AST SpaceMobile readies its first 5 commercial "Bluebird" satellites

 AST SpaceMobile has completed its first five commercial satellites, known as Bluebirds. Each satellite is equipped with communications arrays measuring 693 square feet (64.4 square meters) and is set for shipment to Cape Canaveral in early August, with a launch window scheduled for September. These satellites are designed to provide U.S. nationwide non-continuous service, leveraging over 5,600 cells in premium low-band spectrum and offering a 10-fold increase in processing bandwidth.

The Bluebird satellites have undergone extensive testing to ensure their readiness for space operations. Final preparations are underway for their shipment to Cape Canaveral, and continuous monitoring and testing will proceed until they are integrated with the launch vehicle. The launch is planned within a 7-day window in September, with the exact date to be confirmed closer to the launch. This deployment marks a significant milestone in AST SpaceMobile’s mission to enhance global connectivity and bridge the digital divide.

• Satellite Specifications: Bluebird satellites with 693 square feet (64.4 square meters) communications arrays.
• Launch Plans: Shipment to Cape Canaveral in early August; 7-day launch window in September.
• Service Capability: U.S. nationwide non-continuous service with over 5,600 cells in low-band spectrum.
• Testing and Preparations: Rigorous testing completed; final testing continues until launch integration.
• Strategic Investments: Additional investments from AT&T, Verizon, Google, and Vodafone in 2024.
• Government Contract: New contract awarded by the United States Government through a prime contractor.
• Global Partnerships: Agreements with over 45 mobile network operators, including Vodafone, AT&T, Verizon, and more, covering 2.8 billion subscribers.
• Current Investors: AT&T, Verizon, Vodafone, Google, Rakuten, American Tower, and Bell Canada.

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Juniper posts Q2 sales, merger with HPE expected to close end of year

Juniper Networks reported a decline in net revenues to $1,189.6 million, down 17% year-over-year, but up 4% sequentially. The GAAP operating margin fell to 3.8% from 9.9% in the same quarter last year, yet improved from (1.2)% in the previous quarter. Non-GAAP operating margin also decreased to 10.9% from 16.9% year-over-year but saw a slight increase from 10.6% sequentially. GAAP net income increased by 40% year-over-year to $34.1 million, translating to $0.10 per diluted share, while non-GAAP net income dropped 46% year-over-year to $101.6 million, or $0.31 per diluted share, though it rose 5% sequentially.

Juniper experienced stronger-than-expected demand, particularly from cloud customers investing in AI initiatives and robust enterprise demand, driven by its Mist-led Campus & Branch business and Enterprise data center offerings. This performance was in line with expectations and reflects the company’s optimistic outlook for long-term financial prospects.

• Net Revenues: $1,189.6 million, down 17% YoY, up 4% sequentially.

• GAAP Operating Margin: 3.8%, down from 9.9% YoY, up from (1.2)% sequentially.

• Non-GAAP Operating Margin: 10.9%, down from 16.9% YoY, up from 10.6% sequentially.

• GAAP Net Income: $34.1 million, up 40% YoY.

• Non-GAAP Net Income: $101.6 million, down 46% YoY, up 5% sequentially.

• Total Cash and Investments: $1,430.3 million as of June 30, 2024.

• Net Cash Flows Used by Operations: $8.9 million in Q2 2024.

• Days Sales Outstanding: 66 days in Q2 2024.

• Capital Expenditures: $23.4 million.

• Declared Dividend: $0.22 per share, payable on September 23, 2024.

“We experienced better than expected demand during the June quarter, with orders growing double-digits sequentially and year-over-year,” said Juniper’s CEO, Rami Rahim. “We saw particularly robust orders from our cloud customers, many of which have digested prior purchases and are investing to support AI initiatives. We also experienced better than expected enterprise demand due to continued momentum in our Mist-led Campus & Branch business and strong demand for our Enterprise data center offerings.”

“Our Q2 financial results were largely in-line with our expectations at the beginning of the quarter,” said Juniper’s CFO, Ken Miller. “Our teams continue to execute well and we remain optimistic regarding our long-term financial prospects.”

https://investor.juniper.net/investor-relations/press-releases/press-release-details/2024/Juniper-Networks-Reports-Preliminary-Second-Quarter-2024-Financial-Results/default.aspx

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Chandrasekaran to head Intel Foundry Manufacturing

Intel appointed Dr. Naga Chandrasekaran as chief global operations officer, executive vice president and general manager of Intel Foundry Manufacturing and Supply Chain organization, replacing Keyvan Esfarjani, who has decided to retire from Intel after nearly 30 years of dedicated service.

