Connect with us

Telecom

Telcos Accelerate Standalone 5G Deployment to Meet COVID-19 Induced Demand- GlobalData

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Internet has emerged as a critical lifeline for people and businesses across the world in 2020 as the COVID-19 crisis led to the rise in remote working, virtual schooling, online socializing and at-home digital entertainment, placing an unprecedented burden on the existing communication networks.

Telcos Accelerate Standalone 5G Deployment to Meet COVID-19 Induced Demand- GlobalData

Against this backdrop, telecom companies are using the opportunity to fast-track standalone (SA) 5G deployments by swiftly scaling their existing non-standalone (NSA) 5G assets, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Venkata Naveen, senior disruptive tech analyst at GlobalData, commented: “All the 5G rollouts by telecom companies pre-COVID have been NSA deployments with enhanced data-bandwidth and reliable connectivity through the existing 4G network infrastructure. However, COVID-19 has forced them to rapidly shift from NSA 5G networks to standalone 5G to meet the increasing demand.”

An analysis of GlobalData’s Disruptor Intelligence Center reveals how major telecom companies have fared with SA 5G rollouts in response to COVID-19.

T-Mobile rolled out world’s first nationwide SA 5G network in the US. Though the company rolled out 600 MHz 5G networks last year, it was based on the non-standalone architecture.

With the shift to SA 5G, the operator expanded its network coverage to over 250 million population and reduced latency by 40%.

AT&T made its SA 5G network available nationwide in the US, making it the country’s second major carrier after T-Mobile to achieve the milestone.

The network is now available to 205 million consumers in 395 regions across the US.

Verizon completed its first trial for end-to-end data transmission successfully over its SA 5G network.

It plans to start shifting mobile traffic from the NSA by the end of 2020 with full commercialization in 2021.

Vodafone launched the UK’s first live SA 5G deployment at Coventry University.

The network will initially be used to boost training outcomes of student nurses using virtual reality.

The move comes a year after the operator launched commercial 5G based on non-standalone (NSA) network technology.

In the rest of the world, China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom have started upgrading their existing network infrastructure to SA 5G; Ericsson in Europe plans to switch to SA 5G in 2021.

Mr Naveen concluded: “Bandwidth usage per average customer has increased since the COVID-19 outbreak. The need for high-speed Internet connectivity is becoming quintessential now more than ever with an intertwined virtual and physical presence, where demand for remote work, education, healthcare and e-commerce is increasing. The COVID-19 era can be seen as an early beneficiary of the SA 5G, which is essential to unleash the best of 5G. Looking forward, the SA 5G networks have the potential to unveil many direct-to-consumer use cases that have never been possible before.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Kindly share this post

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek believes that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. So since 2007, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and how they affect lives.

Telecom

CerAwards 2026: CeraVe & Konga Health Reward Top Creators with Paris Trips and N12M in Prizes

Published

on

Kindly share this post

The intersection of dermatological excellence, technological innovation, and creative storytelling reached a fever pitch on April 23rd as the inaugural Cerawards Africa 2026 took centre stage in Lagos. Orchestrated by CeraVe, the world’s #1 dermatologist-recommended skincare brand, in an exclusive strategic partnership with Konga Health, Nigeria’s leading distributor of premium skincare and beauty products, the event celebrated emerging creators with CeraVe-sponsored trips to Paris, N2 Million and other amazing prizes.

CerAwards 2026: CeraVe & Konga Health Reward Top Creators with Paris Trips and N12M in Prizes

CerAwards 2026

Making its debut on the African continent, CerAwards 2026 chose Nigeria as its first destination, a decision made possible through the direct result of the robust infrastructure and market trust built by Konga Health. This partnership between both brands reflects a shared commitment to driving accessibility, authenticity, and innovation within the beauty industry, while placing Nigerian talent firmly on the global stage.

Hosted by renowned media personality Bisola Aiyeola, the event delivered a seamless blend of entertainment and industry relevance. From the outset, it was clear that CerAwards was not just another awards ceremony, but a platform designed to reshape narratives, connecting skincare, storytelling, and commerce in a uniquely Nigerian way. The gala brought together the beauty industry elites, Nollywood stars, top influencers, and a new generation of digital entrepreneurs, all united by a singular vision of excellence.

Delivering his address at the event, Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, emphasised the strategic importance of innovation and excellence in building sustainable industries.

“What we are witnessing today is the convergence of technology, creativity, and commerce,” he stated. “At Konga, and particularly through Konga Health, we are committed to pursuing excellence in everything we do, ensuring that Nigerians have access to genuine products while also creating platforms that drive economic value. Technology remains the backbone of modern economies, and initiatives like CerAwards demonstrate how it can unlock new opportunities for growth, especially among young creators.”

CerAwards 2026 attracted over 800 entries from content creators across the country, reflecting the depth of talent within Nigeria’s digital and creative economy. Following a rigorous screening process by a distinguished jury comprising Funke Akindele (Nollywood actress, producer and director), Uzor Arukwe (award-winning actor), Anais Routhiau (CeraVe Africa), Ijeoma Balogun (CEO, Redrick PR), Subuola Oyeleye (Founder, Beauty Hut Africa), and Yvonne Enwerem (VP, Konga Health), the top 64 entries were shortlisted.

