Copyright TechTarget - All rights reserved ComputerWeekly’s best articles of the day https://cyber.law.harvard.edu/rss/rss.html Techtarget Feed Generator en Mon, 11 May 2026 07:53:45 GMT https://www.computerweekly.com editor@computerweekly.com <p>Virtual reality (VR) has already seen many commercial and industrial uses. Yet VR also can be one of the most powerful tools for storytelling, visualising ideas and enhancing narratives – most obviously in the arts and entertainment sphere, where VR brings enhanced capabilities and enables artists to indulge in experiments to try out new approaches.</p> <p>Other storytelling uses support societal causes, enable new judicial procedures, boost education and become emphatic conduits. Simply, VR can put storytelling in a higher gear.</p> <p>Showing how VR enables new storytelling avenues and approaches for artists and entertainers, artist Charlotte Mikkelborg noticed the transformative power VR could unleash for narratives when <a href="https://charlottemikkelborg.com/">she first tried on a VR headset in 2015</a>: “I realised that I didn’t have to just watch a scene, I could live it.”</p> <p>Since then, she has created an immersive concert for Coldplay; a multisensory narrative game; and <em>Adventure</em>, her series for Apple that portrays extreme athletes in VR.</p> <p>Meanwhile, artist Estella Tse “merges tech and visual storytelling into <a href="https://estellatse.com/">a new art form</a>”, adding: “The immersive nature of VR metaphorically and literally puts the viewer into a different world. The brain feels like it is transported to another place.” In contrast to Mikkelborg’s VR experiences, Tse’s stories resemble art installations rather than narratives.</p> <p>It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the annual Venice Film Festival features an<a href="https://www.labiennale.org/en/cinema/2025/venice-immersive"> entire section related to the emerging artform</a>. Venice Immersive “is entirely devoted to immersive media and includes all XR means of creative expression”. Eligible for submission are all immersive videos, VR, MR, AR and XR works of any length, including installations and virtual worlds. A review by the <em>Guardian</em> describes 2025’s selection as a “flourishing <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/sep/05/venice-film-festival-extended-reality-xr-immersive-storytelling-ancestors-blur">lineup of immersive storytelling experiments</a>, [which] are taking visitors into novels, nightclubs and outer space”.</p> <p>At the 82nd Venice Film Festival in August and September 2025, the island of Lazzaretto Vecchio featured a wide range of XR artwork that invited audience members to immerse themselves into stories rather than just looking onto them. For example, <em>The Time Before</em> is “a virtual reality journey through memory, imagination and dreams”, which steps into the main character’s mind to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oahwg3hyE0">explore the imaginary worlds</a> his sister builds to protect them from the anger of their father. The piece <em>1968</em> is “communal VR theatre that explores the transformative power of protest through illusions to 1968, which was a year <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPgr1nul4ro">charged by societal, political and cultural unrest</a>”.</p> <p>Venice Immersive Jury chair Eliza McNitt sees XR as “<a href="https://www.anothermag.com/design-living/16597/venice-immersive-2025-xr-festival-eliza-mcnitt">the beginning of a revolution</a> ... [artists can] push the boundaries of storytelling”.</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Conveying societal causes"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Conveying societal causes</h2> <p>The way VR can bring stories and narratives closer to an audience lends itself to highlight social and societal issues in more impactful ways than previously possible. Journalist Becca Warner outlined her experience with VR content created by South African Habitat XR. The company’s objective is to create “<a href="https://www.habitatxr.com/">immersive nature storytelling</a> that drives public engagement, education, fundraising and conservation outcomes.”</p> <p>Warner watched <em>A Predicament of Pangolins</em>, an immersive story featuring two wild pangolins in the Kalahari Desert who are facing the challenges of climate change. The anthropomorphised animals are created “for maximum empathy and cognitive connection to the present reality of climate change”. Warner highlights VR’s impact: “A virtual reality pangolin made me cry and care more about the planet: is this the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20250306-the-future-of-conservation-might-be-in-vr-headsets">real power of VR headsets?</a>”</p> <p>Exploring how humans live with nature is a common theme. <a href="https://wildimmersion.io/">French company Wild Immersion</a> is “dedicated to raising awareness of environmental issues through 360° films, VR experiences, AR journeys, wildlife encyclopaedias and interactive drawings”. And the British artist collective <a href="https://marshmallowlaserfeast.com/">Marshmallow Laser Feast</a> is using stories in immersive experiences and XR that are “designed to carve out space to expose, explore and expand our relationship with the living world”.</p> <p>The UK’s Natural History Museum uses VR headsets to look a century into the future to <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/visit/exhibitions/visions-of-nature.html">visualise humans’ impact on nature</a>. The showcase’s main takeaway is that “the actions we take today will help build a better tomorrow.”</p> <p>Alex Burch, director of public programmes at the museum, explains that the immersive story shows “the aftermath of centuries of human industrial activity as well as to the interventions we have introduced to remedy our unsustainable activity”.</p> <p>New York artist Sam Wolson <a href="https://www.samwolson.com/">uses VR</a> to tell political narratives. For instance, <em>Re-educated</em> puts viewers into a Chinese re-education camp to convey the experience of prisoners, with first-hand testimony informing the animation. And <em>No Place at Home</em> follows a mother and her transgender teenager on their search for gender-affirming care, combining photorealistic three-dimensional imagery.</p> <p>Wolson explains where VR can improve storytelling: “With virtual reality and interactive visual features, it comes down to whether a story is suited to multimedia or nonlinear narratives, in which the viewer can be placed directly into a story with the freedom to move around.”</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Recovering memories, creating experiences"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Recovering memories, creating experiences</h2> <p>A less-known and emerging use of VR is visualising memories to resurrect past experiences. For instance, in December 2024, judge Andrew Siegel of Florida’s Broward County Circuit Court used a <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/larsdaniel/2025/01/06/historic-first-judge-dons-oculus-vr-headset-to-experience-crime">VR headset to a recreate the imagery</a> of an aggravated assault. The defence hired an expert to visualise the defendant’s perspective in a stand-your ground trial. <a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/epdf/10.1145/3411764.3445464"></a></p> <p><a href="https://dl.acm.org/doi/epdf/10.1145/3411764.3445464">Previous research at the University of South Australia</a> indicated that test subjects showed improvements in spatial recall, “remembering the correct placement of evidence items”, and some aspects of narrative recall when using VR in comparison to the use of still imagery.</p> <p>The approach offers benefits when crime-site visits are difficult or dangerous, contextual information plays an important role, or interactions among individuals are complicated to follow. Louisiana Fifth Circuit Court judge Scott Schlegel, who investigates new technologies for legal applications, points to a potential drawback. Virtual reality recreations “may powerfully convey emotions and perspective; it may be less reliable for <a href="https://judgeschlegel.substack.com/p/from-foam-board-to-virtual-reality">conveying specific factual details</a> that are crucial in legal proceedings.” In other words, emotions might cloud or even bias factual judgement.</p> <p>Other applications for recreating memories exist. Researcher Rob Martin at South Carolina’s Clemson University employs VR so that hospice patients can have an experience they always wanted to have. After taking a survey of local patients, he found that most wanted to experience one more Clemson football game. With <a href="https://news.clemson.edu/one-last-game-students-build-virtual-reality-experience-for-hospice-patients">the help of the Clemson’s Tandem VR team</a>, Martin created such a visualisation.</p> <p>Tandem VR is a part of Clemson’s Virtual Reality and Nature Lab. The lab’s director Olivia McAnirlin developed a concept that allows users to share a VR experience “in tandem”. The “experiences are synchronised (simultaneous) so they can fully enjoy them together, personalised to their preferences based on their experiences, dreams or memories”.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Informing education"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Informing education</h2> <p>Storytelling is set to play a bigger role in tomorrow’s teaching and learning, and XR can transform education though new ways to bring stories alive. Eli Joseph at Columbia University School in New York believes that the merging of literature and technology “<a href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/xr-technology-could-revolutionise-storytelling">transforms storytelling from a linear into an interactive experience</a> in which the reader’s choices can influence the narrative”.</p> <p>Joseph notes that readers can immerse themselves in stories by addressing multiple senses, and that multisensory environments for genuinely immersive experiences enables users to take a closer look at ways how XR can create layers of experiences. Joseph also believes that the technology can benefit text books – for instance, by visualising dissection of cells in biology class.</p> <p>VR not only can create narratives but also tell stories from the past. For example, the Illinois Holocaust Museum’s Experience360 is using VR to make history palpable. <a href="https://www.ilholocaustmuseum.org/experience360">The Chicago museum uses the technology</a> “to witness stories of survival, ask questions and reflect on the past in ways that inspire empathy, respect and hope”.</p> <p>Other institutions have taken note. The Centreville Regional Library in Fairfax, Virginia, partnered with the Illinois Holocaust Museum. Luis Aponte, an information services librarian who <a href="https://www.fairfaxtimes.com/articles/hear-the-stories-of-holocaust-survivors-through-virtual-reality/article_04157b0f-4684-4778-9efe-ca0c03fae557.html">brought the experience to Centreville,</a> praises “the Illinois Holocaust Museum’s dedication to preserving history in a way that transforms the future”.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Eliciting empathy"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Eliciting empathy</h2> <p>Educational use of VR can deepen the experience by eliciting empathy for history’s protagonists and witnesses. In a study by Stanford University, researchers looked at <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-21098-z">the effect VR can have to “reduce psychological distance to locations</a> affected by climate change, influencing climate emotions and risk perceptions”.</p> <p>One group of test subjects were only listening to news broadcasts about flooding in selected locations due to climate change while other participants were virtually flying through a three-dimensional representation of the floodings. Participants that experienced the virtualisation became concerned about climate change.</p> <p>“<a href="https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/10/virtual-reality-climate-change-communities-research">Utilising VR for climate education</a> can enhance awareness and inspire constructive actions, moving beyond traditional fear-driven narratives,” said the study.</p> <p>VR can also elevate emotional participation. In 2015, musician Björk released the album&nbsp;<em>Vulnicura</em>, which deals with her emotional breakup of a long-time relationship. She recently worked with Pulse Jet Studios <a href="https://www.pulsejetstudios.com/">to create a VR visualisation of the songs</a>. Björk explained her motivation: “I realised that I’d written a whole heartbreak album ... what most people were complaining about with VR is it was very isolating.”</p> <p><a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/09/23/nx-s1-5543338/bjork-vr-vulnicura-remastered">The VR journey</a> starts in an austere landscape of Iceland, where Björk hails from. Users then can thread together Björk’s broken heart. Her initial VR art was released shortly after the album’s release, but over time she frequently updated the storytelling as VR become more powerful and capable, resulting in the most recent 2025 version.</p> <p>And this takes the conversation back to arts and entertainment. VR’s impact on storytelling can affect many applications areas across industries, sometimes in surprising ways. Over time immersive capabilities will become an expectation rather than a surprise when experiencing stories and narratives across various types of content.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about immersive technologies</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Expanding-sensory-experiences-in-virtual-environments">Expanding sensory experiences in virtual environments</a>: Augmented, virtual and extended realities are all trying to allow users to interact with virtual information in ways we are used to in real life.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/AI-XR-digital-twins-set-to-transform-robotics">AI, XR, digital twins set to transform robotics</a>: The availability of advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, digital twins, XR and robotics has changed technology-driven markets. We look at how the intersection of these technologies will create commercial opportunities.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366626251/AR-VR-headset-market-reaching-critical-tipping-point">AR/VR headset market reaching ‘critical tipping point’</a>: Research finds marked uptick in immersive technologies market with 18.1% year-on-year growth fuelled by immersive and versatile experiences, with future growth anticipated to be driven by mixed and extended reality.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/The-many-ways-AI-can-empower-XR">The many ways AI can empower XR</a>: There is an almost ‘irresistible’ marriage between artificial intelligence and extended reality, yet while their combination will create benefits, there will also be some downsides.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p><em>Martin Schwirn is the author of ‘Small data, big disruptions: How to spot signals of change and manage uncertainty’ (ISBN 9781632651921). Schwirn has advised companies internationally for SRI International and Business Finland. He is a strategy and innovation consultant for Global 2000 companies.</em></p> </section> Storytelling will play a bigger role in tomorrow’s society – whether through teaching and learning, arts and entertainment, or health – with virtual reality technology seeking to transform experiences by bringing stories alive https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/Ericsson-5G-VR-AR-PR-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Immersive-narratives-how-VR-transforms-industries-through-storytelling Fri, 08 May 2026 06:51:00 GMT <p>Europe’s mobile networks risk falling further behind the world’s digital leaders unless investment conditions change quickly through targeted government campaigns, warns a GSMA study, which found the region’s operators are investing significantly less per connection than global peers, despite rising data usage and growing demands from artificial intelligence (AI), transport and industry.</p> <p>Furthermore, the <a title="https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/o3l-CDkY05iMXZ5RjsWfrUjvALg?domain=urldefense.com" href="https://www.gsma.com/about-us/regions/europe/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Mobile-Investment-Needs-in-Europe-GSMA.pdf"><i>Mobile investment needs in Europe</i></a> report from the global mobile trade association calculated that investment of as much as €475bn was required over the next decade to complete Europe’s 5G journey and regain digital leadership, but a €205bn funding gap is currently leaving critical infrastructure, innovation and resilience at risk.</p> <p>The report was conducted by the investment arm of the trade body and is said to have come as Europe’s digital capabilities continue to lag behind leading global standards. It noted that while <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639259/Global-5G-standalone-dynamic-shifts-from-coverage-to-capability">5G standalone</a> (5G SA) – essentially what it described as “full” 5G, with faster speeds, lower latency, and innovative services and features deriving from <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639478/Nokia-AWS-demo-agentic-AI-network-slicing-with-du-Orange">network slicing</a> – is already available to 80% of the population in Greater China and almost 50% in India, in Europe, it reaches only 2% of citizens.</p> <p>Much of the lag described by the GSMA is attributed to the more favourable investment conditions in these non-European markets. Indeed, the study discovered that capital expenditure (capex) per connection in Europe is just €35, compared with €70 for global connectivity leaders. The stark net result, stressed the GSMA, was that the European bloc remained unable to keep pace and compete.&nbsp;</p> <p>And while mobile internet usage has increased every year since 2018 by an average of 27%, operator revenues were found to have fallen by an average of 3% per year over the same period, further restricting available investment capital. The GSMA also highlighted how the financial burden currently sits with the industry itself, with operators themselves putting up 85% of the investment into network infrastructure, <a href="https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/connectivity-for-good/public-policy/gsma_resources/mobile-infrastructure-investment-landscape/">according to other data from its intelligence arm</a>.</p> <p>The GSMA also regarded the new analysis as a timely update on the <a href="https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/library/investment-and-funding-needs-digital-decade-connectivity-targets">European Commission’s 2023 research</a> into the likely cost of achieving the <a href="https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/europes-digital-decade">Digital Decade</a> targets. This estimated that around €174bn, rising to more than €200bn, of digital investment was needed by 2030.</p> <p>However, the GSMA warned that the operators have already invested €141bn since 2021 and Europe has not yet met those targets, while trailing further behind global 5G leaders. The report finds that of the current €475bn investment need to 2035, only 57% is currently forecast to materialise.</p> <p>Of the aforementioned €205bn, the 43% deficit, around half was seen as needed to provide 5G coverage across Europe’s main transport routes such as road, rail and waterways. A further €35bn was seen to be required to extend 5G coverage to the entire European population, while €38bn was seen as appropriate to build greater network resilience and €28bn to underpin AI-based services and innovation.