Mobile World Live brings you our top three picks of the week, as Orange launched a satellite-based connectivity service, the US government outlined a plan to free up spectrum and Vodafone moved to commercialise its shared services business.
Orange hits launch button satellite offer
What happened? Orange extended its connectivity offering with the launch of a home satellite service, available to consumers in mainland France unable to access fibre and for those using low-speed ADSL.
Why it matters: Kester Mann, director of consumer and connectivity at CCS Insight, told Mobile World Live Orange is one of the first telcos make such a move in satellite and it could prove “transformative for people and businesses living in places poorly served”. However, he added that in a mature market like France, which is advanced in the deployment of fibre, such a service will likely remain niche.
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US government proposes National Spectrum Strategy
What happened? The US government unveiled the National Spectrum Strategy and a presidential memorandum seeking to conduct detailed studies over two years for the potential repurposing of 2,786MHz of spectrum in five different bands.
Why it matters: President Joe Biden’s administration said the review aims to adapt and improve the country’s spectrum policy. By potentially freeing up resources, it highlighted benefits to innovations around 5G, precision agriculture, unmanned vehicles and moon missions. AT&T told Mobile World Live it was encouraged the government recognises the spectrum needs of mobile operators.
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Vodafone, Accenture agree deal to create shared services unit
What happened? Vodafone Group enhanced a strategic partnership with Accenture to create a new joint entity focused on shared services, with the consultancy investing $150 million to take a minority stake.
Why it matters: The operator explained it would work with Accenture to build on its existing Vodafone Intelligent Solutions (VOIS) shared services unit, and create a scaled and commercially driven organisation. With Vodafone undergoing a significant strategy shake-up under recently appointed CEO Margherita Della Valle, the move gives further insight into her priorities. The unit will build on areas VOIS already has a presence in, including cloud, cybersecurity and data analytics, while tapping Accenture’s expertise in AI.
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