5G News Round-Up for the Week to 9 February 2025

This week saw significant developments across the 5G landscape, with major network deals, spectrum policy updates, and technological advances. Key themes included the continued evolution towards 5G-Advanced networks, spectrum allocation for mmWave bands, and growing integration of AI capabilities into telecom services.

Network Infrastructure & Deployment

Orange expanded its 5G partnership with Nokia in France through a four-year agreement covering radio infrastructure upgrades and cloud RAN trials. The deal includes Nokia’s open RAN-compliant 5G AirScale portfolio and AI-powered network management services.

In Malaysia, both incumbent Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) and new entrant U Mobile made strides in 5G-Advanced deployments. DNB activated Ericsson’s 5G-Advanced technology nationwide, while U Mobile demonstrated 5G-Advanced capabilities on the Penang Bridge using Huawei equipment, achieving average download speeds of 597Mb/s.

Spectrum & Regulation

India’s telecom regulator TRAI recommended auctioning nearly 3,000MHz of mmWave spectrum in the 37GHz to 40GHz bands. The proposal includes significantly lower reserve prices compared to previous 26GHz auctions, aiming to attract operator interest. A spectrum cap of 40% has been suggested, with flexible payment terms including 20-year installments.

In the UK, Ofcom granted Amazon’s Project Kuiper a license for satellite broadband services, positioning the UK among the first markets for commercial launch. The regulator also announced the release of additional spectrum in the 28GHz and 32GHz bands for fixed and satellite connectivity.

AI & Service Innovation

Verizon became the first US wireless provider to integrate Google’s AI capabilities into its service offerings, bundling Google One AI Premium into wireless and home internet plans at $10 monthly. The move reflects growing convergence between telecom services and AI applications.

Meanwhile, Google modified its AI ethics policy to potentially allow military applications, marking a significant shift from its previous stance against weapons development. The company cited the evolution of AI from research to mainstream technology as driving this change.

Suggested Reading

TRAI targets fresh mmWave bands for 5G auction

Highlights comprehensive spectrum allocation strategy for India’s next auction phase

EU forges ahead with controversial AI laws

Details new guidelines under the AI Act focusing on prohibited uses

Orange, Nokia extend 5G deal; target cloud RAN

Covers major infrastructure upgrade and cloud RAN trials in France

DNB turns on 5G-Advanced

Malaysia’s wholesale network operator deploys advanced 5G capabilities

Ofcom approves Project Kuiper launch

UK regulator grants license for Amazon’s satellite broadband service