</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="What can be done to close the investment gap?"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>What can be done to close the investment gap?</h2> <p>Looking at how the industry would close the gap and create the required investment conditions to unlock the remaining 43%, the report outlined three areas of major potential regulatory reform: in-market consolidation, effective spectrum management and addressing asymmetrical regulation.</p> <p>Regarding the former, the study observed that since 2015, <a href="https://www.gsma.com/about-us/regions/europe/news/competition-dynamics-in-mobile-markets-in-europe/">three-player markets in Europe have experienced higher investment levels</a> as a proportion of revenues and per connection relative to four-player markets, while also improving service quality by comparison.</p> <blockquote class="main-article-pullquote"> <div class="main-article-pullquote-inner"> <figure> Europe needs a significantly more pro-investment regulatory environment to secure the continent’s digital future and enhance global competitiveness </figure> <figcaption> <strong>Vivek Badrinath, GSMA</strong> </figcaption> <i class="icon" data-icon="z"></i> </div> </blockquote> <p>In addition, the GSMA observed that spectrum costs in Europe have almost tripled over the past decade and <a href="https://www.gsma.com/connectivity-for-good/spectrum/gsma_resources/spectrum-pricing-and-renewals-in-europe/">applying measures such as&nbsp;low-cost renewals could free up to €30bn in capital</a>, with more than 500 licences due for renewal by 2035. The GSMA believes that long-term certainty offered by indefinite licences, such as those proposed in the European Union’s draft Digital Networks Act, would also lead to improved investment incentives.</p> <p>The association also remarked that a range of current regulations, including around open internet access and net neutrality, the Cyber Resilience Act, and the European Electronic Communications Code, could impose additional costs and reduce revenue growth opportunities.</p> <p>It suggested that a more balanced relationship between mobile operators and other players in the digital ecosystem could encourage investment in networks, and ultimately drive industry and innovation.</p> <p>Ultimately, the GSMA said that realigning Europe’s investment environment through these policy reforms would allow the region’s capex per connection to potentially double over the coming decade and reach similar levels to those in North America and East Asia. This, in turn, could help deliver the real user and market benefits of 5G SA and <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639874/Qualcomm-plots-out-6G-Wi-Fi-8-future-with-AI-as-the-new-user-interface">ultimately 6G connectivity</a>, and underpin Europe’s economy, resilience and innovation in the digital age.</p> <p>“The numbers are clear: to support Europe’s digital ambitions and expectations, almost €0.5tn in investment into mobile networks is needed over the next 10 years, and only around half of that is currently likely to come through. Europe needs a significantly more pro-investment regulatory environment to secure the continent’s digital future and enhance global competitiveness,” said GSMA director general Vivek Badrinath.</p> <p>“There are encouraging opportunities for policymakers, both in the ongoing <a href="https://competition-policy.ec.europa.eu/mergers/review-merger-guidelines_en">review of the Merger Guidelines</a>&nbsp;and in delivering on the promise of the Digital Networks Act proposals, correcting for its known shortcomings without watering down its more ambitious aspects. Inaction now is not an option with Europe’s digital future on the line.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about 5G in Europe</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366627194/UK-among-worst-performers-in-Europe-for-fundamental-5G-metrics">UK among&nbsp;worst performers in Europe&nbsp;for fundamental 5G metrics</a>: Study from mobile network testing firm uncovers gaps in UK 5G performance compared with European leaders, with ‘significant’ disparity between theoretical population coverage and the daily reality for millions.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366619530/Europe-severely-lags-other-major-regions-in-5G-standalone">Europe ‘severely’ lags other major regions in 5G standalone</a>: Research from network intelligence company shows interplay of earlier deployments, more diversified multi-band spectrum and greater willingness to invest in new use cases have driven 5G SA roll-outs at a faster rate.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639110/Telefonica-activates-commercial-Edge-services-in-Spain">Telefónica activates commercial Edge services in Spain</a>: As part of its Edge Plan in Europe, Spain-based global telco begins marketing business-to-business services in five of the 17 nodes planned for this year supported by FTTH, 5G network and Open Gateway APIs.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366627652/European-5G-landscape-on-a-rollercoaster">European 5G landscape ‘on a rollercoaster’</a>: Research finds impact of spectrum availability across Europe, leading to disparity of 5G download speeds with increases in the use of the 3.5GHz spectrum strongly correlating with faster 5G downloads.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> The global mobile association calls on targeted regulatory reform from European governments to close the 5G funding gap by focusing on consolidation and smarter spectrum policy https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/HeroImages/T-Mobile-5G-Advanced-mast-PR-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642836/GSMA-205bn-funding-gap-leaving-Europes-critical-infrastructure-at-risk Fri, 08 May 2026 06:25:00 GMT <p>Noting that, for decades, networking ran in the background, but is now a true central nervous system that determines how fast businesses can move, how much they spend and, perhaps crucially right now, whether AI investments produce value, infrastructure firm Lumen Technologies is to acquire cloud-native, carrier-agnostic networking platform Alkira.</p> <p>Alkira serves enterprise customers across financial services, technology, retail, healthcare and manufacturing sectors globally. The proposed $475m all-cash transaction – expected to close in the third quarter of 2026 – is designed to pair Alkira’s hybrid and multicloud native control plane with Lumen’s fibre network, advancing the latter’s digital platform strategy to deliver cloud-like consumption for global enterprise networking.</p> <p>On closing the transaction, Lumen plans to begin offering Alkira’s core connectivity services to its enterprise base, with deeper platform integration to follow. For Alkira, the combination with Lumen will pair its cloud-native orchestration with a high-bandwidth, low-latency fibre network, including private networks, significantly extending its reach and performance. Lumen’s commercial engine and global customer base will also provide a scaled distribution path.</p> <p>The underlying rationale for the acquisition is said to be the programmable network imperative in how AI is reshaping how enterprises operate and how their networks must perform. Lumen noted that <a href="https://www.lumen.com/blog/en-us/kate-johnson-programmable-network">more than half of current internet traffic is automated traffic generated by software systems rather than human users</a>. That means networks have to be big enough, fast enough, intelligent enough and secure enough to keep up.</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="A new category of enterprise networking"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>A new category of enterprise networking</h2> <p>Yet, said Lumen, many enterprise networks remain static, manually configured and fragmented across providers. To alleviate this issue, it said it is working to define a new category of enterprise networking – one built on world-class physical infrastructure, a programmable network and a connected ecosystem of clouds, applications and partners.&nbsp;</p> <p>Lumen regards the acquisition as a way to accelerate its vision of a programmable network with a single control plane that orchestrates connectivity beyond its network across datacentres, multiple clouds, partner ecosystems and on-premise environments.</p> <p>Combined with Lumen’s core assets, the acquisition is seen as able to deliver strategic value through fronts such as platform acceleration, expanded addressable market, international reach, deeper partner integration and “world-class” talent.</p> <p>Once acquired and integrated, the Alkira product will unify Lumen’s on-net and off-net services, cloud on-ramps and multicloud gateway into a single programmable platform. Lumen believes this will advance its roadmap by several years and substantially complete its digital architecture.</p> <p>Lumen’s network-as-a-service (NaaS) business is currently concentrated in premises-to-cloud (north-south) connectivity. The acquisition is also seen as accelerating Lumen’s move into cloud-to-cloud and datacentre-interconnect (east-west) connectivity – the fastest growing segment of enterprise networking. Lumen estimates Alkira’s global footprint and cloud-native capabilities will bring its total addressable market to approximately $70bn.</p> <p>Another key facet is AI-ready agility. That is, networks can be activated and modified on demand, with capacity that scales up or down as workloads shift, so customers pay only for what they use. This is said to deliver the <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641133/AI-driven-operating-model-key-to-cloud-native-autonomous-networks">performance, resilience and security AI workloads require</a>, turning network changes from multi-month projects into real-time actions.</p> <p>Commenting on the deal, Alkira CEO Amir Khan said: “We built Alkira on a single conviction: enterprise networking had to be reinvented for the cloud and AI era – programmable, on-demand, consumed, not built. By joining Lumen, we will pair our cloud-native orchestration with one of the world’s most expansive fibre networks and a proven commercial engine, setting a new standard for how enterprises build and run networks in a multicloud and AI world.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about AI for networking</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642566/Extreme-Connect-26-Agent-ONE-takes-forward-network-AI">Extreme Connect 26: Agent ONE takes forward network AI</a>: Network firm launches ‘smarter, faster, autonomous’ approach to enterprise networking, with its operating model moving from assistive AI to autonomous, always-on operations.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641094/Marvell-scales-up-networking-to-extend-Nvidia-AI-ecosystem">Marvell scales up networking to extend Nvidia AI ecosystem</a>: AI GPU leader sees extension of AI infrastructure through collaboration with infrastructure technology to deliver more choice and flexibility for customers with fully compatible systems.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641242/Cisco-network-readiness-a-determining-factor-for-AI-success">Network readiness a determining factor for AI success</a>: Report reveals how&nbsp;firms are harnessing AI to drive progress and overcome industry challenges, with most expecting ‘significant’ increases in connectivity and reliability demands.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641460/Optical-networks-to-bridge-the-AI-compute-consumption-gap">Optical networks to bridge the AI compute-consumption gap</a>: With AI spurring gigawatt-scale datacentre builds across APAC, Ciena is deploying ultra-fast, energy-efficient optical networking and AI-driven automation to ensure AI services can reach consumers.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> Acquisition to see physical infrastructure and programmable network united with cloud-native control plane to deliver a single, digital connectivity platform with cloud-to-cloud and datacentre-interconnect https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/fibre-broadband-FTTP-abstract-adobe.jpeg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642684/Alkira-acquisition-gives-Lumen-cloud-connectivity-control-plane Fri, 08 May 2026 05:50:00 GMT <p>In the latest part of its recent continued efforts to build end-to-end space systems, Swissto12 has inked a major contract with German high-performance space subsystem provider HPS/LSS to provide its HummingSat platform with a large deployable L-band reflector antenna that unfolds in orbit after launch.</p> <p>Adding extra capability to its core system, opening up an entirely new category of space system and an alternative to traditional low Earth orbit (LEO)-based D2D architectures, <a title="https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/dYJuCqxV2vtR9zLKNsXhRUEWbsq?domain=urldefense.com" href="https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/dYJuCqxV2vtR9zLKNsXhRUEWbsq?domain=urldefense.com">Swissto12</a> hopes to reinforce Europe’s advanced capabilities in satellite engineering, bringing together Swiss and German expertise in an ecosystem backed by the <a href="https://www.esa.int/">European space agency (ESA)</a>.</p> <p>Specifically, the collaboration will see the Munich-based consortium provide a large deployable reflector subsystem (LDRS) for the Neastar-1 mission, built on HummingSat, enabling what is claimed to be the world’s first direct-to-device media broadcasting capabilities from geostationary orbit.</p> <p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://swissto12.com/hummingsat">HummingSat platform</a> is described as a new class of geostationary satellites that are “significantly” smaller and more cost-efficient than conventional GEO craft. HummingSat is seen as offering new economics for the geostationary satellite market, unlocking faster builds, lower costs and ride-share launches. It should also offer a telecoms-grade service backbone that plugs directly into the 3GPP non-terrestrial networks standard, designed for mass-market adoption.</p> <p>Swissto12 believes its form factor can support cost-effective production and ride-share launch opportunities with its proprietary, space-qualified additive manufacturing technology and advanced radio frequency (RF) systems, further enhancing payload performance, streamlining production, and reducing manufacturing time and cost.</p> <p>The craft was developed in collaboration with the ESA through its public-private partnership programme. The company said its RF products benefit from unique and patented 3D printing technologies and associated radio frequency product designs that deliver lightweight, compact, high-performing and “competitive” RF functionality. First deliveries are scheduled for 2027.</p> <p>The German-led antenna reflector subsystem is the result of more than 15 years of development under the ESA’s Advanced Research in Telecommunications (Artes) programme, ESA’s Earth Observation Technology Development activities, and the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme. The contract for the Neastar-1-LDRS is co-funded by ESA, with core funding from the German Space Agency within the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) and further contributions from additional ESA member states.</p> <p>Since the inception of the HummingSat programme,&nbsp;Swissto12 has developed a large industrial footprint in Germany, and the company noted that this latest contract further strengthens the German partnership and contribution to HummingSat.</p> <p>In the context of future cooperation, Swissto12 said it is positioning its small geostationary satellite and advanced multi-orbit payload technologies as a “strong technical and strategic fit” with the German Federal Government’s Space Strategy, in particular, with its priorities around secure communications.</p> <p>The HPS/LSS consortium joins a network of German supply chain partners including ASP, AST, DLR, Tesat, Thales Germany, Jena Optronik and Rockwell Collins Germany.</p> <p>The company said that this ecosystem reflects an increasingly confident space posture, whereby European satellite companies are selected to build advanced systems for European customers – both commercial and government.</p> <p>“Collaboration with HPS/LSS was fast and effective from the first day. We value their culture of precision engineering, deep-tech innovation, and commitment to excellence along with a drive for fast and efficient execution,” said Emile de Rijk, CEO and founder of Swissto12. “They have demonstrated a strong technical heritage and proven&nbsp;track record in building LDRS, notably for ESA missions, underscoring the progress of ESA and DLR’s vision to develop resilient, sovereign space capabilities.”</p> <p>Laurent Jaffart, director of resilience, navigation and connectivity at ESA, added: “ESA’s long-term investment in innovation and partnerships enable cutting-edge technologies to be brought to market, crucially boosting Europe’s global competitiveness, while strengthening autonomy and resilience. By leveraging Europe’s industrial excellence within two of our key member states, this contract is a prime example of how strong collaboration will be translated into advancing the next-generation of connectivity – particularly in the direct-to-device domain.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about space communications</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642501/TMobile-Starlink-aim-to-reinvent-business-internet-from-ground-up-sky-down">T‑Mobile, Starlink aim to reinvent business internet from ground up, sky down</a>: US 5G internet provider inks deal with leading satellite constellation to deliver broadband with ‘virtually unbreakable’ connectivity.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641709/Amazon-acquires-Globalstar-to-expand-satellite-comms-business">Amazon acquires Globalstar to expand satellite comms business</a>: Strategic purchase to see satellites, radio frequency spectrum and operational expertise to enable existing Leo business to add direct-to-device services to future.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641666/SES-gains-altitude-for-in-flight-connectivity-with-Boeing-Japan-Airlines">SES gains altitude for in-flight connectivity with Boeing, Japan Airlines</a>: Satellite operator claims milestone towards line-fit offer for multi-orbit connectivity, with streamlined factory installation on Boeing craft and deal with Japanese carrier.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641696/Sateliot-launches-100m-series-C-financing-round">Sateliot launches €100m series C financing round</a>: Barcelona-based satellite operator announces investment that will see use in financing deployment of constellation and starts selection process for a lead investor in new round expected to close in summer.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Swiss manufacturer of advanced satellite solutions collaborates with German space subsystem provider for space tech system intended enable operations of small-GEO D2D satellite https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/earth-space-satellite-network-comms-adobe.jpeg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642763/SWISSto12-HPS-LSS-intro-satellite-unfurling-antenna-reflector Fri, 08 May 2026 04:39:00 GMT <p>Extreme Networks has unveiled Wi-Fi 7 access points (APs) to deliver “fast, secure connectivity” for critical use cases including real-time artificial intelligence (AI) workloads, AR/VR experiences, smart manufacturing, telehealth and high-density venues.