Singapore’s IMDA to waive spectrum fees for 5G trials
Singapore’s Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) will waive spectrum fees for 5G trials to encourage industry tests of the emerging mobile technology. In a speech at the Infocomm Media Business Exchange, Singapore’s minister for communications and information Yaacob Ibrahim said the regulator will also conduct industry consultations to ensure the effectiveness of IMDA initiatives to stimulate the deployment of 5G, as well as the next-generation national broadband network (NG-NBN) and IoT networks. The regulator will seek industry views on 5G spectrum requirements and regulatory provisions, as well as probe how policies can develop in tandem with technology, he said.
Patrakom, SES ink satellite services deal for Indonesian waters
Indonesian telecoms and network solutions provider Patrakom has teamed up with SES to provide high-speed satellite broadband connectivity for Indonesian waters. The companies have entered a multi-year agreement to provide connectivity over the SES-9 satellite to over 80 passenger vessels and oil barges on domestic Indonesian routes. SES will provide services through its newly-created customer focused data division SES Networks. Announcing the deal, Patrakom said the SES-9’s high-power mobility beam will allow it to provide more cost-effective and affordable services to its multiple maritime customers, helping to overcome the traditionally high entry barriers to accessing satellite communications.
Singtel adds Malaysian OTT service tonton to CAST streaming app
Singtel has launched Malaysian OTT video streaming service tonton over the operator’s video streaming app CAST. Media Prima’s tonton offers over 23,000 hours of Malay entertainment, including programs from TV3, TV9 and tonton originals. This marks the first time the service is available outside of Malaysia. Singtel is making the OTT service available on CAST’s Aneka Plus pack, which is available at an introductory offer of S$7.90 ($5.60) per month, with the first three months free on a 12-month contract. Singtel also provides access to Malaysian TV network Astro Ria and Astro Prima Malay via its Singtel TV offering.
Nokia and Apple settle patent battle, enter new partnership
Nokia and Apple have reached a global settlement agreement to their intellectual property dispute, ending all litigation between the companies. The two vendors have agreed on a multi-year patent license, with Apple agreeing to provide Nokia with an undisclosed up-front cash payment and additional periodic revenues. In addition, the companies have entered a business collaboration agreement which will involve Nokia providing network infrastructure products and services to Apple. Apple will resume carrying Nokia’s digital health products in its retail and online stores. Nokia had been suing Apple in 11 countries alleging violation of a number of patents, including those related to healthcare and fitness devices.