e& tests enhanced RedCap on live network to push IoT onto 5G
UAE operator e& is validating enhanced RedCap (Reduced Capability) technology on its live network, offering higher throughput and support for more device types than baseline RedCap. The technology targets mid-rate IoT scenarios such as industrial sensors, wearables, and video surveillance, delivering stable connectivity without full 5G NR capability. e& will partner with module vendors and application developers to grow the device ecosystem, helping operators carry massive IoT connections at lower cost and lift ARPU.
Rakuten reduces KDDI roaming as own 4G/5G coverage expands
Rakuten Mobile confirmed that from October 2026 it will reduce reliance on KDDI roaming in areas well covered by its own network. After adding thousands of base stations, Rakuten's own 4G/5G population coverage has risen significantly. The move marks a shift from dependence on a single nationwide roaming partner to a hybrid network strategy, and is expected to improve gross margins while delivering a more consistent service experience within its own footprint.
Telstra accelerates 5G SA rollout and AI-driven growth
Telstra CEO Vicki Brady told an investor call that the operator will increase network density and accelerate 5G Standalone (SA) deployment in the new fiscal year. 5G SA core upgrades are complete in major cities, with the next phase focused on mmWave hotspot expansion and indoor depth coverage. Telstra is also embedding AI into network operations to optimize customer experience and cost per gigabyte simultaneously, targeting nationwide 5G SA coverage by 2027.
T-Mobile US outlines SA 5G strategy for large outdoor events
T-Mobile US SVP Salim Kouidri outlined the operator's connectivity approach for large outdoor events built on SA 5G. Leveraging the low latency and network slicing capabilities of standalone 5G, T-Mobile can allocate capacity on demand in high-density venues such as stadiums and music festivals, safeguarding live streaming and media upload experiences. The operator is also extending the service to public safety, emergency communications, and temporary network deployments, further boosting the B2B value of 5G SA.
Docomo plans Starlink D2D sequel to expand satellite direct-to-cell
NTT Docomo is planning a follow-up to its Starlink direct-to-device (D2D) satellite service, with the first commercial phase progressing well. The sequel will extend to automotive, maritime, and emergency communications scenarios, aiming to deliver seamless service in areas with weak terrestrial coverage. The partnership also covers spectrum coordination, roaming settlement, and device integration — a key step in Japanese operators bringing satellite connectivity into the mainstream connectivity landscape.
AT&T Business optimizes live video across multiple network types
AT&T Business launched a live video optimization solution spanning 5G, wireline, fiber, and satellite, targeting media, broadcast, and enterprise streaming customers. Using intelligent routing and QoS assurance, the solution dynamically selects the best link based on service type and network conditions. AT&T said multi-network coordination significantly reduces end-to-end latency and improves uplink bandwidth stability. The move reflects major operators treating multi-network convergence as a new growth lever.
UK boosts Shared Rural Network coverage in holiday hotspots
The UK government unveiled a new expansion round of the Shared Rural Network (SRN), adding 4G sites at holiday hotspots and remote rural areas, with a focus on coastlines and national parks. The project is jointly built and shared by the four major operators, targeting 98% 4G geographic coverage of the UK by 2027. Operators say the SRN not only improves connectivity for visitors but also supports emergency communications and local economic development.
Celona unveils unified Wi-Fi 7 + private 5G platform for industry
Celona launched an enterprise wireless solution integrating Wi-Fi 7, private 5G, public cellular, and satellite under a unified AI management platform to simplify deployment. The platform coordinates multiple access technologies through a single control plane, targeting high-reliability scenarios such as industrial manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, and large campuses, with an emphasis on fewer hardware SKUs and unified policy management. Celona aims to seize the moment as private 5G and Wi-Fi increasingly compete head-to-head for enterprise wireless.
Keppel obtains Singapore license for Kruger subsea cable system
Singapore's Keppel obtained a submarine cable license to advance the Kruger cable system connecting Southeast Asia with major global data centers. The cable is designed with high fiber counts and multiple fiber pairs to support high-capacity transmission between AI data centers, with service expected in 2027-2028. Keppel believes demand for trans-Pacific and intra-Southeast Asia submarine capacity is growing rapidly and is critical to AI compute networks.