</p> <p>Extreme said it offers “the industry’s most complete” deployment-ready Wi-Fi 7 portfolio, delivering APs that it adds combine “optimised performance with practical efficiency”. They see use in a variety of environments, including hospitals, stadiums, cost-effective deployments in schools, retail and hospitality, real-time applications and “next-generation digital experiences”.</p> <p>Global end users of Extreme’s Wi-Fi 7 solutions include <a href="https://www.baylor.edu/">Baylor University</a>, Henry Ford Health, Six Flags, <a href="https://www.uhb.nhs.uk/">University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust</a> and multiple teams within the <a href="https://www.nfl.com/">NFL</a>.</p> <p>The products comprise the <a href="https://www.extremenetworks.com/products/wi-fi-access-points/universal-aps-outdoor/ap5060">AP5060 series outdoor</a> and AP5022 series indoor APs. They aim to deliver “premium” performance with three 4x4 radios, a dedicated tri-band security sensor, and integrated internet of things (IoT) radios to support growing device demands.</p> <p>The AP5060 is engineered for harsh environments, combining a ruggedised design with the durability and resilience needed to deliver reliable, long-term connectivity in demanding settings such as hospitals, industrial facilities and stadiums.</p> <p>Both series support flexible tri-band operation on standard PoE+ (802.3at), allowing customers to deploy broadly while choosing the balance of radio performance, scanning and functionality for each environment.</p> <p>The AP3020 series indoor and AP3060 weatherised outdoor series deliver full-feature Wi-Fi 7 with 2x2 radio designs optimised for space and power-constrained environments such as schools, retail and hospitality.</p> <p>With a low-profile wall plate designed to balance aesthetics and functionality, the AP3020W is described as a natural fit for hospitality, education and multi-dwelling environments. The AP3020X includes support for external antennas, enabling more flexible designs for environments that benefit from directional Wi-Fi like high-density venues. The AP3060 is IP67-rated and offers a compact design with an extended temperature range, built to withstand harsh conditions from high winds to sub-zero temperatures.</p> <p>The products are managed through the <a href="https://www.extremenetworks.com/platform-one">Extreme Platform ONE system</a> and offer support for both low and standard power 6 GHz enables customers to benefit from Wi-Fi 7 performance gains without switch or power upgrades, delivering built-in compliance for global regulations.</p> <p>Siân Morgan, research director at analyst Dell’Oro Group, said: “Wi-Fi 7 adoption is accelerating as organisations scale IoT and real-time AI workloads. Extreme’s cloud-managed Wi-Fi 7 solutions combine high-performance hardware with intelligent management to simplify operations and keep networks ready for what’s next.”</p> <p>David Coleman, director of wireless in the office of the CTO at Extreme Networks, added: “These Wi-Fi 7 solutions will help customers to meet demands with stronger performance for modern AI-driven environments, improved power efficiency, and simpler deployment and operations at scale.”</p> <p>Recently, Extreme has been upgrading sports arena communications, replacing legacy Wi-Fi 5 with a full Wi-Fi 7 upgrade – at arenas such as that of <a href="https://www.lenovocenter.com/teams/detail/carolina-hurricanes">Carolina Hurricanes at the Lenovo Centre</a> – to deliver faster, more reliable connectivity throughout arenas and improve fan experiences.</p> <p>In its most recent deployment, the <a href="https://floridagators.com/sports/2020/4/4/ben-hill-griffin-stadium">University of Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium</a>, commonly known as The Swamp, will see the installation of the first Wi‑Fi 7 network in a collegiate stadium. Extreme claimed that with Wi‑Fi 7, The Swamp will be setting a new bar for what a packed venue can deliver, ushering in a new era of fan connectivity.</p> <p>The Wi‑Fi 7 network should enable “seamless” <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641772/Cintegral-taps-Taara-connectivity-for-real-time-live-media-production">4K/8K video streaming</a>, instant social sharing and real-time stats access. The infrastructure is stated to have the required low latency&nbsp;for responsive mobile experiences, including in-seat ordering and interactive apps. Extreme said that its network supports improved device capacity,&nbsp;supporting tens of thousands of concurrent connections without performance degradation, with consistent coverage&nbsp;across seating bowls, concourses, suites and outdoor areas.</p> <p>The installation will complement the University of Florida’s planned stadium renovation, designed to modernise the facility with wider concourses, improved entrances and exits, new premium seating options, enhanced concessions, and upgraded scoreboard and sound systems.</p> <p>“On game day, The Swamp transforms into one of the most electrifying and densely connected environments in college sports,” said Matt Vincent, assistant athletics director, information technology at the University of Florida. “As we continue to invest in the fan experience at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, adding Wi-Fi 7 allows us to significantly increase capacity while enabling smarter, real-time connectivity that helps everything run smoothly at peak demand.</p> <p>“The network-infrastructure-as-a-service (NIaaS) model from Extreme Networks also provides the flexibility to scale as needed without significant upfront investment, allowing our IT team to operate more efficiently while delivering a consistently high-quality digital experience for every fan.”</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="The Wi-Fi battle in Europe"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>The Wi-Fi battle in Europe</h2> <p>Yet even as it was rolling out the Wi-Fi product line, Extreme expressed concern that the roll-out of Wi-Fi 7 products outside of the US could be stymied through issues regarding the allocation of the upper band of 6 GHz spectrum. In Europe, there has been a battle between&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366621094/Nokia-enhances-Wi-Fi-7-enabled-FWA-gateway-portfolio">Wi-Fi</a>&nbsp;operators and telcos over the ownership of the upper&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366587546/Nokia-Telia-claim-successful-outdoor-trial-in-6-GHz-range-with-Massive-MIMO">6 GHz band</a> of the coveted frequency range.</p> <p>The telcos argue that enabling this band for mobile use will ensure&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252500991/Unlicensed-6GHz-spectrum-puts-5G-economic-potential-at-risk-warns-GSMA">consumers and businesses receive even faster and more reliable 5G services</a>&nbsp;over the next five to 10 years, while avoiding a mobile capacity crunch caused by soaring demand for bandwidth as more devices and services, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366554354/Qualcomm-looks-to-reshape-digital-world-through-spatial-computing">augmented reality headsets</a>, health sensors and vehicles, are connected to mobile networks that require greater processing power and capacity.</p> <p>For their part, the Wi-Fi providers warn that without additional Wi-Fi spectrum, European businesses will be less globally competitive due to higher wireless connectivity costs and less access to new technologies. Advocates say Wi-Fi in the upper 6 GHz band will deliver high-speed, ultra-low latency, low-cost, high-speed connectivity that will enable innovations in industry, including automated manufacturing, smart logistics and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366620872/Qualcomm-Palantir-extend-AI-to-the-edge-for-industrial-IoT">industrial IoT</a>.</p> <p>Explaining the issue at hand through the evolution of wireless comm standards, Coleman told Computer Weekly that the introduction of Wi-Fi 6E – the first Wi-Fi generation to introduce 6 Hz comms – was not a new but a spectrum paradigm shift. This spectrum has been available in the US for around five years and has been a “big game changer” in terms of the future of applications on the back of the 6 GHz spectrum and that, in terms of potential, Wi-Fi 7 is “bringing that home”.</p> <p>However, despite the company’s success in fitting out stadia such as the Lenovo Centr and The Swamp, Coleman revealed that the biggest challenge for Extreme in deciding what to build in outdoor developments, especially in stadiums, was the regulatory rules regarding 6 GHz.</p> <p>“That has been very challenging,” he said. “There are different rules for indoors and outdoors, and there are different rules for weatherised devices. Even though it’s been five years, the rules are still changing. So, we have daily conversations. It’s settled in solid here in the US, but regulatory [conditions] in the rest of the world for 6 GHz is still a work in progress.</p> <p>“The biggest problem with Europe … is [regulators are] behind the US. This is because there’s only 500 MHz of the frequency space. We have 1,200 [in the US] for 6 GHz. [Europe] still doesn’t have standard power or outdoor [standards]. So, we need spectrum harmonisation.</p> <p>“Why should the Americans be the only ones that have 1200 MHz of frequency space? It should be a worldwide thing, [but] that makes it challenging for us on what we build, because sometimes what we build isn’t going to work the same way in a different country.”&nbsp;</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about Wi-Fi</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366638609/Broadcom-claims-enterprise-Wi-Fi-8-first">Broadcom claims enterprise Wi-Fi 8 first</a>: Unified, wireless-first architecture based on latest wireless standard designed to address rising demand for hybrid work, and deliver performance, efficiency and security for next-gen enterprise networking.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366636333/Three-in-five-businesses-more-confident-in-Wi-Fi-investment">Three in five businesses more confident in Wi-Fi investment</a>: Research finds 60% of businesses see converged Wi-Fi and 5G as key to enterprise flexibility, with 38% planning to roll out Wi-Fi 7 in 2025/2026, while 65% say 6 GHz availability is important to their Wi-Fi business.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641140/Wireless-AI-paradox-emerges-as-Wi-Fi-evolves-into-strategic-growth-engine">Wireless AI paradox emerges as Wi-Fi evolves into strategic growth engine</a>: Research finds businesses must adapt to diverse connectivity needs, and support a growing spectrum of users and devices including employees, contractors, robots, sensors and AI applications.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639493/Alcatel-Lucent-looks-to-make-Wi-Fi-7-affordable-for-everyday-connectivity">Alcatel-Lucent looks to make Wi-Fi 7 affordable for everyday connectivity</a>: Enterprise networking and communication services provider offers entry-level access point based on latest wireless standard to deliver advanced wireless capabilities at a cost-effective price.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> Wi-Fi 7 access points designed to provide reliable, high-speed connectivity and key deployment made at University of Florida arena https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/Wi-Fi-network-hardware-escapejaja-adobe.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642758/Extreme-Connect-26-Wi-Fi-7-line-aims-to-address-needs-of-6GHz-era Thu, 07 May 2026 09:18:00 GMT <p>A <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639704/Police-do-not-have-to-explain-to-lawyer-Fahad-Ansari-why-they-seized-his-phone-data-says-court">solicitor, whose mobile phone containing legally privileged material was seized</a> and downloaded by police, was wrongly identified in a police risk assessment as a Hamas member.</p> <p>Fahad Ansari, who specialises in national security cases, argues that police unlawfully stopped and questioned him because they wrongly “equated” him acting as a lawyer for Hamas with being a member of the proscribed organisation.</p> <p>The case is believed to be the first targeted use of Schedule 7 powers against a practising solicitor. Under Schedule 7 legislation, police can stop and question people and seize their electronic devices, without the need for suspicion, to determine whether they appear to be involved in terrorism.</p> <p>The Court of Appeal ordered an immediate stay on Tuesday of a judicial review brought by Ansari while it considers whether <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639704/Police-do-not-have-to-explain-to-lawyer-Fahad-Ansari-why-they-seized-his-phone-data-says-court">police should be required by law to disclose details of their case against him</a>.</p> <p>Ansari, an Irish solicitor who is representing Hamas in a legal appeal to have its proscribed status overturned in the UK, was stopped and questioned by police in August 2025 while travelling home with his family from Ireland to Holyhead.</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Police risk assessment stated ‘Hamas’ membership"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Police risk assessment stated ‘Hamas’ membership</h2> <figure class="main-article-image half-col" data-img-fullsize="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/North-Wales-Police-risk-assessment-Fahad-Ansari-800px.jpg"> <img data-src="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/North-Wales-Police-risk-assessment-Fahad-Ansari-800px_half_column_mobile.jpg" class="lazy" data-srcset="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/North-Wales-Police-risk-assessment-Fahad-Ansari-800px_half_column_mobile.jpg 960w,https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/North-Wales-Police-risk-assessment-Fahad-Ansari-800px.jpg 1280w" alt="Image shows police risk review document, with solicitor Fahad Ansari identified as a Hamas member" height="412" width="279"> <figcaption> <i class="icon pictures" data-icon="z"></i>Police risk review identified solicitor Fahad Ansari as a Hamas member </figcaption> <div class="main-article-image-enlarge"> <i class="icon" data-icon="w"></i> </div> </figure> <p>A police officer who completed a risk assessment made a handwritten note under the heading “membership of a known group” stating “Hamas”.</p> <p>According to a legal submission from Ansari’s barrister for a <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366630116/Hamas-lawyer-challenges-police-after-they-seized-legal-files-from-phone-in-Schedule-7-stop">judicial review</a> – originally due to be held today (6 May 2026), the police officer was “essentially” equating Ansari, who is not a member of Hamas, with his client.</p> <p>The police officer confirmed in a witness statement that his note was inaccurate. “What I had intended to write was that Mr Ansari worked as a solicitor for Hamas, and not that he was a member of the group,” he said.</p> <p>The officer added that no other officers involved in the stop or the examination of Ansari’s phone saw the note and that it did not affect any of the decisions made by other officers. “Everyone clearly understood the position that Mr Ansari was the solicitor for Hamas,” he wrote.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Ansari not questioned in earlier stop"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Ansari not questioned in earlier stop</h2> <p>It emerged that Ansari had been stopped previously, in 2024, under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, before he represented Hamas, in what appeared to be a random stop.</p> <p>He identified himself as a solicitor and was not asked any questions about Hamas or Palestine. He did not have his mobile phone seized, downloaded or copied on that first occasion, unlike his later Schedule 7 stop, barrister Hugh Southey KC wrote in a skeleton argument.</p> <p>He said the significant difference between the two Schedule 7 stops was that Ansari had made an application on behalf of Hamas before the second stop.</p> <p>The chief constable of North Wales Police has made contradictory statements about the reasons for stopping Ansari in 2025.</p> <p>In January 2026, she stated that “there was an underlying reason or reason for the stop: it was not random”. The chief constable now states that she has “not confirmed” that the stop was a “targeted stop”.</p> <p>It appears that the chief constable has approached litigation heard in open court in a “confused, contradictory and less than candid manner”, Southey wrote.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Legally privileged material"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Legally privileged material</h2> <p>The phone seized by North Wales Police contained legally privileged material, including communications with clients, their families, witnesses and experts, along&nbsp;with documents, financial information and internet research related to clients.</p> <figure class="main-article-image half-col" data-img-fullsize="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/Fahad-Ansari-solicitor-800px-h.jpg"> <img data-src="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/Fahad-Ansari-solicitor-800px-h_half_column_mobile.jpg" class="lazy" data-srcset="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/Fahad-Ansari-solicitor-800px-h_half_column_mobile.jpg 960w,https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/Fahad-Ansari-solicitor-800px-h.jpg 1280w" alt="Photo shows solicitor Fahad Ansari, who was stopped under Schedule 7 powers" height="302" width="279"> <figcaption> <i class="icon pictures" data-icon="z"></i>Solicitor Fahad Ansari is seeking a judicial review against North Wales Police </figcaption> <div class="main-article-image-enlarge"> <i class="icon" data-icon="w"></i> </div> </figure> <p>A police officer subsequently prepared a list of keywords, including names of UK proscribed organisations and words based on research the officer had conducted into Ansari, to allow an independent counsel to “sift and review” data on the solicitor’s phone.</p> <p>Ansari argues that the safeguards, including using an independent counsel to assess the contents of the phone, were inadequate to protect legally privileged material, and that he has no way of knowing whether such material was accessed by investigators.</p> <p>The chief constable wrote to Ansari in March this year, stating that the police had completed their examination of his work phone. Ansari has sought confirmation of whether police officers had inadvertently seen privileged material from the phone.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Lack of rights"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Lack of rights</h2> <p>The consequence of the approach taken by the chief constable of North Wales Police is that Ansari would be entitled to greater safeguards if he were investigated for having committed an offence, and where there had already been a judicial warrant, Southey wrote in the skeleton argument.</p> <blockquote class="main-article-pullquote"> <div class="main-article-pullquote-inner"> <figure> This is not Belfast in the 1980s when such messages were delivered by bullets, but the intention feels uncomfortably similar: represent clients and face consequences </figure> <figcaption> <strong>Fahad Ansari, solicitor</strong> </figcaption> <i class="icon" data-icon="z"></i> </div> </blockquote> <p>Ansari said that the Court of Appeal had recognised that his argument for greater disclosure from the police had merit.</p> <p>“Previously, the High Court allowed the police to rely on secret evidence. In situations like this, it’s normally expected that at least a summary of the allegations is shared to allow a semblance of a fair hearing,” he wrote in a post on LinkedIn.