025, with the facility’s full completion anticipated by mid-2025. Additionally, RVM intends to establish on-site childcare and partner with a local provider to offer STEM-based early education and after-school support.

This proposed CHIPS investment marks the first in a women- and minority-owned business, highlighting the essential role of smaller businesses in the semiconductor ecosystem. RVM plans to leverage the Department of the Treasury’s Investment Tax Credit, which could be up to 25% of qualified capital expenditures, alongside state and federal support totaling over $8 million.

Key Points:

• Funding Amount: Up to $6.7 million under the CHIPS and Science Act.

• Location: Palm Bay, Florida.

• Capacity Increase: Nearly triple RVM’s manufacturing capacity.

• Job Creation: Over 75 new jobs in Florida.

• Facility Completion: First wafers by early 2025, full completion by mid-2025.

• Additional Support: $5 million Florida Department of Commerce loan, $3.2 million in other state incentives and grants.

• Tax Credit: Plans to claim up to 25% of qualified capital expenditures.

• Notable Milestone: First CHIPS investment in a women- and minority-owned business.

https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2024/07/us-department-commerce-announces-preliminary-terms-rogue-valley

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Augtera powers AI operations for MX Technologies' SONiC data center

MX Technologies has selected Augtera Networks to power AI operations for its next-generation data center networks by leveraging Dell Enterprise SONiC switches.

MX Technologies is a financial technology company specializing in providing data-driven financial management solutions. In 2023, the company augmented its legacy network monitoring tools with the Augtera Network AI platform in its data center networks. This new solution enabled MX to enhance network monitoring with network AIOps, providing preventive and automated operations to optimize application performance while also maintaining traditional network monitoring capabilities for easier operational adoption.

Augtera’s real-time ML-based anomaly detection offers early detection and automated alerts for application TCP retransmits, data center fabric grey failures, data plane, environmental and control plane errors, and congestion. This equips MX to identify the top application flows impacted by TCP retransmits caused by data center fabric issues and remediate them accordingly.

“MX continues to innovate by adopting Augtera Network AI, and now SONiC, to provide best-in-class experiences. Augtera integrated with SONiC will further optimize application experiences by increasing operational agility and efficiency,” explained Brandon Murdoch, Director of Infrastructure at MX.

“MX has been at the forefront of adopting Augtera’s industry-leading multi-vendor real-time ML anomaly detection capabilities across network logs and metrics to optimize platform performance. In addition to these capabilities, Augtera’s integration with SONiC will provide MX with real-time latency and loss observability to take these benefits one step further,” said Rahul Aggarwal, Founder & CEO at Augtera.

https://augtera.com/

• Founded by Rahul Aggarwal and Bhupesh Kothari, Augtera Networks is based in Palo Alto, California. The company specializes in AI-driven network solutions that enhance visibility, prevent network incidents, and significantly reduce resolution times. Augtera’s platform is designed to address the complexities of modern networks, providing proactive insights and automation to improve network performance and reliability

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Frontier offers $750M notes secured by fiber assets

Frontier Communications announced the closing of its previously announced fiber securitization notes offering. 

The offering consists of $750 million aggregate principal amount of secured fiber network revenue term notes, consisting of $530 million 6.2% Series 2024-1, Class A-2 term notes, $73 million 7.0% Series 2024-1, Class B term notes and $147 million 11.2% Series 2024-1, Class C term notes, each with an anticipated repayment date in May 2031. Collectively, the notes have a weighted average yield of approximately 7.4%.

The notes are secured by certain of Frontier’s fiber assets and associated customer contracts in North Texas and qualify as green bonds.