Chandrasekaran joins Intel from Micron, where he served as senior vice president for Technology Development. He will be a member of Intel’s executive leadership team and report to CEO Pat Gelsinger. Most recently, Naga led Micron’s global technology development and engineering efforts related to the scaling of current memory technologies, advanced packaging technology and emerging technology solutions. Previously, he served as Micron’s senior vice president of Process R&D and Operations.

Chandrasekaran earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Madras; both a master’s and a doctorate degree in mechanical engineering from Oklahoma State University; a master’s degree in information and data science from the University of California, Berkeley; and dual executive MBAs from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA-Anderson School of Management) and the National University of Singapore.

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NETSCOUT's Q2 sees sharp drop in sales, workforce reduction

NETSCOUT SYSTEMS reported a significant drop in sales for the second quarter of fiscal year 2025. The company recorded total revenue of $174.6 million, down from $211.1 million year-over-year. Product revenue fell to $61.2 million from $94.7 million, while service revenue slightly decreased to $113.4 million from $116.5 million. The company also recently initiated a major restructuring effort, including a voluntary separation program (VSP) expected to reduce its workforce by 6.5%, or approximately 150 employees.

NETSCOUT’s GAAP operating margin plummeted to negative 265.4%, primarily due to a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of $427 million and a restructuring charge of $16.6 million. This resulted in a GAAP net loss of $443.4 million, or $6.20 per share, compared to a net loss of $4.2 million, or $(0.06) per share, in the same period last year. The company remains focused on enhancing its cybersecurity offerings and managing costs prudently. Despite the challenges, NETSCOUT extended a multi-year enterprise license agreement with a leading North American Tier-1 service provider during the quarter.

Key Financial Highlights:

• Total Revenue: $174.6 million, down from $211.1 million YoY

• Product Revenue: $61.2 million, down from $94.7 million YoY

• Service Revenue: $113.4 million, down from $116.5 million YoY

• GAAP Operating Margin: Negative 265.4% due to goodwill impairment and restructuring charges

• GAAP Net Loss: $443.4 million, or $6.20 per share, compared to $4.2 million, or $(0.06) per share YoY

• Non-GAAP Net Income: $20.6 million, or $0.28 per share, compared to $22.7 million, or $0.31 per share YoY

• Cash and Investments: $407.2 million as of June 30, 2024

• Restructuring Charges: $16.6 million in Q2, with an additional $3 million to $5 million expected in Q3

• Layoffs: Approximately 150 employees, representing 6.5% of the workforce, expected to save $25 million to $27 million annually

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NTIA Advances $42.45 billion BEAD Program

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has approved the initial proposals from Utah, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program is a key component of the Biden-Harris Administration’s “Internet for All” initiative, aimed at closing the digital divide by providing affordable, reliable high-speed internet to all Americans.

With this approval, Utah, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands can now access significant funding to begin their BEAD program implementations. This funding will support the deployment or upgrade of high-speed internet networks to ensure universal access within these regions. Utah is set to receive over $317 million, the Northern Mariana Islands over $80 million, and the U.S. Virgin Islands over $27 million. This funding is part of the broader $42.45 billion BEAD program authorized by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Key Points

• BEAD Program: A $42.45 billion initiative under the Biden-Harris Administration’s “Internet for All” initiative.

• Funding Allocation in this round: Utah - over $317 million, Northern Mariana Islands - over $80 million, U.S. Virgin Islands - over $27 million.

• Approval Status: Enables regions to begin implementation of high-speed internet projects.

• Next Steps: States and territories to move from planning to action, with one year to submit Final Proposals.

• Eligible Uses: Deployment of high-speed networks, internet adoption, training, and workforce development.

• NTIA Leadership: Continued support and rolling approvals for all 56 states and territories.

• Administration Goals: Ensure universal high-speed internet access across the U.S.

The approval marks a significant milestone in the NTIA’s efforts to advance digital equity and expand internet access nationwide. As these regions begin to implement their plans, the NTIA will continue to oversee and support the progress, aiming for comprehensive connectivity across the country.

https://www.ntia.doc.gov/press-release/2024/biden-harris-administration-approves-utah-commonwealth-northern-mariana-islands-and-us-virgin

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NTIA launches $1.25 Billion Digital Equity Act Competitive Program

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) hasunveiled nearly $1 billion in funding aimed at ensuring communities have access to necessary devices and digital skills, regardless of background or circumstances. This funding marks the first opportunity under the Digital Equity Act’s $1.25 billion Competitive Grant Program and is a pivotal part of President Biden’s “Internet for All” initiative within his Investing in America agenda.

Various organizations, including city and county governments, Native entities, certain nonprofits, educational agencies, and workforce development organizations, can apply competitively for this funding. NTIA encourages proposals from partnerships capable of administering substantial resources and serving diverse populations. U.S. Territories have a separate set-aside and can apply until October 22, with general applications due by September 23. The NTIA expects to start making awards by Winter 2024 on a rolling basis.