</p> <p>The police’s apparent lack of distinction between being a member of Hamas and being a legal representative of Hamas raises “serious concerns” and would deter lawyers from representing proscribed groups, he added.</p> <p>“This is not Belfast in the 1980s when such messages were delivered by bullets, but the intention feels uncomfortably similar: represent clients and face consequences,” he said.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Phantom Parrot"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Phantom Parrot</h2> <p>A document leaked by whistleblower Edward Snowden in 2013 raised concerns that information collected from phones during Schedule 7 searches was being covertly collected at UK borders under GCHQ’s “Phantom Parrot” programme.</p> <p>Ansari said North Wales Police had declined to say whether information from his phone had been shared with any other organisations.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about the case</h3> <ul type="square" class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639704/Police-do-not-have-to-explain-to-lawyer-Fahad-Ansari-why-they-seized-his-phone-data-says-court">Police do not have to explain to lawyer Fahad Ansari why they seized his phone data</a>, says court: A High Court judge has ruled that police do not have to give reasons to lawyer, who acts for Hamas, why they seized his mobile phone data&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366633407/Hamas-lawyer-seeks-appeal-following-polices-seizure-of-his-phone-at-Welsh-port">Hamas lawyer seeks appeal following police’s seizure of his phone at Welsh port</a>: Police ordered to give reasons in closed court for seizing phone of UK Hamas lawyer.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639704/Police-do-not-have-to-explain-to-lawyer-Fahad-Ansari-why-they-seized-his-phone-data-says-court">Police say that solicitors cannot have a ‘cast iron defence’ to protect their electronic devices from ever being searched</a>: London court orders police to disclose reasons for seizing and copying the contents of a phone belonging to a UK lawyer who represented Hamas, but refuses an injunction to prevent police from reviewing the phone until after judicial review</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366630116/Hamas-lawyer-challenges-police-after-they-seized-legal-files-from-phone-in-Schedule-7-stop">Hamas lawyer challenges police after they seized legal files from phone in Schedule 7 stop</a>: A UK solicitor hired by Hamas to challenge its proscription in the UK as a terrorist organisation argues police acted unlawfully by seizing a phone containing confidential legally privileged material about his clients.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <ul type="square" class="default-list"></ul> </section> A police officer wrongly described a solicitor acting for Hamas in an appeal against its proscribed status in the UK as a Hamas member during Schedule 7 phone seizure https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/UK-border-control-passport-travel-getty.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642804/Police-wrongly-identified-solicitor-Fahad-Ansari-as-Hamas-member-during-Schedule-7-phone-seizure Wed, 06 May 2026 12:54:00 GMT <p>With the company’s president of artificial intelligence (AI) platforms and chief technology officer (STO) Nabil Bukhari telling his customers that their businesses are not based on the networks that they signed up to just a short time ago, Extreme Networks has opened its annual Connect user conference with the launch of Agent ONE, described as a new class of AI agents for enterprise networking that moves beyond generic, prompt-based AI.</p> <p>The launch came at a time when Extreme’s customers had clear expectations form its product line. Customer surveys were showing three main demands: 93% trusted AI-powered networking; 94% were ready to invest in networking AI technologies; 57% were expecting results from their products in weeks.</p> <p>Bukhari emphasised the clear progression and evolution in networks over the past five to two years: “These networks we’re building and running are bigger, more complex and have more devices in it. Your companies rely on it a lot more, and your users want results faster. And what about your teams? They’re probably shrinking. These are not the networks that you signed up.&nbsp;</p> <p>“As networks begin to think, adapt and act in real-time, the relationship between human users and AI agents will rapidly evolve, making simplicity and control essential to success. Our vision is autonomous networking at scale delivered on a foundation of trust between humans and AI agents, which means fewer disruptions, faster outcomes and operational efficiency.”</p> <p>To that end, <a href="https://investor.extremenetworks.com/news/news-details/2026/Introducing-Extreme-Agent-ONE-A-Smarter-Faster-Autonomous-Approach-to-Enterprise-Networking/default.aspx">Agent ONE</a> runs on an AI stack that is said to be purpose-built for enterprise environments, which combines advanced AI reasoning, live network context and operational expertise to transform enterprise networks into systems that detect and act autonomously in the established governance framework. As a result, said the company, customers experience fewer disruptions, faster outcomes and networks that operate at the speed of the business.</p> <p>Part of the Extreme Platform ONE system, Agent ONE is seen by Extreme as an entire new generation of AI that the company needed to release. The AI stack had four levels: an AI infrastructure layer, AI core, a skills layer and agentic layer. These would respectively provide reasoning, contest, procedure and execution, with a harness on top of the agentic layer to provide governance and adhere to businesses’’ own rules.</p> <p>Bukhari said: “This is the stack, the four layers that work together. The infrastructure layer provides reasoning, the AI core provides context, skill layers provides the SOPs and the procedures, and then the agentic layer builds the execution on top of it. It’s complicated, but this is the stack that delivers outcomes through the AI.”</p> <p>The initial part of the launch will be the introduction of Agent ONE Coworker in July 2026. <a href="https://www.extremenetworks.com/extremeconnect/pr/extreme-introduces-new-operating-model-for-enterprise-networking-with-extreme-agent-one">Agent ONE Coworker</a> is essentially an AI agent designed to work alongside IT teams and deliver proactive, context-aware intelligence with real-time decision-making and automated execution at machine speed.</p> <p>Unlike traditional AI tools that wait for prompts, Agent ONE Coworker is attributed with being able to provide insights and guide decisions within the workflow. The company said that it had the core qualities of being ambient – it’s already done the work, proactive in that it does not wait for input, and is helpful – it understands and can do more.</p> <p>Agent ONE Coworker is attributed with delivering conversational access to network data, documentation and security insights; automated support workflows from case creation through resolution; on-demand, real-time dashboards built from live data; and AI-driven Wi-Fi optimisation through conversational control.</p> <p>With access through a single conversational interface, the module continuously monitors network activity, investigates anomalies and is designed to act in a way that it can reduce resolution times, minimise manual effort and prevent issues before they affect users.</p> <p>A key feature of the platform is a “nudge” capability said to be able to deliver timely, contextual recommendations that turn insight into immediate action. Bukhari told the conference that in the first generation of Extreme AI networking tool, there was an AI expert management tool but it needed to be prompted, but that has now changed.</p> <p>“In the second generation, we wanted to be the other way around, where you don’t have to go find the AI,” said Bukhari. “The AI finds you and prompts you. The second thing that we wanted to do was for it to be helpful ... and whenever it feels that it needs to talk to you, it prompts you. This is a relationship, so we wanted it to feel like a relationship. We wanted Agent ONE Coworker, to have a personality – to reach out [and] talk to you. So, we gave it a personality and we gave it a way to reach out.”</p> <p>Extreme saw a potential key use case for Agent ONE Coworker in detecting <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366637542/Wireless-Broadband-Alliance-looks-to-boost-enterprise-private-5G-security">rising Wi-Fi congestion</a> and recommending or automatically applying a fix or identifying recurring point of sale (POS) slowdowns in retail to suggest traffic prioritisation during peak hours, turning patterns into immediate, low-effort decisions.</p> <p>The next release and second mode of the system later in 2026 will be Agent ONE Operator, an always-on, autonomous agent designed to extend AI beyond real-time interaction to continuous network operation. It is also intended to execute tasks independently in defined governance boundaries, responding to events in real time and running scheduled workflows without requiring constant human input. It will continuously learn from each interaction and outcome, becoming more precise and effective over time.</p> <p>Extreme said this evolution represents a shift from AI that assists in the moment to AI that operates continuously, ensuring networks are always monitored and optimised. Another key development is Extreme Exchange, an AI skills marketplace for Extreme Platform ONE that enables customers to discover, activate and manage skills that extend Agent ONE Operator’s capabilities.</p> <p>It is built to deliver domain-specific intelligence across industries such as healthcare, education, retail and manufacturing, while integrating with IT service management, security, observability and cloud platforms. Built on an open model, it supports first-party and partner-developed skills and is designed to support customer-created skills in the future.</p> <p>Assessing the new AI products and the impact that they may have on the industry, leading analyst Zeus Kerravala, founder of ZK Research, said: “Most vendors are still delivering AI as copilots. Extreme is taking a different path – embedding reasoning, context and execution into the network itself. That’s a meaningful step toward true autonomous infrastructure and a clear signal of where the industry is going.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about AI in networking</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641094/Marvell-scales-up-networking-to-extend-Nvidia-AI-ecosystem">Marvell scales up networking to extend Nvidia AI ecosystem</a>: AI GPU leader sees extension of AI infrastructure through collaboration with infrastructure technology to deliver more choice and flexibility for customers with fully compatible systems.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641242/Cisco-network-readiness-a-determining-factor-for-AI-success">Network readiness a determining factor for AI success</a>: Cisco report reveals how&nbsp;firms are harnessing AI to drive progress and overcome industry challenges, with most expecting ‘significant’ increases in connectivity and reliability demands.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641133/AI-driven-operating-model-key-to-cloud-native-autonomous-networks">AI-driven operating model key to cloud-native, autonomous networks</a>: Operator-driven guidance outlines how mobile network operators can adopt AI-based operating models to enable increasingly autonomous network operations.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366637686/AO-implements-Mist-AI-native-wireless-network">AO implements Mist AI-native wireless network</a>: Retailer’s wireless network looks to enable smarter, faster customer service and business operations to maintain competitive agility in a dynamic market.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Network firm launches ‘smarter, faster, autonomous’ approach to enterprise networking, with its operating model moving from assistive AI to autonomous, always-on operations https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/LeMagIT/hero_article/AI-bot-AdobeStock_909560265.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642566/Extreme-Connect-26-Agent-ONE-takes-forward-network-AI Wed, 06 May 2026 04:09:00 GMT <p>When the numbers coming out of the biggest AI companies get reported, the coverage is almost always the same: revenue up, growth accelerating, the boom is real. What almost nobody asks is what kind of revenue it is. In AI right now, that question is being skipped entirely. It's the only one that matters.</p> <p>Any investor who has sat across from a founder in a pitch meeting knows that headline revenue is just the starting point. The real questions come after: Is this B2B or B2C? Is it contracted or casual? Does the use case suggest land-and-expand potential, or is this customer already at their ceiling? Is the product embedded in something the customer cannot easily stop doing, or is it a nice-to-have competing with shrinking budgets and fading attention? These questions are table stakes at the startup level. They have almost completely vanished from the conversation about the companies now defining the AI landscape.</p> <p>Take <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/feature/What-CIOs-can-learn-from-Anthropics-safety-pullback">Anthropic</a> and <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchitoperations/news/366638800/OpenAI-Frontier-AI-agent-platform-targets-enterprises?">OpenAI</a>. By most coverage, OpenAI is the dominant player - larger revenue, broader adoption, a product that has become genuinely cultural. That may all be true. But when you ask what colour that revenue is, the picture gets more complicated. OpenAI's CFO confirmed that roughly 75% of its revenue comes from consumer subscriptions. <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/ChatGPT-Everything-you-need-to-know">ChatGPT</a> has somewhere in the range of 800 million weekly active users - and only about 5% are paying subscribers. That is an enormous base resting on consumer willingness to pay for something most people still access for free, competing with curiosity, with free alternatives, and with whatever captures attention next. Consumer subscriptions cancel quietly and they cancel fast.</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Anthropic’s revenue is built on integration"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Anthropic’s revenue is built on integration</h2> <p>Anthropic's revenue is smaller. But look at where it comes from. Approximately 80% comes from enterprise customers. Over 500 companies now spend more than $1 million annually on Claude. Eight of the Fortune 10 are customers. Claude Code, a tool embedded directly into developer workflows, went from zero to $2.5 billion in annualized revenue in roughly nine months. The result is a monetization gap that rarely gets discussed: Anthropic generates roughly $211 per monthly user while OpenAI generates roughly $25 per weekly user. That is not a small difference. It reflects what happens when revenue is built on integration rather than attention.</p> <p>When a business has embedded AI into its compliance process, its coding infrastructure, or its data operations, switching is not a casual decision. It is an engineering project, a procurement process, and an organizational headache. That friction is not a bug; it is the entire point. It is what makes a dollar of Anthropic's revenue structurally different from a dollar of consumer subscription revenue, regardless of the size of the number attached to it.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="Lessons from SaaS"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>Lessons from SaaS</h2> <p>This is not a new lesson. The 2022 SaaS correction made it visible at a category level. When pressure hit, it did not hit evenly. Public SaaS multiples fell an average of 67% from their 2021 peak - but within that average, some companies saw multiples fall 90% while infrastructure and security tools largely held. The companies that took the worst hits were not necessarily bad businesses with bad products. They had the wrong colour revenue for a pressure environment. The market treated them as equivalent until the moment it didn't.</p> </section> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="AI will produce extreme divison"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>AI will produce extreme divison</h2> <p>AI will produce a more extreme version of that divergence. Two reasons. First, the hype cycle is larger than anything SaaS produced - the speed of adoption, the scale of investment, and the cultural footprint of these products have created a wider gap between perceived value and embedded value than we have seen before. Second, the consumer-versus-enterprise variance is wider. SaaS was predominantly a business product. AI has gone consumer in a way SaaS never fully did, which means a much larger share of current AI revenue sits in the category most vulnerable to pressure. When that pressure arrives, the disaggregation will be severe and it will not look like a uniform correction. It will look like two completely different industries reporting results in the same earnings cycle.</p> <p>The boom-or-bust framing that dominates AI coverage is the wrong question. Some of this is a boom. Some of it is not. The difference will not show up in total revenue figures until it is too late to be useful information. The question worth asking now is simpler and harder: which revenue survives pressure? That answer depends entirely on use case, contract structure, and how deeply the tool is actually embedded in how people and businesses work. We do not yet have a clean public way to measure it. That is exactly the problem.</p> <p><i>Judah Taub is the founder and managing partner of Hetz Ventures, an Israeli early-stage venture capital firm specializing in cybersecurity, data, and AI infrastructure.</i></p> </section> AI companies are reporting growing revenues but a more important question is not how much are they earning but what kind of revenues? https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/LeMagIT/Robot_DaVinci_AdobeStock_224483572.jpeg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642660/The-AI-Correction-Will-Not-Be-Evenly-Distributed Tue, 05 May 2026 10:18:00 GMT <p><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366619039/Google-drops-pledge-not-to-develop-AI-weapons">Google AI workers</a> in the UK have launched a pioneering unionisation bid to end use of their technology by Israel and the US military.</p> <p>The British-based Google DeepMind employees – who aim to become the <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/resources/Artificial-intelligence-automation-and-robotics">first frontier artificial intelligence (AI) lab</a> worldwide to unionise – sent a letter to management this week to request recognition of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) and Unite the Union as their official representatives. In a vote of CWU members at DeepMind, 98% backed the move.</p> <p>John Chadfield, CWU national officer for tech workers, said: “This is a really important moment where tech workers at Google’s frontier AI lab are connecting with some of the most oppressed people in communities around the world in meaningful ways, based on foundational values of solidarity and trade unionism.</p> <p>“By exercising their rights to collectivise they are in a strong position to demand their employer stop circling the ethical drain of military-industrial contracts, echoing the sentiment of many working people in the UK and elsewhere.”