This transaction is the company’s second fiber securitization offering/

“The completion of our second securitization offering in less than a year highlights the value of Frontier’s fiber network and the attractiveness of fiber as critical digital infrastructure,” said Scott Beasley, Chief Financial Officer of Frontier. “These transactions are a cost-efficient way to fund our fiber strategy and Build Gigabit America, while also providing flexibility to refinance higher-cost debt, extend our term loan and lower our overall cost of capital.”

https://investor.frontier.com/news/news-details/2024/Frontier-Completes-750-Million-Fiber-Securitization-Offering-and-Term-Loan-Refinancing/default.aspx

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Alabama Fiber Network selects Ciena

Alabama is investing over $300 million, funded largely by the American Rescue Plan Act, to expand an open access middle-mile network throughout the state. This initiative aims to improve broadband infrastructure by working with several last- and middle-mile providers. One significant beneficiary of this investment is the Alabama Fiber Network (AFN), a coalition of eight rural electric cooperatives. AFN is leasing dark fiber and constructing new infrastructure to create a network spanning over 5,000 linear miles with interconnect points in all 67 counties, enhancing connectivity in unserved and underserved rural areas.

AFN has selected Ciena as its optical networking vendor for the converged IP/optical middle-mile network. Ciena’s WaveLogic 5 Nano (WL5n) 400G Coherent Pluggable Transceivers and 6500 Reconfigurable Line System (RLS) will be utilized in this deployment. This technology will allow AFN to offer scalable bandwidth to last-mile providers, minimizing costs and enhancing efficiency across the state. Additionally, AFN is using Ciena’s Navigator Network Control Suite for simplified network management and Ciena Services for turnkey implementation and solution validation, ensuring a robust and future-proof broadband infrastructure for Alabama.

https://www.alabamafibernetwork.com/network/

https://www.ciena.com

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Rogers runs Ericsson's Cloud RAN at live event

Rogers Communications, in partnership with Ericsson, successfully trialed 5G Cloud-Radio Access Network (Cloud RAN) technology at a nearly sold-out Toronto Blue Jays game on Canada Day. The test marked the first time Cloud RAN has been deployed over a commercial network at a live event in Canada.

Cloud RAN builds on the company’s national standalone 5G core network, which Rogers was first to launch in 2021. 

Earlier this year, Rogers successfully tested 5G network slicing technology also with Ericsson.

“Cloud-native technology is a critical component in the next generation of wireless networks and we are proud to have completed Canada’s first deployment of 5G Cloud RAN technology at a major live event,” said Ron McKenzie, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Rogers. “We continue to invest in our coast-to-coast radio access network, including innovative Cloud-native technologies, to deliver the most reliable, consistent network services across the country for both consumers and enterprise customers.”

https://about.rogers.com/news-ideas/rogers-completes-first-commercial-live-event-trial-of-ericsson-5g-cloud-ran-network-technology-in-canada/

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Airspan advances its Chapter 11 reorganization plan

Airspan Networks announced that the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware has confirmed its Plan of Reorganization.

Under the reorganization plan, Airspan will receive up to $95 million in equity financing, as well as access to a $20 million undrawn line of credit. In addition, Airspan’s existing funded debt will be eliminated. Once the plan is implemented, Airspan will become a private company majority-owned by affiliates of Fortress Investment Group.

“We are pleased to have achieved this important milestone,” said Glenn Laxdal, President and Chief Executive Officer of Airspan. “During the restructuring process, our team was fully focused on serving our customers and partners worldwide, and we will emerge from the process as a stronger company positioned to execute our strategic plan. We thank our employees, customers and vendors for their continued support, and look forward to Airspan’s exciting future.”

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GlobalFoundries acquires Tagore Technology’s GaN IP

GlobalFoundries announced the acquisition of Tagore Technology’s proprietary and production-proven Power Gallium Nitride (GaN) IP portfolio. This high-power density solution is designed to enhance efficiency and performance in various power applications, including automotive, IoT, and AI datacenters. As the digital landscape evolves with technologies like Generative AI, GaN is emerging as a crucial solution for sustainable and efficient power management, especially in datacenters.

Tagore Technology, founded in January 2011, specializes in GaN-on-Silicon (GaN-on-Si) semiconductor technology for RF and power management applications. As a fabless semiconductor company, it operates design centers in Arlington Heights, Illinois, USA, and Kolkata, India. Tagore Technology’s R&D team focuses on developing innovative solutions leveraging wide bandgap technologies to address RF and power design challenges, accelerating time-to-market for a wide range of applications. This acquisition includes a team of experienced engineers from Tagore Technology, who will join GlobalFoundries, enhancing its technical expertise and manufacturing capabilities.