Key Points:
• Funding Available: Nearly $1 billion.
• Program: Digital Equity Act’s $1.25 billion Competitive Grant Program.
• Initiative: Part of President Biden’s “Internet for All” initiative.
• Eligible Applicants: City and county governments, Native entities, nonprofits, educational agencies, workforce development organizations, and U.S. Territories.
• Application Deadlines: September 23 for general applications, October 22 for U.S. Territories.
• Award Timeline: Expected to begin by Winter 2024 on a rolling basis.
• Objective: Ensure digital access and skills for all communities.
• Encouraged Proposals: Broad partnerships addressing diverse populations.
• Impact: Enhance digital skills and access to connected devices for underserved communities.
• Administration Comments: Emphasis on digital equity for all, facilitated by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

FBA President & CEO Gary Bolton offered the following statement of support: “FBA applauds the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on another significant step forward in connecting all Americans to fiber broadband. This morning, NTIA announced the availability of nearly $1 billion in funding to be used for digital equity programs. Equity cannot be achieved by infrastructure deployments alone; it also requires the tools and skills to make full use of the benefits of fiber connectivity. We encourage our membership and beyond to participate in this opportunity that will help close the digital divide once and for all.”

https://www.internetforall.gov/program/digital-equity-competitive-grant-program

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T-Mobile and KKR’s JV extends fiber broadband reach across the U.S.

T-Mobile and KKR announced a joint venture partnership to acquire Metronet, enhancing T-Mobile’s digital transformation and expanding its network capacity. As part of the deal, the joint venture will also acquire Oak Hill Capital’s existing stake in Metronet, with Oak Hill and Metronet founder John Cinelli retaining minority positions. T-Mobile is expected to invest approximately $4.9 billion for a 50% equity stake in the JV and 100% of Metronet’s residential fiber operations, with the transaction slated to close in 2025.

Metronet, the fastest-growing pure-play fiber company in the U.S., currently reaches over 2 million homes and businesses across 17 states. Post-acquisition, Metronet will transition its residential fiber retail operations and customers to T-Mobile, becoming a wholesale services provider. T-Mobile will handle customer acquisition and support, leveraging its retail, marketing, and service expertise while expanding fiber broadband services. Metronet will focus on network engineering, deployment, and customer installation, aiming to pass 6.5 million homes by 2030. This deal will enhance T-Mobile’s fiber footprint without requiring additional capital contributions to the JV.

The partnership also benefits from KKR’s extensivefiber network investments. Since KKR’s initial investment in Metronet in 2021, the company has rapidly grown its infrastructure and subscriber base. This JV aligns with KKR’s global infrastructure strategy, which has managed over $61 billion in assets, investing in leading fiber-to-the-home providers worldwide. The new JV is complementary to T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet offering, which serves over 5 million households and businesses, addressing the increasing demand for high-speed and reliable broadband services.

• JV Partners: T-Mobile and KKR to acquire Metronet.
• Financial Investment: T-Mobile to invest $4.9 billion for a 50% equity stake.
• Metronet’s Reach: Over 2 million homes and businesses across 17 states.
• Network Expansion: Metronet aims to pass 6.5 million homes by 2030.
• Operational Focus: T-Mobile to manage customer operations; Metronet to handle network deployment.
• KKR’s Experience: Over $61 billion in managed infrastructure assets globally.
• Complementary Services: JV enhances T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet and fiber partnerships.
• Closing Timeline: Transaction expected to close in 2025.

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AT&T Q2 Results Highlight Fiber and 5G Growth

AT&T reported strong second-quarter results for 2024, showcasing progress in its 5G and fiber initiatives. The company highlighted durable and profitable customer growth in both sectors, with increasing revenues from Mobility services and broadband. Despite a slight decrease in overall revenues compared to the previous year, AT&T maintained its full-year financial guidance, demonstrating confidence in its ongoing strategies.

In Q2, AT&T achieved revenues of $29.8 billion, with diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $0.49 and adjusted EPS of $0.57. Operating income was reported at $5.8 billion, with adjusted operating income reaching $6.3 billion. Net income stood at $3.9 billion, while adjusted EBITDA was $11.3 billion. Capital expenditures were $4.4 billion, contributing to a free cash flow of $4.6 billion, which marked an increase from the previous year. These financial outcomes reflect AT&T’s solid performance and strategic investments in 5G and fiber infrastructure.

Key Points:

• Revenues: $29.8 billion for Q2 2024.

• EPS: $0.49 (diluted); $0.57 (adjusted).

• Operating Income: $5.8 billion; $6.3 billion (adjusted).

• Net Income: $3.9 billion.

• Adjusted EBITDA: $11.3 billion.