</p> <p>The workers are part of a wider campaign, with <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366636163/Google-DeepMind-partners-with-UK-government-to-deliver-AI">DeepMind</a> staff globally considering in-person protests and “research strikes” – where they abstain from work expected to significantly improve core products such as the Gemini AI assistant.</p> <p>Google employees have previously protested the ethics of contracts such as Project Nimbus, a joint programme with Amazon to make cloud computing and <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366626968/Tech-firms-complicit-in-economy-of-genocide-says-UN-rapporteur">AI tools available to Israel</a> during its campaign in Gaza, which saw upwards of 70,000 dead. Meanwhile, Maven, a US government project from which Google withdrew in 2019 after staff protests, has reportedly been used in targeting in the Iran war.</p> <p>The unionising DeepMind workers are seeking an end to use of Google AI by Israel and the US military. Their demands also include restoring a scrapped commitment not to make AI weapons or surveillance tools, the creation of an independent ethics oversight body, and the individual right to refuse to contribute to projects on moral grounds.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about worker and community protests</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252524426/Google-workers-oppose-cloud-contract-with-Israeli-government">Google workers oppose cloud contract with Israeli government</a>: Google workers and Palestinian rights activists call on company to divest from involvement in cloud and artificial intelligence contract with Israeli government and military, following allegations the tech giant has retaliated against an employee for being publicly critical of the deal.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639449/UK-to-see-weekend-protests-against-dirty-datacentres">UK to see weekend protests against ‘dirty datacentres’</a>: Environmental charity Global Action Plan UK is coordinating a campaign effort to bring attention to wider concerns about datacentre electricity demand, water use and environmental impacts.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>A DeepMind employee said: “We don’t want our AI models complicit in violations of international law, but they already are aiding Israel’s genocide of Palestinians. Even if our work is only used for administrative purposes, as leadership has repeatedly told us, it is still helping make genocide cheaper, faster and more efficient. That must end immediately, as must harm to Iranians and human lives anywhere.”</p> <p>Google recently agreed to let the US Department of Defense use its AI models for classified work, a move opposed by over 600 employees. Google staff worry how the technology will be used given the deal could reportedly open the door to autonomous weapons and mass surveillance of US citizens, red-line issues that previously saw the Pentagon impose restrictions on competitor Anthropic.</p> <p>The unionisation bid aims to gain representation for at least 1,000 staff tied to Google DeepMind’s London office. The employees’ letter gave management 10 working days to voluntarily recognise the CWU and Unite, or take other steps such as agreeing to mediated negotiations, before a formal legal process is launched to force recognition. Google DeepMind is headquartered in London, but has about a dozen offices across North America and Europe.</p> <p>“I hope that recourse to the statutory procedure will not prove necessary,” CWU official Chadfield wrote in the letter. “We look forward to working with you in a spirit of co-operation on behalf of the workforce.”</p> <p>The CWU branch for DeepMind staff is United Tech and Allied Workers.</p> Unions send letter to management requesting recognition for Google DeepMind employees, in particular over the company’s involvement in hi-tech systems used in Gaza and Iran wars https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/German/article/revolution-protest-adobe.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642677/Google-AI-workers-vote-to-unionise-over-IDF-and-US-military-tech Tue, 05 May 2026 06:30:00 GMT <p>In a set of results whereby revenues falling on a yearly basis were offset by a third consecutive quarter of improved momentum in customer net additions, Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) has announced a mixed set of results in its first quarter of the 2026 financial year.</p> <p>According to <a href="https://www.virginmediao2.co.uk/">VMO2</a> CEO Lutz Schüler, 2026 is all about the leading UK communications operator navigating a turbulent market landscape while investing, where the conditions are right, to maximise opportunities, “future-proof” its networks and “lay the foundations to build long-term customer trust, profitability and cash generation”.</p> <p>The CEO regarded the firm’s <a href="https://news.virginmediao2.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Virgin-Media-O2-Q1-2026-Earnings-Release.pdf">performance for the three-month period ended 31 March 2026</a> as in line with its full-year guidance. Total service revenue for the quarter was £2.08bn representing a 3.0% year-on-year (YoY) decrease, adjusted for the transaction related to the <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366628283/O2-Daisy-opens-for-business">O2 Daisy mobile business line</a>. Also adjusted on this basis, total revenue decreased 6.5% annually to £2.390bn.</p> <p>VMO2 attributed this movement to consumer revenue decreasing by 3.8% compared with the first quarter of fiscal 2025, with a 3.9% fall in consumer fixed service revenue and a 3.7% reduction in consumer mobile service revenue. The company said this primarily reflected the impact of prior-year customer reductions, and ongoing competitive pressure in the consumer fixed market, which continued to weigh on ARPU.</p> <p>Business revenue decreased by 5.1% YoY, driven by a 9.9% tumble in business service revenue. The latter reduction was primarily driven by lower margin products, as the company begins the planned streamlining of the B2B product portfolio.</p> <p>By contrast, the company’s Wholesale revenue increased by 5.1%, said to be supported by a 12.7% increase in wholesale service revenue, with growth in MVNO revenue and an increase in long-term leases of the fixed network. In addition, approximately £15.4m &nbsp;of fixed pre-enablement and installation income improved wholesale service revenue, as the company targets scaling and expanding wholesale fixed services.</p> <p>Looking at the VMO2 customer numbers, the results showed that the firm’s total consumer fixed customer base stood at 5.5 million with a Q1 2026 customer reduction of around 7,000 people – representing a circa 38,000 improvement compared with losses in Q1 2025.</p> <p>Total mobile connections across the O2 network – including O2, <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252493587/giffgaff-goes-AWS-to-drive-operational-transformation">giffgaff</a>, <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642430/UK-businesses-being-held-back-by-growing-complexity-trap">O2 Business</a>, IOT and MVNOs such as Sky and Tesco Mobile – stood at 46.4 million by 31 March 2026. Consumer mobile contract connections totalled 12.5 million, a reduction of approximately 38,000 connections in Q1. The company noted that significantly reduced churn compared with Q4 2015 supported improved momentum with ARPU broadly stable. The wholesale contract connections base increased by around 300,000 vs Q1 2025, reinforcing said VMO2, a strong position in the mobile wholesale market.</p> <p>Outlining highlights for the quarter, VMO2 pointed to ongoing investment in fibre and 5G mobile, with that £500m invested in the quarter, claimed to now have the UK’s largest <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640826/Virgin-Media-O2-accelerates-UK-5G-upgrade-programme">5G Standalone network</a> now available to 86% of the country’s outdoor population. There was a total of 18.8 million UK fixed-line premises serviceable, all with access to speeds of at least 1Gbps. VMO2 now had a full-fibre footprint of 8.7 million premises – a mix of continued fibre upgrades and the <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366617860/CityFibre-nexfibre-accelerate-roll-out-of-UK-gigabit-project">nexfibre joint venture footprint.</a></p> <p>The quarter also saw <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639343/UK-direct-to-device-satellite-connectivity-takes-off-with-Virgin-Media-O2">the launch of</a> <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639343/UK-direct-to-device-satellite-connectivity-takes-off-with-Virgin-Media-O2">O2 Satellite</a>, which is the first UK mobile network to switch on direct-to-device satellite connectivity, increasing landmass coverage to 95%.</p> <p>Looking ahead to the rest of the year, VMO2 offered 2026 guidance of a total service revenue decline of 3 to 5% YoY, adjusted for the Daisy transaction and adjusted EBITDA decline of 3 to 5% YoY, again taking into consideration for the Daisy transaction. It committed to an investment of £2bn to £2.2bn.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Schüler added: “With a clear customer focus and underpinned by more than half a billion pounds of investment in Q1, we have started the year delivering against our core strategy through the launch of O2 Satellite, a first in Europe.</p> <p>“We’re expanding our 5G Standalone footprint to be the largest in the country, making continued improvements in customer service and satisfaction, and expanding our fibre footprint to almost nine million premises. We’ll continue to remain focused on delivery in all three of our areas – consumer, B2B and wholesale – while transforming for future success.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about VMO2</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640826/Virgin-Media-O2-accelerates-UK-5G-upgrade-programme">Virgin Media O2 accelerates UK 5G upgrade programme</a>: UK operator inks multi-year agreements with strategic essential equipment partners to upgrade radio access network to next-generation 5G technology, boosting capacity, coverage and reliability.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366638763/Virgin-Media-O2-accelerates-automation-across-mobile-network">Virgin Media O2 accelerates automation across mobile network</a>: UK telco teams with cloud-first tech modernisation firm to deploy AI-driven automation technology to minimise downtime across mobile network, resolve issues faster and anticipating faults before escalation.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366636658/Virgin-Media-O2-reveals-record-breaking-year-of-UK-data-use">Virgin Media O2 reveals record-breaking year of UK data use</a>: UK operator releases data exploring how British people lived online in 2025, finding record-levels of data consumption including a rise in both broadband usage and mobile traffic.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366633921/IONX-Virgin-Media-O2-claim-UK-5G-standalone-first">Ionx, Virgin Media O2 claim UK 5G standalone first</a>: Neutral host small cell platform integrates offer with live 5G SA network to show how neutral host models are not just viable, but essential to delivering high-performance 5G where customers actually need it.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Leading UK comms operator VMO2 says financial performance for the first three months of 2026 lays foundations for full fiscal year, with targeted network investments across expanding coverage area https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/HeroImages/Virgin-Media-O2-5G-mobile-user-PR-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642559/First-quarter-revenues-fall-but-VMO2-sees-brighter-prospects-for-fiscal-year Fri, 01 May 2026 10:53:00 GMT <p>As traffic patterns evolve and artificial intelligence (AI) workloads demand more distributed infrastructure, and looking to boost the third largest Internet Exchange (IX) on the American continent, operator DE-CIX has completed a major upgrade to its New York metro platform to a quad-node network architecture, with two core nodes in New York City and two in New Jersey.</p> <p>Founded in 1995, <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366630025/DE-CIX-India-adds-Starlink-to-interconnection-ecosystem">DE-CIX</a> offers interconnection services in 60 locations in Europe, Africa, North and South America, the Middle East and Asia. Accessible from datacentres in more than 600 cities worldwide, it connects network operators (carriers), internet service providers (ISPs), content providers and enterprise networks from more than 100 countries, and offers peering, cloud and other interconnection services.</p> <p>The youngest IX in North America’s top five, <a href="https://www.de-cix.net/en/locations/new-york">DE-CIX New York</a> is leading &nbsp;largest Internet Exchange in the US and the number one in the Northeast, as well as the largest neutral IX on the Eastern seaboard. It is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.oix.org/" rel="noopener">OIX-1 certified&nbsp;</a>and carrier and datacentre-neutral. OIX is a nonprofit that develops open standards and decision-making frameworks to help operators, policymakers and investors make smarter choices about digital infrastructure.</p> <p>When DE-CIX first entered the New York market more than a decade ago, a total of only 20 datacentre facilities were being served by IXs across the entire metro. DE-CIX’s datacentre and carrier ambition to serve the market with neutrality is said to have resulted in a doubling of the number of facilities integrated into the city’s interconnection fabric, offering more opportunities to connect. This includes DE-CIX’s coverage into Long Island, Brooklyn and now six locations in New Jersey – something that the provider assures will reinforce the metro as a truly bi-state interconnection ecosystem rather than a single-city hub.</p> <p>The New York City facility operates more access points than any other IX in North America and now supports more than 260 connected networks. It is claimed to be around 30% larger by connected networks than the next largest IX in the region, following what DE-CIX said is more than a decade of continuous presence and development in the market.</p> <p>As traffic shifts toward higher-capacity services, DE-CIX New York has upgraded its platform to support growing demand for 400 Gigabit Ethernet (400 GE) ports. The rise of <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641094/Marvell-scales-up-networking-to-extend-Nvidia-AI-ecosystem">GPU-intensive and AI-driven workloads,</a> alongside content distribution and large-scale cloud connectivity, is accelerating the need for higher throughput and lower latency interconnection.</p> <p>As part of the modernisation programme, DE-CIX has also implemented reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer (ROADM)-based smart switching technology within the metro network. This is intended to enable network paths to be adjusted via software, allowing traffic to be added, dropped or redirected remotely without requiring physical intervention. The result is said to be faster provisioning, improved operational agility and enhanced resilience in a region that cannot afford downtime.</p> <p>Explaining the reasons for its upgrade, DE-CIX noted that rather than focusing on dealing with short-term growth spikes, recent investments have centred on strengthening resilience and long-term value for customers operating in one of the most mature and competitive interconnection environments in North America. The design, said DE-CIX, will deliver higher redundancy, greater resilience and enable “true” A/B connectivity strategies across the Hudson River.</p> <p>The upgraded architecture is also said to reflect the growing importance of New Jersey as a natural extension of the New York metro’s digital infrastructure. By operating 2-node cores on each side of the Hudson, DE-CIX believes that its customers will be able to build geographically separated yet tightly integrated interconnection strategies.</p> <p>Such qualities are said to be able to support enterprises, carriers, cloud providers and AI-driven platforms seeking greater operational control, improved business continuity and infrastructure diversity.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about internet exchanges</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639101/Linx-upgrades-Lunar-Digital-datacentre-to-full-resilient-point-of-presence">Linx upgrades Lunar Digital datacentre to full resilient point of presence</a>: Manchester-based datacentre upgrading its network resilience with London Internet Exchange to support network traffic.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640654/Nokia-joins-LINX-as-technical-partner-for-London-network-refresh">Nokia joins Linx as technical partner for London network refresh</a>: Internet exchange based in UK capital completes project refreshing its 17-site interconnected network in London, with global comms tech provider selected as the technical partner to support development.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366620699/YouFibre-takes-400G-connectivity-option-at-Manchester-internet-exchange">YouFibre takes 400G connectivity option at Manchester internet exchange</a>: Independent full-fibre broadband provider becomes first ISP to take a 400G port at the London Internet Exchange’s regional interconnection hub in Manchester.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366618417/e-DE-CIX-create-Middle-East-SmartHub-internet-exchange">E&amp; creates Middle East SmartHub internet exchange</a>: Middle East telco partners with internet exchange operator to boost regional datacentre connectivity, with Fujairah hosting largest submarine cable landing station and new locations for Dubai.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Quad-node architecture across New York and New Jersey, expanded metro access and 400GE readiness designed to strengthen resilience in the US’s most demanding interconnection market https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/New-york-manhattan-skyline-fotolia.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642527/DE-CIX-expands-New-York-metro-connectivity-with-architecture-upgrades Fri, 01 May 2026 08:00:00 GMT <p>Telxius has enhanced its content delivery network (CDN) to give content providers the ability to dynamically switch between CDNs in real time.</p> <p>With strategic global points of presence, <a href="https://telxius.com/en/inicio-en/">Telxius’s carrier-grade CDN</a> is directly integrated into its Tier 1 IP high-capacity backbone and submarine cable systems, providing what is claimed to be high performance, reliability and security.</p> <p>This integration is attributed with enabling full end-to-end control of traffic delivery, allowing for rapid infrastructure scaling and ensuring cost-efficiency across the entire CDN deployment. Additionally, Telxius is an IP transit provider for ISPs that reach millions of users worldwide.</p> <p>The global connectivity provider is aiming to achieve its video service objectives through integrating <a href="https://www.synamedia.com/">Synamedia’s</a> multi-CDN management platform to enable content providers to adopt a flexible, scalable, multi-CDN strategy. The net result is said to be that providers can improve streaming quality, resilience and cost-efficiency while extending their reach to millions of viewers worldwide through a more agile, scalable content network.</p> <p>Synamendia says that with its Quortex Switch multi-CDN management platform, content providers can use content steering to “seamlessly switch viewers between CDNs based on quality of experience (QoE) and cost, expanding their coverage to reach and target new audiences.