Key Points:

• GlobalFoundries acquires Tagore Technology’s Power GaN IP portfolio. Financial terms were not disclosed.
• GaN technology enhances efficiency and performance in automotive, IoT, and AI datacenter applications.
• The acquisition supports large-scale manufacturing, improving datacenter power efficiency, reducing costs, and managing heat.
• Tagore Technology engineers will join GlobalFoundries, bringing expertise in GaN technology.
• GlobalFoundries received $1.5 billion under the U.S. CHIPS and Science Act, with part of the investment aimed at high-volume GaN manufacturing.

https://gf.com/gf-press-release/globalfoundries-acquires-tagore-technologys-gan-technology-to-accelerate-disruptive-powermanagement-solutions/

• Gallium Nitride (GaN) is a wide bandgap semiconductor material known for its high efficiency and performance in power electronics. GaN technology is used in various semiconductor applications due to its ability to operate at higher voltages, temperatures, and frequencies compared to traditional silicon-based semiconductors. This makes GaN particularly advantageous in power conversion systems, RF amplifiers, and high-frequency communication devices. In power electronics, GaN transistors and diodes offer lower switching losses, faster switching speeds, and higher power density, leading to more efficient and compact power supplies and inverters. In RF applications, GaN’s high electron mobility and breakdown voltage enable the development of powerful and efficient RF amplifiers for wireless communication and radar systems. Furthermore, GaN is crucial in developing next-generation power devices for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and various industrial applications, where its superior performance characteristics contribute to overall system efficiency and reliability

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AST SpaceMobile touts its 850 MHz low-band spectrum

Following the recent signing of commercial agreements with Verizon and AT&T, Abel Avellan, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of AST SpaceMobile, published a letter to partners, shareholders, and future space-based cellular broadband network users highlighting recent milestones.

The integration of 850 MHz spectrum from both AT&T and Verizon will enable AST SpaceMobile to provide reliable cellular broadband across the United States. This dual partnership ensures that AT&T and Verizon subscribers can benefit from seamless nationwide satellite coverage without needing specialized equipment. The strategic use of low-band frequencies ensures exceptional propagation, superior coverage, and compatibility with existing smartphones, promising a more consistent and reliable cellular experience for users.

These developments are part of AST SpaceMobile’s broader mission to bridge the digital divide. With plans to deploy a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit, the company aims to provide global cellular broadband coverage. The collaboration with industry leaders like AT&T and Verizon, along with innovative technologies such as the AST5000 ASIC, positions AST SpaceMobile to transform connectivity, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The company’s partnerships with over 45 mobile network operators worldwide, including Vodafone, Rakuten, and Bell Canada, further solidify its path toward achieving this goal.

Key Points:

• Strategic Partnerships: Agreements with Verizon and AT&T to use 850 MHz low-band spectrum for nationwide satellite coverage.
• Technological Advancements: Deployment of the largest commercial communications satellite in low Earth orbit and innovative AST5000 ASIC architecture.
• Global Ambition: Aiming to bridge the digital divide with a constellation of satellites providing worldwide cellular broadband coverage.
• Seamless Integration: Ensuring compatibility with existing smartphones for a consistent user experience without the need for specialized equipment.
• Broad Collaboration: Partnerships with over 45 mobile network operators globally, targeting a market of more than 2.8 billion subscribers.

https://ast-science.com/

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Japan's APRESIA to integrate Infinera's ICE-X coherent pluggables

APRESIA Systems,a Japanese provider of network infrastructure solutions, will integrate Infinera’s software-programmable ICE-X coherent pluggables into its own portfolio of locally manufactured Layer 2/3 switching and optical transmission products. 

APRESIA, a resale partner of Infinera in Japan and a member of the Open XR Optics Forum, will utilize the XR optics-enabled capabilities of Infinera’s ICE-X pluggables to expand its access network applications. This integration will initially focus on high-speed point-to-point and 100G bidirectional transport applications. It will enable APRESIA’s telecommunications service providers and cable operator customers to extend the reach of high-speed optical services cost-effectively using Infinera ICE-X’s unique digital subcarrier technology. APRESIA also plans to support point-to-multipoint functionality with ICE-X, significantly improving network efficiency and potentially reducing CapEx and OpEx by up to 70 percent.