The competition, which recorded over 65,000 public votes, eventually expanded beyond its initial structure to accommodate 28 finalists, underscoring the exceptional quality of submissions.

Participants competed across six categories: Educational, Original, Viral Video, Cleansing, Body Moisturising, and Let’s Get Creative. The award categories spanned the full spectrum of the CeraVe experience, from educational content to viral creativity.

The awards produced six grand prize winners. Three exceptional creators won the ultimate “CeraTicket,” an all-expenses-paid trip to France to experience the heart of global beauty: Perpetua Ugwuegede (Body Moisturising), Boluwatife Lawal (Educational Content), and Iyanuoluwa Sowemimo (Let’s Get Creative). Three winners received N2 Million worth of premium content creation gear: Beryl Inegbenose (Original Content), Precious Ernest (Cleansing), and Joseph Shaka Momodu (Viral Video). The 1st runners-up were each awarded N1 million, while several other participants walked away with N500,000 in consolation prizes and gifts.

The event also featured special Nollywood Recognition Awards presented to Funke Akindele and Uzor Arukwe for their outstanding contributions to the film industry, further cementing the intersection between beauty, storytelling, and entertainment.

Beyond the awards, CerAwards 2026 represents a broader shift in how beauty brands engage with consumers in Africa. Through its partnership with Konga Health, CeraVe has tapped into a robust commerce and distribution ecosystem that prioritises authenticity, accessibility, and customer trust.

For Konga Health, the success of CerAwards reinforces its position as a trusted gateway for premium beauty brands and a champion of Nigerian creativity. As the platform continues to expand its offerings and partnerships, it remains focused on delivering value that resonates with modern consumers.

Under the leadership of Yvonne Enwerem, VP of Konga Health, the platform has become the exclusive custodian of CeraVe’s brand integrity in the region, ensuring that consumers are protected from counterfeits while enjoying seamless access to world-class dermatological solutions.

Ultimately, CerAwards 2026 has not only celebrated excellence, it has redefined what is possible when global brands and local platforms work together.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

Elon Musk Launches XChat with Video Calling to Take on WhatsApp, Messenger

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) has launched a new stand-alone messaging app on iOS devices, called XChat.

Elon Musk Launches XChat with Video Calling to Take on WhatsApp, Messenger

Elon Musk

This app will help users connect their existing X contacts for calling, chatting, and sharing files. This move shows how Musk’s previous idea of creating a single ‘everything app’ seems to shift to a different strategy now.

This newly launched app comes with features such as audio and video calling, text messaging, group chats, and file sharing.

Moreover, it features privacy-focused tools like disappearing messages, the option to delete and edit messages for everyone, and a feature that blocks screenshots.

Looking at these features, the XChat seems to take on WhatsApp and Messenger.

However, the tech firm said that the app has no tracking or ads.

In terms of privacy, X claimed that the instant messaging app is end-to-end encrypted and comes with a PIN.

This app is currently available to iOS users only, and more updates are expected in the near future, as teased by Benji Taylor, the X’s lead designer. The launch of this app reflects a shift in Musk’s strategy about turning X into an ‘everything’ app that will include payments, shopping, messaging, and more combined in one place.

However, the focus of xAI seems to be different now as the company seems to be developing several different apps instead of combining everything into one.

This approach may help X to reach users through their various services rather than a single platform.

While XChat focused on messaging currently, the tech firm is also reportedly testing a separate payments system, which is not available to the public so far.

More features and updates to the instant messaging app are likely to be arriving in the coming months as X continues to grow its ecosystem with more apps.

 

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Telecom

Globacom Unveils Two New TVCs Showcasing the Future of Connectivity

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Technology Company, ​Globacom has unveiled two vibrant television commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination,” reinforcing the telecommunications giant’s dedication to providing seamless, reliable connectivity for every lifestyle.

​These engaging campaigns illustrate how Glo remains an essential partner in both our daily routines and our boldest future aspirations.

​​“Road Trip” captures a relatable family adventure filled with laughter and authentic moments. The story follows Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi as she experiences the frustration of poor signal—only to find that switching to Glo transforms the experience instantly. Whether it’s navigation, downloading content, or staying entertained, the difference is clear with Glo, which ensures you stay connected no matter where the road takes you.

Starring alongside Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, the commercial featured Bolaji Ogunmola and others and their combination brought the best out of the TVC.

​Users can easily access data plans by dialling *312#, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted service on the go.

​Department, on the other hand transports viewers to a futuristic landscape where technology bridges the gap between creativity and reality.

Guided by the renowned Richard Mofe-Damijo (The Professor), the story explores how powerful ideas turn into extraordinary experiences. It showcases a smarter, more dynamic world—from real-time gaming to advanced culinary processes demonstrated by Hilda Baci and creative tech integration by Bamike Adenibuyan (Bam-Bam).

​The unique feature of the story is each scene serving as a testament to how Glo is actively shaping a future where technological possibilities are infinite.

​The Glo’s latest commercials carry a unified, powerful message: The future is here, and it is powered by Glo.


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending