Vodafone Germany has unveiled XR Stream, a cloud-based platform aiming to capitalize on the metaverse trend. The platform allows companies, artists, and other entities to integrate immersive experiences into their events. Combining Vodafone’s 5G metaverse expertise with livestreaming software from Berlin-based Inventive Studios, XR Stream made its debut at the Content Convention in Mainz.
Vodafone’s £7.4 Billion Prediction for Accelerated 5G Rollout
In recent research, Vodafone asserts that a swift rollout of standalone 5G across the UK could generate up to £7.4 billion ($9.2 billion) in additional economic value by 2030 compared to a more gradual approach. Conducted by WPI Economics, the study predicts that the densely populated southeastern region of the UK could see an additional £790 million ($990 million) accrued by 2030 with an expedited 5G rollout.
Arm Introduces Cortex-M52 for AIoT Applications
Chip design giant Arm has introduced the Cortex-M52, targeting the Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT). The Cortex-M52 aims to enhance digital signal processing (DSP) and machine learning (ML) performance in AIoT applications without incurring the cost overhead associated with dedicated DSP and ML accelerators. Arm envisions expanding AI capabilities to a broader range of devices, especially smaller, battery-powered ones like embedded sensors.
Ericsson, Vodafone, and Qualcomm Demonstrate RAN Reduced Capability (RedCap) Data Calls
Ericsson, Vodafone, and Qualcomm have collaborated on what they claim to be the first RAN Reduced Capability (RedCap) data calls on a European network. The demonstration, held in Ciudad Real, Spain, utilized Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X35 platform, bridging the gap between high-speed mobile broadband devices and low-bandwidth, low-power devices. RedCap protocol enables connectivity for simpler devices, enabling more connections to 5G networks at low power and cost.
Hexatronic Initiates Cost-Saving Program Amid Market Challenges
Hexatronic, a Swedish company specializing in products and services for fiber networks, has downgraded its short-term outlook and initiated a cost-saving program. The company anticipates a continued weakening of the market, particularly in Germany and the US, leading to potential job cuts of up to 160 full- and part-time positions. Hexatronic aims to achieve cost savings of around 90 million Swedish kronor ($8.57 million) and expects its EBITDA margin for H2 2023 to range from 12-14%.
BT Applauds UK Government’s Quantum Network Commitment
BT expresses satisfaction with the UK government’s commitment to deploying “the world’s most advanced quantum network at scale” by 2035, as confirmed in the Autumn Statement. Gabriela Styf Sjöman, BT’s Managing Director of Research and Networks Strategy, highlights the importance of nationwide quantum secure connectivity, commercialization, and international quantum networks in fostering the UK quantum economy.
UK Startup VC Funding Declines, Builder.ai Secures $250 Million
GlobalData’s research reveals a 43.6% year-over-year decline in venture capital funding for UK startups in the first ten months of 2023, dropping from $21.2 billion to $12 billion. The number of deals also decreased from 1,483 to 1,098. Despite the decline, the UK remains the leading European market for VC funding activity. Notable among the deals is the $250 million secured by Builder.ai, an AI-driven app development platform.
