Telecommunications infrastructure

Apple resolves App Store glitch affecting downloads

Apple has resolved an issue that temporarily prevented users from downloading apps on iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. The outage, which began at around 11AM ET on Wednesday, caused widespread problems for users attempting to install new apps.

Reports of the issue quickly surfaced on social media, with users in both the United States and Europe affected. When attempting to download apps, the ‘Get’ button would briefly indicate loading before resetting, leaving users unable to complete the installation.

By around 12:30PM ET, the App Store appeared to be functioning normally again, and users could download apps as usual. However, the problem did not affect updates to apps that had already been installed on devices.

Apple has not yet responded to requests for more information regarding the cause of the outage.

South Korea boosts protection of key industries

South Korea plans to strengthen measures to prevent the overseas leakage of business secrets as global competition for advanced technology intensifies, according to Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok. The government will implement a “big data” system at the patent agency to monitor potential leaks and introduce stricter regulations with tougher penalties for offenders, although details on the punishments were not provided.

The National Intelligence Service reported 97 attempts to leak business secrets to foreign countries over the past five years, 40 of which targeted the semiconductor sector. If successful, these breaches could have caused losses of approximately 23 trillion won ($16.85 billion). Recently, a South Korean executive accused of stealing Samsung Electronics’ chip technology was detained again over new allegations.

In response to global competition and supply chain challenges, South Korea has identified 12 sectors, including semiconductors, rechargeable batteries, aerospace, and AI, as ‘national strategic technologies.’ These industries receive targeted support and protection to boost the country’s technological leadership.

America Movil plans major 5G push in 2025

The Mexican telecom giant, America Movil, will focus on expanding its 5G wireless technology next year, prioritising Latin American markets. Controlled by billionaire Carlos Slim’s family, the company aims to advance its 5G network across key regions.

The company allocated $7 billion for capital expenditure this year, with 5G expansion at the core of its strategy. CEO Daniel Hajj confirmed the effort will continue in 2025, singling out Mexico and other Latin American countries as priorities.

Additional funding is being considered to support operations in markets like Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, according to CFO Daniel Garcia. Maintaining current debt levels remains a goal despite plans for refinancing in these regions.

America Movil is also in discussions with SpaceX for potential collaboration. A partnership with the space technology firm could link SpaceX services with the company’s main mobile network. Shares rose over 3% following a strong earnings report, highlighted by tripled quarterly profits.

US FCC investigates telecom firms over data cap policies

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a formal inquiry into the use of data caps by telecom companies. The investigation aims to assess how these caps impact consumers and market competition, particularly in an increasingly connected world.

FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel expressed concerns about the effects of limiting internet usage. She pointed out that data caps could harm small businesses by cutting off access to customers, penalise low-income families with additional fees, and limit essential communication tools for people with disabilities.

Rosenworcel noted that, for many Americans, rationing internet use would be unthinkable. However, millions of people across the country constantly face limitations on their data usage, which may hinder their ability to stay connected.

The inquiry is expected to explore whether these caps unfairly limit consumer choice and what impact they have on competition among telecom providers.

Kenya strengthens ICT sector through new regulatory framework and ICT Authority Bill 2024

The Kenya Communications Authority (CA) has mandated that all dealers of ICT equipment, including manufacturers, vendors, importers, and service providers, undergo a type approval process before connecting devices to the Public Switched Telecommunication Network (PSTN).

That requirement applies to a wide range of devices, such as smartphones, routers, modems, tablets, vehicle trackers, and other networking equipment, thus ensuring that these products meet national and internationally recognised standards. The directive aims to safeguard consumer health, uphold public interest, secure telecommunications networks within the country and enforce compliance through legal penalties.

Specifically, non-compliance can lead to fines reaching up to Ksh5 million ($38,759) and prison sentences of up to three years for serious infractions, while lesser offences carry penalties of up to Ksh250,000 ($1,937). Furthermore, the CA’s regulations address cybercrime by equipping authorities with the means to detect, prevent, investigate, and prosecute computer-related offences, thereby contributing to a safer digital environment in Kenya.

Additionally, to boost revenue, the Kenyan government plans to block devices imported without proper tax documentation from network activation, specifically targeting phones and other ICT equipment lacking tax records. That move strengthens regulatory control over ICT imports, promoting fair taxation and compliance with local laws.

Moreover, the proposed ICT Authority Bill 2024, introduced in May, will require ICT operators to secure operational licenses, further enhancing the quality, security, and efficiency of ICT services in Kenya. Ultimately, the bill aims to support Kenya’s digital economy and ensure that ICT infrastructure aligns with national development goals.

Cyprus and Khazna to forge strategic digital partnership

Cyprus and Khazna have entered into a significant partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy. That agreement aims to enhance Cyprus’s digital infrastructure by focusing on joint data centre projects, thereby positioning Cyprus as a key player in the global digital landscape.

Recognising Cyprus’s geographical advantage as a natural data gateway connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, the collaboration seeks to attract businesses that require reliable, scalable, and secure data platforms. Furthermore, with a robust network of submarine fibre-optic cables and satellite teleports already in place, additional investments are planned to strengthen this infrastructure and meet the growing demands for digital connectivity.

In addition, the partnership aims to integrate advanced technologies such as AI, smart mobility, and space solutions, driving the evolution of Cyprus into a regional tech and innovation hub while fostering a vibrant digital economy for both citizens and businesses. Moreover, the commitment to creating new business and economic opportunities is expected to benefit society and future generations.