• Cash from Operating Activities: $9.1 billion.

• Capital Expenditures: $4.4 billion compared to $4.3 billion for Q2 last year

• Free Cash Flow: $4.6 billion.

• Fiber Growth: 239,000 net adds, continuing 18 consecutive quarters of over 200,000 net adds.

• Mobility Service Revenues: Increased by 3.4% year over year to $16.3 billion.

• Consumer Broadband Revenues: Grew by 7% year over year to $2.7 billion.

AT&T’s CEO, John Stankey, emphasized the company’s investment-led strategy, positioning AT&T as a leader in converged connectivity. With nearly four out of every ten AT&T Fiber households also subscribing to AT&T wireless services, the company aims to deepen customer relationships and expand its subscriber base. Looking forward, AT&T reaffirms its guidance for 2024, anticipating continued growth in wireless service revenue, broadband revenue, and adjusted EBITDA.

https://about.att.com/story/2024/q2-earnings.html

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Nokia Achieves World-First in Full Duplex Wireless Transmission

 Nokia announced a significant breakthrough in wireless communications, achieving the first-ever full duplex transmission for wireless backhaul and fronthaul. This advancement is expected to play a crucial role in the evolution towards 6G and the development of spectrum beyond 100GHz. Operators worldwide have expressed the need for greater spectral efficiency, and Nokia’s innovative approach addresses this demand by enabling simultaneous transmission and reception of signals over a single channel, doubling the capacity of traditional frequency division duplexing (FDD) systems.

Using the D-Band spectrum (130 to 175 GHz) and Nokia’s Wavence Ultra-Broadband Transceiver (UBT) radio, this pioneering technology has demonstrated an impressive 10+10 Gbps capacity—10 Gbps for both uplink and downlink—over a single 2GHz channel. Full duplex technology not only enhances spectral efficiency by 100% but also offers several benefits over traditional line of sight (LoS) MIMO systems, including increased energy efficiency, significant cost savings, and simplified deployment.

Key Points

• Milestone: First-ever full duplex wireless transmission for fixed point-to-point links.
• Spectrum Used: D-Band (130 to 175 GHz).
• Technology: Nokia’s Wavence Ultra-Broadband Transceiver (UBT) radio.
• Capacity: 10+10 Gbps over a single 2GHz channel.
• Spectral Efficiency: Enhanced by 100% compared to current systems.
• Energy Efficiency: 100% increase.
• Cost Savings: Up to 50% reduction in hardware requirements.
• Deployment: Simplified, requiring only a single part number for all use cases.
• Impact on Operators: More efficient spectrum use, reduced energy and capital expenditures, and simplified operations.
• Impact on Subscribers: More reliable and faster services supporting next-gen wireless applications towards 6G.

The announcement is discussed in a blog posting by Giuseppe Targia, who heads Nokia Microwave & Space and Defense. Please see:

https://www.nokia.com/blog/worlds-first-full-duplex-wireless-transport-unveiled/?did=D00000007649&utm_campaign=MN_blogs&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=organic&utm_term=f94ee205-caa0-4f54-8f74-f64f2240a726

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Microsoft expands capacity with Lumen's Private Connectivity Fabric

Lumen Technologies and Microsoft announced a new strategic partnership leveraging the Microsoft Cloud to enhance Lumen’s digital transformation and significantly expand Microsoft’s network capacity. 

Specifically, Microsoft has chosen Lumen as a strategic supplier to bolster its network infrastructure. Lumen’s Private Connectivity Fabric will provide dedicated access to Lumen’s extensive fiber network, installation of new fiber routes, and integration of Lumen’s digital services. This AI-ready infrastructure aims to enhance connectivity, performance, and speed between Microsoft’s datacenters, supporting the next generation of Microsoft platform applications globally.

Microsoft said Lumen’s network expansion will deliver the necessary capacity and stability to support the growing data demands of AI applications. Erin Chapple, Corporate Vice President of Azure Core Product and Design at Microsoft, emphasized the transformative impact of AI on businesses and the essential role of a robust network infrastructure. She highlighted Lumen’s capabilities in supporting Azure’s mission to provide a reliable, scalable platform for diverse customer workloads, including general purpose, mission-critical, cloud-native, high-performance computing, and AI applications.

Lumen’s President and CEO, Kate Johnson, echoed this sentiment, stating that a powerful network infrastructure is crucial for the future of AI-driven innovation and growth. 