“The growing demand for capacity at the edge of the network is driving the need for innovative access solutions optimized for speed, flexibility, and efficiency,” said Kenta Watabiki, Director, Sales Div., APRESIA Systems Ltd. “With the integration of Infinera’s ICE-X pluggables into our portfolio of networking devices, we can offer our service provider, data center, cloud, and cable operator customers new approaches to access and edge connectivity as their networks scale.”

“APRESIA’s strong track record of providing high-performance access network solutions makes it an ideal partner as Japan’s service providers, data center operators, and cable operators face pressing new traffic demands at the edge of the network,” said Ryan Perera, Senior Vice President, Infinera APAC Sales. “The addition of our suite of ICE-X pluggables in APRESIA’s product portfolio will unlock new value for these customers.”

https://www.infinera.com/press-release/japans-apresia-systems-expands-network-with-infinera-ice-x/

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Telefónica teams with Nokia for Private 5G in Spain

 Nokia announced a strategic agreement with Telefónica, encompassing its divisions Telefónica Mobile Spain and Telefónica IoT & Big Data Tech Spain, to foster the growth of the 5G private network market in Spain. This three-year partnership will see the deployment of 100 Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), Modular Private Wireless (MPW), MX Industrial Edge (MXIE) solutions, and industrial devices. These deployments aim to address the needs of critical industries such as ports, manufacturing, and logistics, focusing on enhancing productivity, worker safety, and sustainability in the Spanish enterprise market.

Nokia’s platform for industrial digitalization, which includes DAC, MXIE, industrial devices, and digitalization applications, is designed to streamline digital transformation. By providing a secure, reliable wireless infrastructure and on-premises computing capabilities, Nokia’s solutions facilitate real-time operational technology (OT) data access, accelerating the digitalization process. This initiative not only enhances Telefonica’s network capabilities but also sets a clear trajectory for migrating various use cases to 5G technology.

Key Points:

• Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC): Provides a high-performance, reliable wireless infrastructure for industrial digitalization.
• Modular Private Wireless (MPW): Offers customizable private wireless network solutions tailored to specific industrial needs.
• MX Industrial Edge (MXIE): Delivers on-premises computing capabilities to enable real-time OT data access and processing.
• Deployment Scope: 100 DAC, MPW, and MXIE solutions, along with industrial devices, to be implemented over three years.
• Industry Impact: Aimed at key sectors such as ports, manufacturing, and logistics to improve productivity, safety, and sustainability.
• Private 5G momentum: Nokia has deployed mission-critical networks to over 2,600 enterprise customers and over 730 private wireless customers worldwide.

https://www.nokia.com/about-us/news/releases/2024/07/01/nokia-and-telefonica-collaborate-to-develop-the-private-network-market/

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ZTE launches Nebula Telecom Large Model for Autonomous Networks

ZTE launch its Nebula Telecom Large Model product series with the goal of empowering global operators to achieve highly autonomous networks.

The Nebula Telecom Large Model, leveraging the “ZTE Digital Nebula” assemblable architecture, is designed to address complex issues and accelerate the development of autonomous networks. It facilitates collaboration from cross-domain to single-domain operations and provides full-scenario empowerment centered around agents. This model aims to transform operational systems by shifting from “human+machine” to “machine+human” interactions, promoting a new era of network autonomy.

In addition to the core model, ZTE has introduced the agent factory, a development and maintenance platform that industrializes the creation and management of agents. This platform enables operators to refine their application development modes and product forms. In complex scenarios, agents can orchestrate human-machine interactions using LUI mode and integrate traditional AI and generative AI models for seamless operational evolution. Key applications such as Network Insight Expert, Monitoring Expert, and iAssurance Expert have been launched, demonstrating the practical benefits of the Nebula Telecom Large Model in enhancing network planning, fault diagnosis, and emergency response efficiency.

https://www.zte.com.cn/global/about/news/zte-launches-the-nebula-telecom-large-model-opening-a-new-paradigm-for-highly-autonomous-networks.html

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