</p> <p>Launched in March 2025, Quortex Switch is a software as a service-based tool intended to simplify the design and management of multi-CDN systems supporting high-quality streaming and providing disaster recovery. Based on the content steering industry standards, it seeks to eliminate traditional client dependencies, resulting in instant deployment without modifying any players or apps.</p> <p>Compared with other CDNs that are selectors tied to static rules or software development kit) integrations, Quortex Switch dynamically optimises traffic based on real-time QoE, network conditions and cost. It delivers mid-stream switching for what are assured to be uninterrupted viewing experiences, and offers open-standard application programming interfaces for the onboarding of new CDNs.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about networking for media and broadcast</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641772/Cintegral-taps-Taara-connectivity-for-real-time-live-media-production">Cintegral taps Taara connectivity for real-time live media production</a>: Networking service from Google Moonshot allows directors and crew members to digitally collaborate in real time during a shoot using light-based connectivity instead of relying on cable-based infrastructure.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641139/Net-Insight-introduces-programmable-video-production-network">Net Insight introduces programmable video production network</a>: Capability designed to make large-scale IP-based live production infrastructures more predictable and controllable, enabling secure and automated IP interconnection without reverting to SDI gateways.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366573493/BT-Broadpeak-intro-multicast-tech-to-enhance-network-video-streaming">BT, Broadpeak intro multicast tech to enhance network video streaming</a>: UK’s leading network provider teams with content delivery network firm to enhance live video streaming quality and reliability using adaptive bit rate and multicast-assisted unicast delivery technology.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366630816/Orange-Synamedia-join-forces-to-expand-multi-CDN-reach">Orange, Synamedia join forces to expand multi-CDN reach</a>: Video software provider teams with global telco to improve network performance for streaming providers to deliver content more smoothly and reach more viewers, especially in the Middle East and Africa.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>Synamedia claims that such capabilities give companies like Telxius no less than “unmatched” agility, resilience and delivery efficiency at scale. It added that for the industry, this further enables a shift away from static, single-CDN or manually managed multi-CDN models towards a more intelligent, software-driven approach.</p> <p>“Not all CDNs are equal and, in my experience, no single CDN can consistently deliver the best performance, cost efficiency and capacity across every region, every network and every moment in time,” said Robin Oakley, senior director of Edge CDN solutions at Synamedia, speaking to Computer Weekly. “Issues happen, traffic patterns are unpredictable, audience demand shifts rapidly and the cost of delivery – particularly for live and large-scale streaming – continues to increase. Delivery becomes something that can be continuously optimised rather than hard-wired.</p> <p>“What this partnership addresses is the need for real-time control and flexibility, and being able to adapt seamlessly to changing conditions,” he said. “As streaming continues to scale globally and more core national broadcasters transition to streaming, this kind of agility will be essential – not just to maintain quality of experience, but to ensure that delivery remains economically sustainable. We’re enabling content providers to dynamically target and optimise delivery based on live conditions, whether that’s quality of experience, network performance or cost. Crucially, this can be done without complex integrations or changes to existing applications.”</p> <p>Mónica Martínez, Telxius chief marketing officer, added: “Our carrier-grade CDN leverages our extensive global infrastructure to deliver superior performance, reliability and security. Now, with the addition of Quortex Switch, our content provider customers will be able to take their streaming services to the next level, enhancing the QoE for streaming viewers as well as end-to-end control.”</p> Global connectivity provider implements Quortex Switch to boost video streaming experience for customers, reaching millions of viewers worldwide https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/German/article/video-streaming-1-adobe.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642558/Telxius-taps-Synamedia-Quortex-Switch-to-support-multi-CDN-growth Fri, 01 May 2026 07:45:00 GMT <p>Having hit the accelerator of deploying 5G standalone (5G SA) services towards the end of 2025, the UK’s leading operator EE has revealed that it has expanded 5G+ to more than 50 million people across some 61 towns and cities in the UK after embarking on increases in capacity and performance as 5G+ customer usage accelerates.</p> <p><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366610032/EE-ups-UK-wireless-ante-with-5G-standalone-network-Wi-Fi-7-router">EE first introduced its 5G SA network in September 2024</a>, launching in 15 cities across the UK, including Bath, Belfast, Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Hull, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Sheffield.</p> <p>At launch, EE said its 5G SA network had been built to deliver up to 100 times more capacity than 4G connectivity, making it significantly better at handling demands from lots of devices at once.</p> <p>The operator said the upgraded network would offer a smoother, more reliable and more secure mobile connection built for better live streaming, video calling and mobile gaming. In addition, it was attributed with supporting enhanced voice calls in more places, with faster setup times that reduce the delay between dialling a number and the phone starting to ring via voice over 5G (Vo5G) standalone.</p> <p>Some of the most recent towns and cities gaining free 5G+ connectivity from EE include Aberystwyth, Antrim, Bangor, Barnsley, Cheltenham, Chicheste, Cirencester, Dorchester, Erskine, Melton Mowbray, Merthyr Tydfil, Newbury, Preston, Salford and St Austell.</p> <p>The operator said that it has now exceeded its original target to reach 41 million people with 5G+ by spring 2026.</p> <p>“This milestone shows the pace at which we’re building the UK’s most advanced mobile network,” said Greg McCall, chief security and networks officer at BT Group. “By expanding EE’s 5G+ coverage to millions more people and being the first in the world to launch new network technologies, we’re giving our customers more reliable and resilient connectivity in the places where it matters most.”</p> <p>The operator added that the expansion of its 5G+ network has resulted in the 54% increase in monthly customer usage and to ensure customers receive optimal day-to-day experience on 5G+, EE has reallocated its <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366632895/UK-networks-commit-to-pay-39m-to-secure-mmWave-5G-spectrum">2.1GHz (2100MHz) spectrum</a> across more than 4,000 mobile sites to deliver greater network capacity, stronge<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642095/Freshwave-claims-next-evolution-of-5G-indoor-mobile">r indoor coverage</a> and improved upload speeds for 5G+ customers. This is seen as being particularly beneficial in built-up areas where demand is highest. EE plans to upgrade 5,000 more mobile sites in this way in the next few months.</p> <p>EE also claimed that its 5G+ customers are also enjoying considerably faster download speeds after it established the UK’s first network to launch five carrier aggregation on its 5G+ enabled mobile sites. This is designed to allow <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366627944/EE-5G-standalone-network-ready-to-scale-for-mass-usage">compatible 5G+ smartphones</a> and devices to combine the power of five spectrum bands at once. The company said this has resulted 10% faster download speeds on average and improved performance when streaming video.</p> <p>As it was announcing its 5G+ expansion, EE revealed further progress on the roll-out of <a title="https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/Ad8SCNkE8qi9wz2VVc8IlTyORF-?domain=urldefense.com" href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366630594/EE-claims-5G-world-first-with-advanced-RAN-coordination">Advanced RAN Coordination (ARC)</a> technology to enable mobile sites close to each other to dynamically share capacity in real time. EE stated that it is the first network in the world – and the only in the UK – to deploy ARC technology operator, saying it has instantly boosted network performance by 20% without the need for additional masts.</p> <p>ARC technology is seen as particularly beneficial in business use cases in busy locations such as train stations, high streets and city centres. Following the launch of the technology in Manchester and Edinburgh in 2025, ARC is now also live on EE’s 5G+ network in London. By the end of May 2026, it will be available in more of the UK’s busiest cities including Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle and Sheffield.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about 5G+/5G Standalone</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639259/Global-5G-standalone-dynamic-shifts-from-coverage-to-capability">Global 5G standalone dynamic shifts from coverage to capability</a>: Annual study of 5G SA market reveals coverage gap between major economic blocs narrowing by the end of 2025, but with growing signs of more consequential signs of divergent spectrum strategies, investment depth and network optimisation.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366634853/EE-claims-5G-standalone-coverage-leadership">EE claims 5G standalone coverage leadership</a>: UK’s leading mobile provider reveals latest phase of its 5G standalone roll-out, confirming more than half a million customers have now been upgraded to what it markets as 5G+ at no extra cost.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366634793/5G-Standalone-growth-spurs-differentiated-connectivity-services">5G Standalone growth spurs differentiated connectivity services</a>: Mobility Report shows 33 CSPs currently offer differentiated connectivity services based on network slicing, with a combined total of 65 offerings with around 1.4 billion people expected to be served by fixed wireless access.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366633921/IONX-Virgin-Media-O2-claim-UK-5G-standalone-first">Ionx, Virgin Media O2 claim UK 5G standalone first</a>: Neutral host small cell platform integrates offer with live 5G SA network to show how neutral host models are not just viable, but essential to delivering high-performance 5G where customers actually need it.</li> </ul> </div> </div> UK’s leading mobile provider announces set of 5G+ network upgrades as it continues coverage roll-out while embarking on plan to improve overall performance at scale https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/Ericsson-5G-Core-Standalone-Vodafone-Spain-CREDIT-Ericsson-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642345/EE-evolves-5G-strategy-after-major-usage-surge Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:41:00 GMT <p>As businesses of all sizes and locations find themselves increasingly needing to extend artificial intelligence (AI) and mission-critical workloads to highly distributed and harsh environments, HPE has expanded its ProLiant edge portfolio to address these needs and deliver workload durability under real-world conditions including severe environments.</p> <p>HPE said organisations are currently pushing towards the <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640522/HPE-taps-Nvidia-to-transform-distributed-AI-factories-into-intelligent-AI-grid">edge for AI inferencing</a> and remote operations, where traditional IT structures are impractical for many industries. Specifically, it noted that edge environments are often widely distributed, lightly staffed and physically exposed.</p> <p>To this end, the <a href="https://www.hpe.com/uk/en/compute/hpe-proliant-compute.html">HPE ProLiant Compute EL2000</a> chassis, the foundation for two new Gen12 servers, and the enhanced <a href="https://www.hpe.com/nl/en/compute/hpe-proliant-compute/dl145-gen11.html">HPE ProLiant DL145</a> Gen11 are part of a portfolio of resilient and secure services engineered for edge deployments, complex environments and disconnected operations. Each platform is now available with an Environmental Ruggedisation Option Kit ideal for harsh locations, including high or low altitudes, extreme temperatures, and hazardous transit.</p> <p>The HPE ProLiant Compute EL2000 chassis is said to be purpose-built for some of the most rugged and size-, weight- and power-constrained environments that see use in national security, manufacturing, retail and telecommunications. The platform is based on Intel Xeon 6 processors – described as “ideal” for demanding edge environments. Supporting up to two HPE ProLiant Compute EL220 Gen12 servers or one EL240 Gen12 server, the chassis is said to help deliver rugged performance and modular flexibility.</p> <p>Available only with the HPE ProLiant Compute EL2000, the servers feature scalability from 8 up to 144 Intel Xeon 6 cores; support for space-saving central processing unit Thermal Design Power up to 350 watts to achieve higher performance; reliable operation in extreme temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees Celsius, as well as up to 95% humidity; and durability in environments with heavy vibration from aircraft or ground vehicles, environmental contaminants and electromagnetic interference.</p> <p>The range is also available with Nvidia RTX Pro 4500 or Nvidia RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell Server Edition graphics processing units (GPUs), the latter only on EL240 Gen12 servers. Additionally, there is support for Nvidia AI Enterprise, with government-ready software to meet “rigorous” security standards and high-assurance environments.</p> <p>HPE is also introducing an enhanced version of the HPE ProLiant DL145 Gen11 server, now powered by the upcoming AMD EPYC 8005 series processors – with the working brand name Sorano – which is designed to support distributed and harsh telco environments. The compact 2U system delivers up to 84 cores, and is said to be appropriate for “quiet” deployments from industries such as manufacturing and retail.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about edge networks</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchitoperations/news/366641741/Edge-and-physical-AI-poised-to-upend-enterprise-networks">Edge and physical AI poised to upend enterprise networks</a>: Just as the enterprise is wrapping its mind around scaling AI in datacentres, another seismic shift is emerging on the outskirts of corporate networks.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366633115/TMobile-unveils-Edge-Control-T-Platform-business-networks">T‑Mobile unveils Edge Control, T-Platform business networks</a>: 5G Advanced network to support networks designed to cut latency, costs and security risk, controlled by ‘first-of-its-kind’ unified management platform for business solutions.</li> <li><a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/tip/How-an-edge-networking-strategy-optimizes-AI-workloads">How an edge networking strategy optimises AI workloads</a>: Edge networking prioritises managing data at the network edge. This network architecture reduces latency, enhances operational efficiency and enables real-time AI processing.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639110/Telefonica-activates-commercial-Edge-services-in-Spain">Telefónica activates commercial Edge services in Spain</a>: As part of its Edge Plan in Europe, Spain-based global telco begins marketing business-to-business services in five of the 17 nodes planned for this year supported by FTTH, 5G network and Open Gateway APIs.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>It is also engineered to operate in extreme temperatures – up to 55 degrees Celsius. A version of the HPE ProLiant DL145 Gen11 server was validated as the only purpose-built server for <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366633732/NVIDIA-Nokia-pioneer-AI-platform-for-6G-comms">edge AI inferencing</a>, based on Nvidia RTX Pro 4500 Blackwell Server Edition GPU, in the latest <a href="https://community.hpe.com/t5/ai-unlocked/hpe-secures-18-top-rankings-in-mlperf-inference-v6-0-ai/ba-p/7264016">MLPerf Inference v6.0 results</a>.</p> <p>The HPE ProLiant DL145 Gen11 Premier Solution for Azure Local is also available for customers deploying Azure services to edge sites, and is designed to support Azure Local Disconnected Operations.&nbsp;</p> <p>The net result, said HPE, was that its machines could meet mission-critical and ruggedised edge standards. The edge compute portfolio now meets extreme environmental standards, and can be used in harsh and remote locations for high-consequence deployments where failure could lead to disruptive results.</p> <p>Moreover, the edge platforms offer ruggedisation that adheres to widely recognised industry standards including US national security standards that validate a server’s survivability against real-world stresses such as extreme temperatures and high or low altitudes, with an HPE Environmental Ruggedisation Option Kit that enables systems to meet these requirements across vibration and shock conditions.</p> <p>There is also adherence to specifications to national security standards that test a system for electromagnetic interference protection and ensure reliable operation. The range also meets telecom network equipment standards that support 5G core and radio access network infrastructure designed for five-nines (99.999%) availability in unattended environments.</p> <p>Krista Satterthwaite, senior vice-president and general manager of Compute at HPE, said. “HPE ProLiant is engineered with enterprise-grade security, right-sized performance, and a unified approach to managing and automating operations, enabling organisations to easily deploy, manage and scale edge environments with confidence. With these next-generation platforms, customers can address the complexities of edge computing more efficiently and with ruggedised performance.”</p> <p>The HPE ProLiant DL145 Gen11 Server Premier Solution for Azure Local will be available in May, while the HPE ProLiant Compute EL2000 chassis and HPE ProLiant Compute EL220 and EL240 Gen12 servers will be available later in 2026. The enhanced HPE ProLiant DL145 Gen11 and the Environmental Ruggedisation Option Kit are available immediately.</p> Chassis and servers are optimised for the edge, and validated for harsh and remote environments across retail, manufacturing and national security-related deployments https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/HPE-HOUSTON-CAMPUS-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642633/HPE-expands-ProLiant-edge-network-portfolio Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:30:00 GMT <p>Meta is continuing to invest aggressively to meet its <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366628070/Meta-prepares-for-gigawatt-datacentres-to-power-superintelligence">technology infrastructure requirements</a>, involving datacentre expansion and supply chain deals to secure components for future capacity. The company’s latest quarterly earnings filing shows Meta has embarked on a strategy to sign up for multi-year cloud contracts driving $107bn in contractual commitments for Q1 2026.