By leveraging Khazna’s expertise in hyperscale digital infrastructure, this collaboration will further enhance Cyprus’s position as a growing technology hub in the region. Ultimately, this partnership signifies a strategic commitment to digital transformation and reflects a shared vision of a digitally advanced Cyprus poised for future innovation and growth.

Telecom leaders urge policy reforms for India’s digital future

Telecom leaders emphasised the urgent need for policy reforms to secure India’s digital future at the India Mobile Congress. They highlighted critical issues such as data localisation, AI adoption, and the expansion of satellite services, thereby calling for immediate action to address these challenges.

Specifically, the chairman of Reliance Jio urged the government to expedite updates to the data centre policy to ensure that essential data remains within India. Moreover, he advocated for incentives for local companies to establish AI and machine learning data centres.

In addition to these points, the transformative potential of AI across sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and education was recognised, with leaders stressing the importance of rapid adoption to drive productivity and innovation. Furthermore, the chairman of Bharti Airtel underscored the necessity of expanding satellite services to bridge the digital divide, particularly in remote areas. He called for funding through the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF) to support this expansion.

In light of these discussions, the leaders also addressed the need for direct spectrum allocation methods for satellite broadband services under the new Indian telecom law, enhancing connectivity for urban and rural consumers.

Additionally, they emphasised the importance of securing investments to strengthen the industry’s competitiveness. For instance, the chairman of Vodafone Idea noted the company’s recent ₹18,000 crore fundraising aimed at enhancing service offerings through substantial agreements with network suppliers.

Lastly, the growing relevance of combating digital threats such as spam, fraud, and phishing scams was underscored. In this context, they advocated for collaboration with the government and regulatory bodies to implement innovative solutions and promote public awareness campaigns. These campaigns would educate users on identifying and avoiding scams, ultimately fostering a safer digital environment.

Ericsson’s revenue set to rise with new 5G contracts

Swedish telecom company Ericsson has secured a new multi-billion dollar deal to supply 5G equipment to India‘s Bharti Airtel, according to sources. This follows a $3.6 billion contract last month with Vodafone Idea, shared with Nokia and Samsung, highlighting Ericsson’s expanding presence in India’s growing 5G market.

Ericsson’s shares rose nearly 9% on Tuesday after the company reported third-quarter earnings that exceeded analyst expectations, driven by strong demand in North America. Adjusted earnings reached 7.327 billion Swedish crowns ($0.7 billion), up from 3.9 billion crowns a year earlier, while net sales fell 4% year-on-year to 61.8 billion crowns, still surpassing forecasts. The North American market showed over 50% year-on-year growth, offsetting declines in northeast and southeast Asia.

CEO Börje Ekholm noted signs of market stabilisation, attributing demand for 5G largely to growth in mobile internet consumption. He highlighted that the rapid rollout of 5G in India has inflated sales but remains optimistic about growth opportunities despite challenges in China. With improved gross margins and positive outlook comments, analysts are forecasting upgrades to Ericsson’s earnings before interest and tax for 2024 and 2025. The results signal a recovery for Ericsson, which has faced slowing demand for its 5G equipment and previously announced layoffs to cut costs.

Orro launches critical infrastructure division in Australia and New Zealand

Orro is enhancing its operational technology (OT) capabilities with the launch of its new division, Orro Critical Infrastructure, aimed at serving Australia and New Zealand. That initiative represents a significant advancement in Orro’s commitment to providing innovative solutions tailored to meet the growing demands of the industrial sector.

The division will offer a comprehensive suite of specialised services, including network infrastructure, cybersecurity, distributed cloud systems, and private LTE wireless networks. A key component of this initiative is establishing a new Security Operations Centre (SOC) designed explicitly for OT customers, providing real-time protection against potential cyberattacks and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.

Additionally, Orro will focus on operational excellence by integrating best practices from IT and OT disciplines to effectively manage the complexities of OT production environments. The company will assess and stabilise existing critical infrastructure assets, working closely with industry regulators and clients to implement key transformations.

These expanded capabilities are expected to benefit customers across various sectors, including energy, transport and logistics, healthcare, retail, and state government entities, fostering innovation and resilience in critical infrastructure management.

Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire to enhance digital connectivity

Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire have entered into a partnership to interconnect their fiber optic networks, aiming to enhance digital infrastructure and improve network reliability in both countries. This interconnection is particularly important for Guinea, which currently relies on a single submarine cable, the ACE, while Côte d’Ivoire has access to six cables, providing greater redundancy. By linking their networks, both nations hope to strengthen their internet connectivity, reduce the risk of disruptions caused by incidents on international links, and increase overall resilience. Moreover, this move is part of a broader digital collaboration intended to reduce investment costs by pooling resources for large-scale infrastructure projects, thereby making digital development goals more attainable for both countries.

\In addition to the fiber optic interconnection, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire have committed to broader cooperation in the digital sector, including areas such as posts, telecommunications, and the digital economy. They will work together to strengthen cybersecurity, promote digital inclusion, and share expertise in innovative digital services. This partnership, therefore, represents a strategic effort to build a more robust digital ecosystem for both nations, enabling them to address common regional challenges, improve connectivity, and support technological growth. By collaborating, they aim not only to enhance their digital capabilities but also to advance their positions in the increasingly digital global landscape.