Consolation continues across the communications sector as companies position themselves for an AI-driven, real-time connectivity era — and the most recent deals point to a new phase of convergence across telecom, cloud, and satellite infrastructure.
For starters, IBM’s $11 billion purchase of Confluent underscores how central streaming data has become to enterprise AI, blending cloud platforms with low-latency data movement. Lumine’s acquisition of Synchronoss continues the consolidation of telco software under long-term ownership models designed to stabilize portfolios and integrate capabilities across messaging, cloud, and digital services.
At the same time, Cobham Satcom’s merger with Gatehouse Satcom signals deepening alignment between satellite networking and 5G NTN standards, reflecting the broader collapse of boundaries between terrestrial and non-terrestrial systems.
In an AI-native and hyper-connected world, companies are unifying data, software, and connectivity layers to remain competitive. The ongoing flurry of M&A activity and partnerships confirms something we’ve been hearing all along: No one can deliver next-gen digital services alone.
Catherine Sbeglia Nin
Managing Editor
RCR Wireless News
RCR Top Stories
Telco AI — beyond connectivity: Telcos are rethinking connectivity-only models by using existing infrastructure for AI services, unlocking new revenue paths beyond basic connectivity.
Global 6 GHz Wi-Fi snapshot : Ninety-seven countries now authorize some portion of 6 GHz. But only a subset allows the full 1200 MHz, making global harmonization a gating factor for next-gen Wi-Fi’s capabilities and competitiveness.
Lumine buys Synchronoss: Lumine Group will acquire Synchronoss for $116.4M, taking the cloud-software firm private, expanding Lumine’s global scale and long-term “buy-and-hold” strategy.
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Beyond the Headlines
BSNL’s 5G-ready network: BSNL has activated more than 93,500 indigenous 4G sites and says the network is fully 5G-ready. The operator is also upgrading power systems and improving reliability across its expanding footprint.
The top neoclould players: Neoclouds are a new class of GPU-focused cloud providers built for AI workloads. CoreWeave, Lambda, Nebius, RunPod, and others are reshaping AI compute economics.
Sponsored P5G for the AI enterprise: Private 5G has long carried a reputation for being heavy, complex, and slow to deploy. But it can be a lightweight and scalable foundation for AI in mission-critical industrial operations, as well.
U.S. capital drives APAC: Regulatory caps in Singapore, steady growth in Hong Kong, rising U.S. investment, and a $150B capex pipeline are reshaping how Asia-Pacific builds and finances its next wave of data centers.
OpenAI launches Aussie program: OpenAI has launched its first APAC country program in Australia, teaming with NEXTDC on sovereign AI infrastructure and partnering with major employers to deliver AI training.
What We're Reading
IBM buys Confluent: IBM has agreed to acquire data-streaming firm Confluent for $11 billion, enhancing its AI and hybrid cloud offerings by integrating real-time data capabilities into IBM’s enterprise stack.
5G satellite “powerhouse”: Cobham Satcom and Gatehouse Satcom have merged to create a global 5G satellite infrastructure entity, combining expertise and expanding reach for next-generation connectivity.
Airtel, Google to launch advanced chat: Bharti Airtel and Google plan to launch advanced chat messaging in India, bringing rich communication services beyond SMS to users through interoperable messaging features.
Automation for enhance performance: Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison has unveiled DragonWing RAN Automation Suite, a platform aimed at automating radio access networks to improve performance and operational efficiency for mobile operators.
Trump looks into Netflix, Warner Bros deal: President Donald Trump has hinted at possible regulatory intervention into Netflix’s proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery due to competition concerns.
Better gaming with 5G: Deutsche Telekom has launched 5G+ gaming with NVIDIA GeForce NOW, enabling high-performance cloud gaming over 5G networks for low-latency, immersive experiences.
High-capacity transmission in Poland: Poland’s Play has achieved its first ultra-high capacity optical transmission using Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme technology, boosting network bandwidth for future-ready connectivity.
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