</p> <p>For the quarter that ended in March 2026, Meta posted revenue of $56.3bn, a 33% increase from the same quarter in 2025.</p> <p>The company has forecast that its capital expenditures, including principal payments on finance leases, has increased by $10bn due to <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366637952/Metas-latest-results-show-diversification-of-datacentre-capacity-strategy">component price increases</a> and additional datacentre costs, putting CapEx in the range of $125bn to $145bn.</p> <p>Chief financial officer Susan Li said: “Our investments will support our training needs for future models, and most importantly, provide us with the inference capacity necessary to deliver personal and business agents to billions of people around the world, along with several other AI product experiences we’re developing.”</p> <p>Responding to a question during the earnings call about balancing model training versus product launches and the potential impact on Meta’s 2027 capital expenditure, CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company is moving towards greater capabilities and scaling of AI models. “We have the research team, which is focused on scaling increasingly intelligent models with capabilities for the specific things that we’re focused on, which are business and personal agents,” he said.</p> <p>Beyond model development, Zuckerberg said: “We have our next set of more advanced models in training now. And that work will continue. I don’t think we’re going to be done with that anytime soon.”</p> <p>He emphasised the significance of Meta AI models in product development. “The product team is really unlocked to be able to build things on top of our models because we now have a very strong model,” said Zuckerberg.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more stories about Meta</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640518/US-lawmakers-quiz-Meta-over-dangerous-facial-recognition-plans-for-smart-glasses">US lawmakers quiz Meta</a> over ‘dangerous’ facial recognition plans for smart glasses: Democratic senators warn that Meta’s plans to introduce facial recognition technology into smart glasses could lead to normalisation of mass surveillance and breach citizens’ rights.</li> <li>What CIOs need to know about <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/searchcio/feature/What-CIOs-need-to-know-about-Metas-proposed-CEO-AI-agent">Meta's proposed CEO AI agent</a>: Meta’s CEO AI agent prototype marks the rise of executive-level autonomous AI, opening governance, accountability, data access and compliance gaps CIOs must proactively address.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>When Li was asked how the company uses large language models in its ad business to direct adverts to users, she said: “The size and complexity would make them too cost-prohibitive.”</p> <p>Instead, Li said the way Meta uses <a href="https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/large-language-model-LLM">large language models</a> is to transfer knowledge to smaller, more lightweight models. “The inference models are bound by strict latency requirements since they need to find the right ad within milliseconds, and that has, again, historically prevented us from meaningfully sizing up – to scale up their size and complexity,” she added.</p> <p>Li said Meta plans to tackle this scaling issue with the introduction of an adaptive ranking model later this year, using the model complexity of a trillion parameters. “We made advances in the model architecture and co-design the system with the underlying silicon, so it maintains the sub-second speed that is required to serve ads at scale,” she added.</p> <p>Commenting on Meta’s strategy, Forrester vice-president research director Mike Proulx said: “Meta’s future‑facing AI ambitions are being underwritten almost entirely by the company’s legacy business: advertising inside social media apps. There’s no material AI revenue yet.</p> <p>“The question is whether Meta’s core can continue to act as a cash cow while the company reduces headcount and diverts focus toward AI,” he said. “If Meta’s ad engine slows, the market’s margin for patience shrinks fast. Meta’s slight dip in daily active users is already beginning to raise eyebrows. Q2 will tell us if it’s really just a blip or the start of a trend.”</p> The owner of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram needs to monetise its AI research and development. Expect breakthroughs later this year, it says https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/LLM-language-models-adobe.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642489/Meta-ramps-up-AI-spend-as-it-pushes-advanced-models Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:45:00 GMT <p><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/resources/Cloud-computing-services">Cloud service provider</a> revenues worldwide for the first quarter of 2026 were up by $35bn year-on-year (YoY) and reached $129bn, according to data from US-based datacentre and cloud market analysts <a href="https://www.srgresearch.com/">Synergy Research Group</a>, which takes into account the hyperscalers – Amazon Webs Services (AWS), Google Cloud and Microsoft – plus tier two providers that include artificial intelligence (AI-)focused neoclouds, as well as more general cloud providers.</p> <p>The market is accelerating quickly – possibly <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366638605/Gartner-AI-and-datacentre-spending-ramps">driven by AI deployments</a> – when comparing run rate with actual trailing 12-month revenues. Q1 2026 was the ninth successive quarter in which YoY growth increased, attaining 35%.</p> <p>According to the Synergy data, cloud service revenues have hit their highest growth rate since the fourth quarter of 2021, when the market was 40% of its current size. That swelling of revenues could be down to AI driving major changes in the cloud market.</p> <p><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Breaking-the-stranglehold-Responses-to-data-sovereignty-risk">The hyperscalers maintain a strong lead</a> in the market, with Amazon in top position – however, Microsoft and Google achieved substantially higher growth rates, with their Q1 worldwide market shares 28%, 21% and 14% respectively.&nbsp;</p> <p>Among tier two cloud providers, those with the highest growth rates include CoreWeave, OpenAI, Oracle, Crusoe, Nebius, Anthropic and ByteDance. Based on cloud infrastructure service revenues, five <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/feature/Weighing-up-the-enterprise-risks-of-neocloud-providers">neocloud companies</a> are now among the top 30 cloud providers.</p> <p>Synergy estimates that – with the majority of major cloud providers having now released earnings data for Q1 – quarterly cloud infrastructure service revenues were $128.6bn, with trailing 12-month revenues reaching $455bn. Those include IaaS, PaaS and hosted private cloud services.</p> <figure class="main-article-image full-col" data-img-fullsize="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/SynergyResearchGroup-Q1-rev-GrowthRate.png"> <img data-src="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/SynergyResearchGroup-Q1-rev-GrowthRate_mobile.png" class="lazy" data-srcset="https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/SynergyResearchGroup-Q1-rev-GrowthRate_mobile.png 960w,https://www.computerweekly.com/rms/computerweekly/SynergyResearchGroup-Q1-rev-GrowthRate.png 1280w" alt="Graph entitled 'Cloud infrastructure services market growth', showing cloud revenue ($ billion) with year-on-year growth rate, tracked against financial quarters from 2020 to 2026. The growth rate shows gradual growth since Q3 2023. " data-credit="Synergy Research Group" height="419" width="559"> <div class="main-article-image-enlarge"> <i class="icon" data-icon="w"></i> </div> </figure> <p>With historical – i.e. trailing 12-month revenues of $455bn – and a run rate of $514.4bn calculated from this year’s Q1, the $59.4bn difference shows how quickly the market is accelerating, equating to an acceleration delta of 13%.</p> <p>“The Q1 market is now fifteen times larger than it was a decade ago and continues to expand at 35% annually,” said John Dinsdale, chief analyst at Synergy Research Group. “Reaching a half-trillion-dollar run rate underscores the far-reaching impact of cloud computing and AI on the IT landscape.</p> <p>“Our forecasts point to sustained strong growth in the years ahead, with AI continuing to drive usage, unlock new use cases and boost cloud provider revenues. At the same time, the competitive landscape is evolving, with neoclouds playing an increasingly significant role and already accounting for 5% of the total cloud market and a substantially larger share of AI-focused segments.”</p> <section class="section main-article-chapter" data-menu-title="US fastest growing region"> <h2 class="section-title"><i class="icon" data-icon="1"></i>US fastest growing region</h2> <p>Public IaaS and PaaS services account for the bulk of the market, according to Synergy, and those grew by 38% in Q1. The leadership of the major cloud providers is even more pronounced in public cloud, where the top three account for 67% of the market.&nbsp;</p> <p>Geographically, the cloud market continues to grow strongly in all regions of the world. When measured in local currencies, the major countries with the strongest growth included India, Indonesia, Ireland, Taiwan, Thailand and Malaysia, where growth rates were all well above the worldwide average.&nbsp;</p> <p>The US remains by far the largest cloud market, with its scale far surpassing the whole APAC region. The US market grew by 37% in Q1. In Europe, the largest cloud markets are the UK and Germany, but the markets with the highest growth rates were Ireland, Norway and Poland.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about the cloud market</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366636876/Global-cloud-infrastructure-spending-hits-1026bn-in-Q3-2025">Global cloud infrastructure spending hits $102.6bn in Q3 2025</a>. The cloud infrastructure market grew 25% year on year, driven by enterprises moving from AI experimentation to scaled deployment, according to research from Omdia.&nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/opinion/Why-the-CMA-must-act-now-on-cloud-before-the-UK-loses-its-digital-future">Why the CMA must act now on cloud before the UK loses its digital future</a>. The UK competition watchdog is prevaricating over tackling the dominance of AWS and Microsoft in the cloud market – it needs to enforce change soon or UK businesses will suffer.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </section> Synergy Research figures put Q1 cloud revenues at $129bn. Meanwhile, AWS, Microsoft and Google have 63% of the world market, which shows an acceleration delta of 13% https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/performance-fotolia.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642488/Cloud-revenues-up-35-YoY-in-a-hot-market-thats-accelerating Thu, 30 Apr 2026 06:20:00 GMT <p>US mobile operator T-Mobile is claiming to be redefining business broadband with its <a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/business/business-internet/superbroadband">SuperBroadband</a> product, in collaboration with satellite leader Starlink.</p> <p>The mobile operator said that to date, businesses have had to deal with inconsistent reliability, limited coverage and too much complexity.</p> <p>It stressed that reliability in communications isn’t optional for businesses – it’s mission-critical, and cited research from <a href="https://www.idc.com/">IDC</a> calculating that even minutes of downtime can carry a steep price, with losses averaging more than $100,000 per hour across industries.</p> <p>To protect against this, T-Mobile said many organisations have been forced to add a second ISP for redundancy, but that only works if a second provider is available.</p> <p>In particular, it observed that businesses in remote and rural areas are often underserved by legacy ISPs operating as regional monopolies, leaving gaps where entire areas are beyond the reach of traditional or wired providers.</p> <p>For organisations with multiple locations, T-Mobile warned that finding and managing primary and backup providers introduces a lot of complexity. It said one study found that enterprise businesses could have more than 20 different ISPs servicing their locations.</p> <p>The net result, said the operator, was that for far too long, such businesses have been burdened with stitching together regional and local internet providers, incompatible hardware, and disparate management tools from multiple suppliers – each with separate contracts, rate plans and support models. This, it said, was a logistical nightmare for all firms, but for small and medium-sized businesses without the time or IT capacity to manage this complexity, it meant reliable connectivity felt out of reach.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about space-based communications</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641709/Amazon-acquires-Globalstar-to-expand-satellite-comms-business">Amazon acquires Globalstar to expand satellite comms business</a>: Strategic purchase to see satellites, radio frequency spectrum and operational expertise to enable existing Leo business to add direct-to-device services to future</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641666/SES-gains-altitude-for-in-flight-connectivity-with-Boeing-Japan-Airlines">SES gains altitude for in-flight connectivity with Boeing, Japan Airlines</a>: Satellite operator claims milestone towards line-fit offer for multi-orbit connectivity, with streamlined factory installation on Boeing craft and deal with Japanese carrier.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641696/Sateliot-launches-100m-series-C-financing-round">Sateliot launches €100m series C financing round</a>: Barcelona-based satellite operator announces investment that will see use in financing deployment of constellation and starts selection process for a lead investor in new round expected to close in summer.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640878/Delta-in-flight-connectivity-takes-off-with-Amazon-Leo">Delta in-flight connectivity takes off with Amazon Leo</a>: Global airline looks to satellite provider to introduce connectivity on hundreds of aircraft, starting with an initial installation on 500 aircraft in 2028, working to expand its Wi‑Fi and seatback experiences.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>The operator heralded SuperBroadband as the solution to these issues, no less than “rewriting” the rules of connectivity, “shattering conventions that have long defined business internet”.</p> <p>“With SuperBroadband, we’re not just improving broadband – we’re redefining it,” claimed André Almeida, president of growth and emerging businesses at T-Mobile. “This is about taking the complexity out of connectivity and replacing it with virtually unbreakable connectivity to inspire confidence, so businesses of any size can focus on outcomes, not obstacles.”</p> <p>Combining what is claimed to be the US’s <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366623050/T-Mobile-rolls-out-5G-Advanced-across-US">largest 5G network</a>&nbsp;with Starlink, the owner of the world’s <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640784/Starlink-reshapes-satellite-communications-as-industry-enters-terabit-era">largest low-Earth orbit satellite fleet</a> – the service is said to be able to extend coverage to effectively every business location in the US.</p> <p>It is designed to help businesses stay online through virtually all outages and disruptions with independent 5G and Starlink pathways. These are attributed with delivering built-in redundancy that is said to be beyond legacy services.</p> <p>Outdoor 5G equipment enhances signal strength and extends access to T-Mobile’s network, while routers bring connections together into a single, resilient offering. SuperBroadband then intelligently orchestrates 5G and Starlink in real time to maintain uptime and performance without manual intervention.</p> <p>The infrastructure is supported by Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions’ <a href="https://cradlepoint.com/products/netcloud-manager/">NetCloud Manager</a> for centralised control of the latest Cradlepoint routers and outdoor adapters. Businesses can gain visibility and control across their entire network through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.t-mobile.com/news/business/t-mobile-launches-edge-control-and-t-platform">T-Platform</a>. This unified portfolio platform provides a centralised management experience, including real-time insights into hardware, performance, usage and health, along with backup readiness and failover events.</p> <p>Starlink and T-Mobile say that the net result of the partnership is that enterprises can deploy their IT teams on projects that are more strategic than connectivity while smaller businesses can finally access the kind of reliability and support that has only been available to the largest customers in the past.</p> <p>“Integrating Starlink with T-Mobile 5G brings reliable, high-performance broadband to businesses with mission-critical operations where downtime costs thousands per hour,” said Jason Fritch, vice-president of Starlink enterprise sales at SpaceX. “Setup is quick and easy, delivering immediate productivity even in the most remote locations. Uniting T-Mobile 5G with Starlink helps keep operations running when other paths fail, and extends connectivity to millions of new locations.”</p> US 5G internet provider inks deal with leading satellite constellation to deliver broadband with ‘virtually unbreakable’ connectivity https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/LeMagIT/hero_article/Hero-starlink.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642501/TMobile-Starlink-aim-to-reinvent-business-internet-from-ground-up-sky-down Thu, 30 Apr 2026 05:15:00 GMT <p>A study from the recently rebranded business division of UK mobile operator O2 has found that the country’s technology decisions are becoming harder to navigate and are having a tangible impact on firms, including reduced confidence in long-term growth, while technology challenges are increasing costs and slowing progress.</p> <p>The research from O2 Business – the new working name of O2 Daisy, which was created by <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366628283/O2-Daisy-opens-for-business">the merger of Virgin Media O2 (VMO2) Business and Daisy Group</a> – was conducted by Censuswide, which collected data from 502 UK business leaders between 22 and 23 April 2026.</p> <p>The survey data is said to highlight the scale of the challenge facing today’s leaders, with just over three-quarters of business leaders reporting increased personal pressure over the past two years, as their organisations balance cost pressures, growth ambitions and the need to adopt new technologies.</p> <p>Worryingly, the survey pointed towards a clear confidence gap emerging across the UK, with smaller businesses significantly less confident in their growth prospects than larger firms. Specifically, just over two-thirds of small office/home office (SOHO) businesses expressed confidence in long-term growth. This is compared with over 90% of mid-sized and larger organisations, pointing to a widening divide across the business landscape.