Key Points

• Strategic Partnership: Lumen and Microsoft collaborate to enhance network capacity for AI.
• Lumen’s Infrastructure: Private Connectivity Fabric to provide dedicated access to Lumen’s fiber network and new digital services.
• Datacenter Support: Improved connectivity, performance, and speed for Microsoft’s datacenters.
• AI and Network Infrastructure: Essential for supporting AI applications and future innovations.

https://news.lumen.com/2024-07-24-Microsoft-and-Lumen-Technologies-partner-to-power-the-future-of-AI-and-enable-digital-transformation-to-benefit-hundreds-of-millions-of-customers

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CrowdStrike cites errors with its QA process

CrowdStrike published a preliminary Post Incident Review (PIR) regarding the incident that occurred on July 19, 2024, where a content configuration update for the Falcon sensor caused a Windows system crash (BSOD). The issue arose from a Rapid Response Content update intended to enhance telemetry on novel threat techniques. This update, however, led to unexpected system failures on Windows hosts running sensor version 7.11 and above during a brief period.

The problematic update was released at 04:09 UTC and impacted systems until 05:27 UTC when it was reverted. Only Windows hosts were affected; Mac and Linux systems remained unaffected. The issue stemmed from an undetected error in the Rapid Response Content update. The error caused an out-of-bounds memory read, leading to the crash. CrowdStrike’s extensive QA processes and staged sensor rollout procedures were unable to prevent this issue. Enhancements in testing and deployment strategies are being implemented to prevent future occurrences.

Key Points:

• Incident Date and Time: July 19, 2024, from 04:09 to 05:27 UTC.

• Affected Systems: Windows hosts running Falcon sensor version 7.11 and above.

• Cause: Error in Rapid Response Content update.

• Impact: Windows system crashes (BSOD).

• Reversion: Update reverted at 05:27 UTC.

• QA and Rollout: Extensive testing failed to catch the issue.

• Prevention: Enhanced testing and deployment strategies.

• Platform Stability: Improvements in error handling and validation.

• Customer Control: Greater control over content update deployments.

• Transparency: Detailed release notes for content updates.

https://www.crowdstrike.com/falcon-content-update-remediation-and-guidance-hub/

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Dell'Oro: RAN Forecast Revised Downward

 Radio Access Network (RAN) market conditions remain challenging for the broader mobile infrastructure and RAN markets, according to a new report from Dell'Oro Group. Following the 40 to 50 percent increase between 2017 and 2021, the RAN market is now declining, and these trends are expected to prevail throughout the forecast period (2024-2028). However, the pace of the decline should moderate somewhat after 2024.

"It is not a surprise that there is rain after sunshine," said Stefan Pongratz, Vice President for RAN market research at Dell'Oro Group. "In addition to MBB-based coverage-related challenges, this disconnect between mobile data traffic growth and the capacity boost provided by the mid-band, taken together with continued monetization uncertainty, is clearly weighing on the market," continued Pongratz.

Additional highlights from the Mobile RAN 5-Year July 2024 Forecast Report:

• Worldwide RAN revenues are projected to decline at a 2 percent CAGR over the next five years, as continued 5G investments will be offset by rapidly declining LTE revenues.
• The Asia Pacific region is expected to lead the decline, while easier comparisons following steep contractions in 2023 will improve the growth prospects in the North American region. Even with some recovery, North American RAN revenues are expected to remain significantly lower relative to the peak in 2022.
• 5G-Advanced positions remain unchanged. The technology will play an essential role in the broader 5G journey. However, 5G-Advanced is not expected to fuel another major capex cycle. Instead, operators will gradually transition their spending from 5G towards 5G-Advanced within their confined capex budgets.
• RAN segments that are expected to grow over the next five years include 5G NR, FWA, mmWave, Open RAN, vRAN, private wireless, and small cells.

https://www.delloro.com/market-research/telecommunications-infrastructure/mobile-radio-access-network/

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Alphawave Semi Rides AI Wave with Record Q2 Bookings

 Alphawave Semi reported strong Q2 2024 results, with bookings reaching $107.4 million, up 27% year-over-year. The company attributed its success largely attributed to the growing demand for chiplet-based designs in AI and data center applications. Alphawave secured 14 new design wins in Q2, including a significant deal with a major hyperscaler for its 112G and UCIe-based solutions.

CEO Tony Pialis highlighted the company's leadership in advanced connectivity solutions, particularly in chiplets for AI and data infrastructure markets. Alphawave now boasts seven designs leveraging advanced packaging and chiplet-based designs on cutting-edge nodes, with most expected to enter production in 2025. The company is also on track to ship its first connectivity silicon products by the end of 2024, with potential sales exceeding $300 million over multiple years to a leading hyperscaler.