</p> <blockquote class="main-article-pullquote"> <div class="main-article-pullquote-inner"> <figure> When technology is easier to deal with, businesses get back time, focus and confidence – and that’s when real growth happens </figure> <figcaption> <strong>Jo Bertram, O2 Business</strong> </figcaption> <i class="icon" data-icon="z"></i> </div> </blockquote> <p>While the research also showed that most organisations remain confident overall, it also found that complexity was beginning to erode that confidence. Some 16% of business leaders said that they were not confident in their organisation’s long-term growth prospects, highlighting underlying fragility beneath the headline figures.</p> <p>The findings pointed to what O2 Business called a growing “complexity trap” for UK businesses, with technology at the heart of the challenge. Two-thirds of leaders surveyed said technology decisions were becoming increasingly complex, and almost half believed their tech setup was more complex than it needed to be.</p> <p>Concerningly, this rising complexity was found to be already having a tangible impact on performance, with increasing operational costs (30%), putting pressure on leadership time and focus (26%) and slowing business growth (19%) cited as the top impact of technology challenges in the past 12 months.</p> <p>Leaders were seeing a clear way forward by simplifying technology and operations to cut spend, boost productivity and unlock growth, as a third (33%) faced rising costs.</p> <p>Commenting on the survey findings, O2 Business CEO Jo Bertram observed that most businesses don’t feel short of technology – they feel weighed down by it.</p> <p>“Too many systems, too many suppliers and too much time spent trying to make everything work together … we think it should be simpler than that. We’re breathing simplicity into the way business works by bringing connectivity and communications together in one joined‑up experience that just makes sense. When technology is easier to deal with, businesses get back time, focus and confidence – and that’s when real growth happens,” said Bertram.</p> <p>Matthew Riley, chairman of O2 Business, added: “UK businesses are the engine of our economy, but too many are being slowed down by complexity they never asked for. When organisations are tied up managing systems instead of strategy, productivity and growth suffer. Simplifying that landscape isn’t just a technical challenge – it’s a commercial opportunity.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about mobile business</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642341/Leeds-Bradford-Airport-takes-mobile-connectivity-to-higher-altitude">Leeds Bradford Airport takes mobile connectivity to higher altitude</a>: Neutral host provider installs all-operator 4G mobile connectivity to airport’s refurbished terminal and newly opened extension as an ongoing managed service, ensuring connectivity for passengers and staff.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639408/Wildix-looks-to-bring-conversations-under-enterprise-control-with-eSIM">Wildix looks to bring conversations under enterprise control with eSIM</a>: AI-powered Fixed Mobile Convergence capability designed to connect native mobile calls to enterprise workflows, preserving identity, context and customer insight without requiring an app.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640466/Infrastructure-is-back-as-Orange-Business-drives-trusted-agentic-platforms">Infrastructure is back as Orange Business drives trusted agentic platforms</a>: Annual customer gathering of enterprise arm of global telco sees launch of four key applications taking advantage of agentic AI capabilities and emphasising the need for robust and secure infrastructure.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641461/XCOM-RAN-intros-end-to-end-private-5G-for-physical-AI">XCOM RAN intros end-to-end private 5G for physical AI</a>: Next-generation private 5G technology provider unveils plans to expands spectrum and partners for global reach of dedicated wireless network.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Research from O2 Business finds that rising technology and operational demands are undermining confidence in long-term growth https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/O2-Business-Spatial-Insights-hero.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642430/UK-businesses-being-held-back-by-growing-complexity-trap Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:09:00 GMT <p>In the latest part of its 20-year concession to deliver high-speed mobile connectivity across the entire transport network, Boldyn Networks&nbsp;has been charged with delivering a 4G mobile network infrastructure that will enable the country’s Emergency Services Network (ESN) for London Underground.</p> <p>Neutral host provider <a target="_parent" href="https://www.boldyn.com/uk-ie">Boldyn Networks</a> was awarded a 20-year concession by <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366616875/TfL-cyber-attack-cost-over-30m-to-date">Transport for London</a> (<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366616875/TfL-cyber-attack-cost-over-30m-to-date">TfL</a>)&nbsp;in June 2021 to deliver high-speed mobile connectivity across the entire London Underground network. TfL&nbsp;carries up to four million passengers a day on the London Underground network, and renewing and preparing the communications network for the future has long been regarded as essential to maintain and improve critical infrastructure.</p> <p>The network upgrade is seen as an important step in updating London’s public safety critical communications, enhancing response times and improving the quality of information available to emergency services personnel addressing live incidents.</p> <p>Boldyn’s delivery of infrastructure for ESN on the London Underground is being carried out in collaboration with leading UK mobile provider EE, TfL and the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/home-office">UK’s Home Office</a>, with the primary aim of enabling more resilient and reliable communications services in the future for thousands of first responders including police, fire and ambulance services.</p> <p>The ESN has endured a series of problems since its inception with the £2bn network project beset by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/365531823/UK-National-Audit-Office-slams-mistakes-as-ESN-bill-soars-to-2bn">delays and cost overruns</a>. In 2015, the UK Home Office contracted suppliers to provide a new ESN to replace the existing and well-liked&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/blog/The-Full-Spectrum/Airwave-goodbye-hello-ESN">Airwave terrestrial trunked radio (Tetra) network</a>&nbsp;used by all 108 police, fire and ambulance services across England, Scotland and Wales to communicate between the field and control rooms.</p> <p>As part of its Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP), the Home Office intended ESN to fully replace Airwave, be less expensive and provide users with access to “modern” mobile data. The government expected to turn off Airwave in 2019. In the same year, the Home Office contracted BT-owned <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/365535457/EE-claims-monster-4G-connectivity-for-further-1500-UK-rural-communities">EE</a>&nbsp;to provide priority access to its mobile network and increase network coverage. It also contracted Motorola Solutions UK for software and systems including critical features not normally found on a mobile network, such as a first-of-a-kind “push-to-talk” functionality.</p> <p>Numerous delays and criticism of the role of Motorola Solutions eventually led to the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA)&nbsp;<a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252508705/UK-Competition-and-Markets-Authority-opens-investigation-into-Motorolas-Airwave">opening an investigation into the role of the Airwave network in the ESN in October 2021</a>, with a particular focus on the impact of Motorola’s dual role as the owner of the company providing the planned new mobile radio network and as a key existing supplier. In May 2023, the CMA recommended restricting how much Motorola can charge the emergency services to use Airwave.</p> <p>In January 2025, after several further delays and much criticism from Parliament regarding the project and its leading technology stakeholder, the current government decided to embark on a different approach to deliver the infrastructure, <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366617970/UK-Home-Office-reveals-new-approach-to-deliver-Emergency-Services-Network">appointing new IT and comms partners including IBM and Ericsson.</a></p> <p>The deployment for London Underground will aim to provide “seamless” mobile coverage across the 137 Tube, Docklands Light Railway and London Overground stations located underground. It will provide first responders with immediate access to what could be lifesaving data, imagery, live video and public safety information, supporting faster and more coordinated responses to live situations.</p> <p>Yet Boldyn also accepts that delivering these new capabilities within the London Underground presents unique engineering challenges because it is one of the UK’s most complex transport environments.</p> <p>“Access to connectivity for the emergency services can’t be compromised, especially in an environment as complex as the London Underground. Critically, ESN will ensure first responders can stay connected when it matters most, with access to the data and tools they need to respond quickly, safely and successfully,” said Paul Osborne, chief commercial officer UK at Boldyn Networks. “We’re proud to continue our work with TfL and EE to help safeguard the millions of daily passengers across the London Underground network.”</p> <p>In addition to the project to deliver mobile coverage across the Tube network, which remains on track for delivery by the end of 2026, Boldyn and TfL have committed to scaling the capital’s fibre backbone and installing small-cell technology on street furniture.</p> <p>Commenting on the new project, TfL’s director of technology products and operations, Rebecca Bissell, said:&nbsp;“Keeping our customers and London’s emergency services personnel safe while they travel and operate across our network is our top priority. That means ensuring frontliners are equipped with immediate access to lifesaving information to respond more effectively to emergency situations and keep London moving safely.”</p> <p>Faisal Mahomed, managing director of ESN mobile services at BT Group: “Extending ESN below ground marks another important milestone in our long-term commitment to empowering Britain’s emergency services with trusted, mission critical communications. We’re pleased to be working alongside Boldyn Networks and TfL to provide this service.”</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about London Underground connectivity and ESN</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366637334/Londons-Tube-network-extends-4G-5G-connectivity">London’s Tube network extends 4G/5G connectivity</a>: London Underground reveals more progress on introducing high-speed mobile coverage across the Tube network, with stations including Euston Square, Cannon Street and Battersea Power Station now gaining coverage.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366585817/CGI-selected-to-streamline-UK-ESN-programme">CGI selected to streamline UK ESN programme</a>: Controversial mobile network for UK emergency services mobile communications enters new phase with consulting firm appointed as technology delivery partner.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366640351/Fire-and-rescue-services-implement-shared-comms-command-centre">Fire and rescue services implement shared comms command centre</a>: Control room technology rolled out across three emergency services to make it possible to jointly manage emergency call handling, crew dispatch and incident coordination in mutual aid scenarios.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252529479/UK-government-reveals-further-ESN-contract-details">UK government reveals further ESN contract details</a>: Latest chapter in UK Emergency Services Network saga sees termination of Motorola contract for comms equipment and supplies, software packages and software development services.</li> </ul> </div> </div> Neutral host provider selected to deliver 4G mobile network infrastructure to enable Emergency Services Network across London Underground, supporting delivery of a critical national comms programme https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/ComputerWeekly/Hero%20Images/Transport-for-London-Underground-Fotolia.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642427/Boldyn-EE-TfL-deploy-ESN-infrastructure-across-London-Underground Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:56:00 GMT <p>Cisco has advanced its journey into quantum networks by unveiling Universal Quantum Switch, a working prototype designed to connect quantum systems from different suppliers.</p> <p>For some time, Cisco – with a number of partners – has been working on <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366632022/Cisco-unveils-software-to-accelerate-quantum-networks">distributed quantum networks</a>&nbsp;that it believes could lay the groundwork towards a quantum computing internet defined by quantum computers, sensors and communication in the late 2030s.</p> <p>Explaining the background to the launch, Cisco said current quantum computers are powerful but limited, operating at hundreds of qubits when real-world applications in healthcare, financial services and aerospace will need millions to achieve unheard-of speeds and technological breakthroughs. The company believes networking and connectivity are central to bridging that gap. The quantum future will not be built by any one company or any one technology. It will be built by connecting them all.</p> <p>Specifically regarding the new technology, Cisco suggested that attempting to connect billions of people and tens of billions of devices with direct cables would be unmanageable, and that the internet became possible because classical switches could connect all of those endpoints through a shared, scalable network.</p> <p>Yet given <a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366637028/Singapore-and-Japan-team-up-on-quantum-computing">quantum computers</a> encode information in different ways, until now, no switch could accept and translate between all major encoding modalities without destroying the quantum information in the process.</p> <p>The <a href="https://research.cisco.com/quantum">Universal Quantum Switch</a> is designed to address this challenge for the first time, routing quantum information while preserving it at room temperature, on existing telecom fibre, with a Cisco-patented conversion engine that translates between encoding modalities at input and output.</p> <p>When two quantum computers need to share information, the Universal Quantum Switch does the same thing for quantum: accepts the signal in whatever modality it arrives, translates it into a common language for routing, and delivers it in the format the receiving system needs, without losing any quantum information along the way.</p> <div class="extra-info"> <div class="extra-info-inner"> <h3 class="splash-heading">Read more about quantum networks</h3> <ul class="default-list"> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366636697/BT-UKs-next-phase-of-quantum-progress-hinges-on-network-build">BT: UK’s next phase of quantum progress hinges on network build</a>: UK’s leading network provider reflects on the country’s quantum progress to date, and proposes what needs to happen next as funding and focus shift towards delivery.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366641832/AK-Travel-journeys-with-Colt-for-global-quantum-safe-network">A&amp;K Travel journeys with Colt for global quantum-safe network</a>: Travel giant chooses services arm of digital infrastructure provider to build out its global connectivity network based on quantum-safe encryption systems&nbsp;that operate without distance limitations.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366634683/IBM-Cisco-light-up-quantum-networking-collaboration">IBM and Cisco light up quantum networking collaboration</a>: Firms collaborate to design a connected network of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers, laying the groundwork for a quantum computing internet.</li> <li><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366639275/Cisco-Qunnect-claim-quantum-first-with-datacentre-connectivity">Cisco, Qunnect claim quantum first with datacentre connectivity</a>: IT and networking giant collaborates with scalable quantum networks firm for what is said to be a successful demonstration of quantum networking connecting a datacentre to two research facilities in New York City.</li> </ul> </div> </div> <p>In addition, the technology is regarded as a critical milestone in quantum networking that addresses one of the most fundamental barriers to building a quantum network.</p> <p>A Cisco-patented conversion engine at the heart of the quantum switch is said to allow the output modality to match an input or be an entirely different one, enabling the quantum switch to connect and translate between quantum systems that were never designed to talk to each other, a critical capability for building quantum networks that work across different suppliers and technologies.</p> <p>Furthermore, it is designed to support all major quantum encoding modalities used to carry information. These include: polarisation, the orientation of light waves; the timing of light pulses (time-bin); frequency-bin, the colour or frequency of light; and the physical or spatial path. To date, the quantum switch has been experimentally validated with polarisation encoding. Support for time-bin and frequency-bin is built into the design and represents the next step in Cisco’s ongoing validation process.</p> <p>Proof-of-concept experiments – using Cisco’s own entanglement source and single-photon detectors – are said to have found quantum information preserved through conversion in the switch with less than 4% degradation in quantum state fidelity and entanglement. This means maintaining the coherence that quantum networks require to function.</p> <p>The tests also showed sub nano-second electro-optic switching, reconfiguring connections in as little as one nanosecond, and that the process is energy efficient, consuming less than one milliwatt of power.</p> <p>As a working research prototype, Cisco sees the switch as a proof point in accelerating its full-stack quantum networking programme. It is designed to route quantum information between systems while preserving it, with a Cisco-patented conversion engine that translates between all encoding and entanglement modalities at input and output.</p> <p>“Reaching this milestone is a pivotal moment for our quantum programme and a testament to the transformative potential of quantum networking,” said Vijoy Pandey, senior vice-president and general manager of Outshift, Cisco’s <a href="https://outshift.cisco.com/">emerging technologies and incubation group</a>.</p> <p>“We’ve long recognised that connecting quantum systems is the key to achieving true scalability, and now we’ve taken a critical step toward making that vision a reality. While this is a significant achievement, it’s just the beginning. The road ahead is long, yet the impact of what we are building – and what is still to come – will be nothing short of profound.”</p> Research prototype designed to connect quantum systems from different suppliers, in all major encoding modalities, at room temperature, over standard telecom fibre https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/visuals/German/article/quantum-computing-1-adobe.jpg https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366642353/Cisco-advances-path-to-quantum-network-with-universal-switch Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:45:00 GMT 60 editor@computerweekly.com