Key points:

• Q2 2024 bookings reached $107.4 million, up 27% year-over-year
• Secured 14 new design wins, including deals with hyperscalers and leading semiconductor companies
• Seven designs now leverage advanced packaging and chiplet-based designs
• First connectivity silicon products on schedule for shipment by end of 2024
• Potential $300 million in sales over multiple years for first silicon products
• Amended debt facility to provide more flexibility for future growth
• Company expects to have nearly half a billion dollars in backlog by year-end

https://awavesemi.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/AWE-Q2-2024-Trading-Update.pdf

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Ribbon posts Q2 revenue of $193 million

 Ribbon Communications reported Q2 2024 revenue of $193 million, compared to $211 for the second quarter of 2023 and $180 million for the first quarter of 2024. First half 2024 GAAP Loss from Operations improved $26 million year over year to ($15 million), and Non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDA improved $13 million, or 65%, to $33 million. GAAP and Non-GAAP Gross Margin for the second quarter improved 260 and 240 basis points year over year, respectively.

"Earnings increased significantly in the first half of 2024 with Adjusted EBITDA increasing 65% year over year despite lower sales. The improvement in profitability was driven by higher gross margins and lower operating expenses year over year. Revenue in the second quarter was impacted by a large U.S. Federal deal that was delayed to the third quarter. Sales were also lower as we suspended product shipments into Eastern Europe due to the extended war in Ukraine and increased complexities of operating in the region," stated Bruce McClelland, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ribbon Communications.

Mr. McClelland added, "We continue to project a strong second half of 2024 as we ramp the recently announced Verizon Voice Network modernization program and anticipate strong growth in several other areas such as Enterprise, U.S. Rural Broadband, Europe, and India. Recent changes in the competitive landscape also present an opportunity for further share expansion. However, we have adjusted our full year 2024 guidance slightly to reflect a more conservative outlook for the Eastern European region for the rest of the year."

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Telxius Expands to 400G with Juniper's Converged Optical Routing

Telxius, a leading global connectivity provider, is set to scale its core and edge network infrastructure to 400G using Juniper Networks’ Converged Optical Routing Architecture (CORA). This collaboration with Juniper Networks (NYSE:JNPR), known for its secure AI-native networks, aims to simplify network capacity expansion and efficiently deliver enhanced connectivity to metro networks and data center interconnects (DCI). The upgrade will enhance connectivity across distances of approximately 100 km to points of presence (PoPs) within Telxius’ expansive global footprint, including Spain, the Americas, and wider Europe.

Telxius is 100% owned by Telefónica and is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Telxius operates a robust subsea cable network, connecting Europe, Latin America, and Africa, with assets including the MAREA, BRUSA, and Atlantic Coast North (ACN) subsea cables. The company is also expanding its data center footprint in key markets, including Spain, USA, and Brazil. Additionally, Telxius has a large portfolio of over 23,000 towers in Europe, which it offers to tenants through its wireless infrastructure business. Looking ahead, Telxius is planning to expand its subsea cable network and data center capacity to meet growing demand for digital services.

By integrating Juniper’s CORA and PTX Series Packet Transport Routers, Telxius will create a more robust and efficient network. The project will migrate key architecture components to these advanced systems, freeing up substantial reserved bandwidth and enabling flexible expansion to 400G capacity. Leveraging IP over Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (IPoDWDM) technology, the solution maximizes routing platform capacity and scales link bandwidth, reaching more network locations and customers while reducing the need for external DWDM equipment. 

Key Points:

• Telxius is scaling its network infrastructure to 400G using Juniper Networks’ CORA.
• The upgrade enhances connectivity across approximately 100 km to PoPs in Spain, the Americas, and wider Europe.
• The integration involves Juniper’s CORA and PTX Series Packet Transport Routers.
• The project will free up bandwidth and enable flexible 400G expansion.
• The solution leverages IPoDWDM technology to maximize routing capacity and bandwidth.
• Telxius aims to simplify network operations, increase reliability, and reduce power consumption.

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Dell'Oro: Front End Networks and Data Center Switch Sales

Ethernet data center switches deployed in non-accelerated infrastructure, or “Front-End Networks” are forecast to generate more than $100B in sales over the next five years, according to a new report by Dell’Oro Group. By 2028, 51.2 and 102.4 Tbps network chips are expected to enable the deployment of nearly 100M shipments of 800 Gbps and 1.6 Tbps switch ports in front-end networks. AI infrastructure build-outs, also known as “Back-End Networks”, have the potential to double these deployments.

“While Cloud Service Providers’ focus in the near term is on building AI back-end networks to support their AI infrastructure, we anticipate an accelerated pace of investments in front-end networks in the second half of our forecast horizon,” said Sameh Boujelbene, Vice President at Dell’Oro Group. “Despite exponential growth opportunities in back-end networks, front-end networks are expected to continue driving the bulk of Ethernet data center switch sales over the next few years. Maintaining robust spending in front-end networks remains, therefore, essential to boosting the performance of major Ethernet switch suppliers.

“While back-end network will be the first to migrate to higher speed, we anticipate 51.2 Tbps-based switch deployment in front-end network to debut in 2024 and to enable a swift adoption of 800 Gbps. 102.4 Tbps-based switch deployments are expected to follow in 2025/2026 time frame and enable a second wave of 800 Gbps and the initial wave of 1.6 Tbps deployment,” added Boujelbene.

Additional highlights from the Ethernet Switch—Data Center 5-Year July 2024 Forecast Report:

• Linear Drive Pluggable Optics (LPOs), an alternative to Co-Packaged Optics (CPOs), are expected to gain material traction during our forecast horizon.
• SONiC (Software for Open Networking in the Cloud) adoption is expected to accelerate, achieving a 10-20 percent penetration rate in Tier 2/3 Cloud service providers and large enterprises by 2028.

https://www.delloro.com/news/front-end-networks-will-account-for-more-than-100b-in-data-center-switch-sales-over-the-next-five-years/

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Dell'Oro: Data Center Liquid Cooling Market Takes Off

The Data Center Liquid Cooling market has hit an inflection point, with mainstream adoption of liquid cooling starting in the second half of 2024, according to a new report from Dell'Oro Group that forecasts a market opportunity of more than $15 billion over the next five years (2024-2028).

“After tracking the Data Center Liquid Cooling market for five years, it’s finally transitioning from a niche technology deployed in specific segments of the market to mainstream applicability,” said Lucas Beran, Research Director at Dell’Oro Group. “Historically, liquid cooling vendors touted increased efficiency and sustainability as factors behind the technology’s adoption. While those benefits remain true, it’s proved to be the increased thermal management performance capabilities, meeting the particularly demanding thermal requirements of high-end processors and accelerated servers, that is the current driving force behind its adoption.

“As this adoption occurs, it’s single-phase direct-to-chip liquid cooling (DLC) deployments that are scaling first. This is the result of long-standing adoption in the high-performance computing (HPC) industry that has helped establish a more mature vendor ecosystem and end-user know-how to deploy and service the technology. Additionally, NVIDIA has specified single-phase DLC as the cooling technology to support its upcoming GB200 compute nodes. Yet, other forms of liquid cooling are emerging in the rapidly growing liquid cooling market. Both single-phase immersion and two-phase DLC are undergoing testing, validation, and proof of concept work, which is materializing in growing pipelines for those vendors. Two-phase immersion, on the other hand, is facing an uphill battle towards adoption, as it remains particularly challenged by the regulatory environment surrounding PFAS fluid use,” continued Beran.

Additional highlights from the Data Center Liquid Cooling Advanced Research Report:

• CoolIT Systems, Boyd, and Motivair were the top three vendors in Data Center Liquid Cooling revenues in 2023.
• Single-phase DLC is the leading data center liquid cooling technology. This is expected to continue throughout the forecast period, however, two-phase DLC and single-phase immersion revenues are also forecast to materially grow during the forecast period.
• The Enterprise customer segment, including HPC, was the leading customer segment of Data Center Liquid Cooling in 2023. However, the service provider customer segment, which includes the Top 10 Cloud, Rest-of-Cloud, Colocation, and Telco, is forecast to significantly outpace the growth of enterprises during the forecast period.
• Air-assisted liquid cooling and liquid-to-liquid heat exchange types are both forecast to grow at significant double-digit rates during the forecast period. By 2028, they are forecast to account for more than a third of the overall data center thermal management market.

https://www.delloro.com/news/ata-center-liquid-cooling-market-set-to-go-mainstream-and-top-15-b-over-the-next-five-years/

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Comcast Trims Connectivity Capex by 12.9% While Maintaining Growth

 Comcast reported its second-quarter 2024 results, showcasing mixed performance across its various business segments. In the Connectivity & Platforms division, which includes Residential and Business Connectivity units, revenue remained relatively stable with a slight decrease of 0.6% compared to the previous year. However, profitability in this segment improved, with Adjusted EBITDA increasing by 1.6% to $8.5 billion and Adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 90 basis points to a record-high 41.9%. Capital expenditures for Connectivity & Platforms decreased by 12.9% to $1.9 billion, reflecting lower spending on customer premise equipment and scalable infrastructure, partially offset by higher investment in line extensions and support capital.

The company's overall performance was characterized by steady growth in key areas such as broadband ARPU and wireless customer additions, despite facing challenges in other segments. Total consolidated revenue decreased by 2.7% year-over-year to $29.7 billion, while adjusted earnings per share increased by 7.0% to $1.21.

Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian L. Roberts commented on the results: "We grew Adjusted EPS high single digits and continued to invest aggressively in our businesses while returning $3.4 billion to shareholders. Broadband ARPU increased by 3.6% and we delivered 6% revenue growth in our connectivity businesses, while expanding our Adjusted EBITDA margin across Connectivity & Platforms to a record-high 41.9%. Media returned to Adjusted EBITDA growth, driven by Peacock, which delivered the best year-over-year improvement for any quarter since its launch in 2020."

Residential Connectivity & Platforms:

- Domestic broadband revenue increased by 3.0% to $6.6 billion

- Domestic wireless revenue grew by 17.3% to $1.0 billion

- Total domestic broadband customers decreased by 120,000

- Domestic wireless lines increased by 322,000 to 7.2 million

Business Services Connectivity:

- Revenue increased by 5.7% to $2.4 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA grew by 4.4% to $1.4 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA margin was 57.0%

Media:

- Revenue increased by 2.1% to $6.3 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA grew by 9.0% to $1.4 billion

- Peacock revenue increased by 28% to $1.0 billion, with paid subscribers growing by 38% to 33 million

Studios:

- Revenue decreased by 27.0% to $2.3 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA declined by 51.4% to $124 million

Theme Parks:

- Revenue decreased by 10.6% to $2.0 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA declined by 24.1% to $632 million

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Verizon Maintains Course in Q2, Cuts Capital Spending

Verizon Communications Inc. reported its second-quarter 2024 results, showcasing a mixed financial performance with some positive trends. The company's total consolidated operating revenue increased slightly by 0.6% year-over-year to $32.8 billion, driven by growth in service and other revenue. However, profitability saw a slight decline, with earnings per share dropping from $1.10 in Q2 2023 to $1.09 in Q2 2024. On an adjusted basis, EPS decreased from $1.21 to $1.15. Capital expenditures for the first half of 2024 decreased significantly to $8.1 billion, compared to $10.1 billion in the same period of 2023, as the company returned to historic levels of capital intensity.

The company reported strong performance in key areas such as wireless service revenue, broadband subscriber growth, and free cash flow. Total wireless service revenue grew by 3.5% year-over-year to $19.8 billion, while free cash flow for the first half of 2024 increased to $8.5 billion from $8.0 billion in the previous year.

Verizon Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg commented on the results: "The sequential and year over year improvements in the second quarter were a reflection of operational excellence and the moves we made to bring choice, value and control to our customers' lives. Our industry-leading network serves as a catalyst for how our millions of customers live their lives, and serves as the backbone for new and emerging technologies. We continue to build and expand on our strengths and successes with new products and services, and we are confident that this upward momentum will position us for future growth."

Consumer Group:

- Total revenue increased by 1.5% year-over-year to $24.9 billion

- Wireless service revenue grew by 3.7% to $16.3 billion

- Reported 8,000 wireless retail postpaid phone net losses, an improvement from 136,000 losses in Q2 2023

- Added 218,000 fixed wireless net additions and 24,000 Fios Internet net additions

Business Group:

- Total revenue decreased by 2.4% year-over-year to $7.3 billion

- Wireless service revenue increased by 2.4% to $3.4 billion

- Reported 268,000 wireless retail postpaid net additions, including 156,000 postpaid phone net additions

- Added 160,000 fixed wireless net additions, the highest quarterly result to date

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Ontario's telMAX deploys Adtran's Mosaic CP microservices platform

Canadian service provider telMAX is utilizing Adtran's scalable, programmable fiber access technology to extend high-speed broadband services to more communities. telMAX is leveraging Adtran’s Mosaic CP microservices platform, integrated with the GLDS BroadHub subscriber management platform, to enable rapid and cost-effective network expansion. The advanced automation features of this technology streamline network management and service activation, enhancing service delivery, troubleshooting, and customer care. The solution is built on Adtran’s compact SDX 6000 Series of Combo PON optical line terminals (OLTs) and multigigabit XGS-PON optical network terminals, designed for bandwidth-intensive subscribers.

This deployment empowers telMAX to create a more agile and customer-focused network, significantly increasing overall satisfaction as they bring ultra-fast full-fiber broadband to more households and businesses in Southern Ontario. With the new fiber access solution, telMAX can perform many operations remotely, ensuring swift, trouble-free installations for subscribers. This efficiency optimizes productivity and reduces operational costs, enabling telMAX to rapidly expand into new areas and offer exclusive, lightning-fast internet connectivity.

• telMAX is expanding its high-speed broadband services using Adtran’s technology.

• Integration includes Adtran’s Mosaic CP platform and SDX Series OLTs with GLDS BroadHub® subscriber management.

• Advanced automation streamlines network management, enhancing service delivery and customer care.

• The deployment aims to provide ultra-fast full-fiber broadband to more communities in Southern Ontario.

• Remote operations and efficient installations reduce costs and optimize productivity.

• telMAX’s network expansion covers Newmarket, Stouffville, Brooklin, and Aurora.

• The new solution supports real-time network adjustments and rapid response to customer demands, enhancing scalability and service quality.

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