Ericsson restructures networks unit
The world’s largest maker of telecom equipment is splitting its networks unit into two groups. One group will concentrate on radio technologies while the other will focus on IP and cloud initiatives. Johan Wibergh, head of Ericsson’s networks business unit, will oversee both of the new divisions.
Wibergh told RCR Wireless News that continued focused on the company’s radio access networks business is his top priority. In recent years, Ericsson has weathered the global recession and increasing competition from Chinese competitors with lower cost structures. A continuing focus on cost control has boosted margins and enabled Ericsson to remain competitive in a changing market.
“Radio is the foundation of Ericsson’s technology leadership and we are the undisputed market leader, same size as number two and three together,” said Ericsson CEO Hans Vestberg in a statement. “We are committed to maintain our leadership as the market evolves with 5G. In the cloud and IP space, which are vital for the evolution to 5G, we have made significant progress but are still a challenger.” The reorganization separates Ericsson’s strong core business from its cloud and virtualization initiatives.
NSN is now Nokia’s primary business unit
Nokia is closing the $7.5 billion sale of its device business to Microsoft, leaving Nokia Solutions and Networks as the major part of Nokia. NSN has been through significant cost cuts and layoffs during the last several years, and has managed to emerge with some key contracts. The company is a major supplier to China Mobile’s LTE buildout, and is also one of three vendors chosen to supply infrastructure for Sprint Spark here in the United States.
NSN is also well positioned to help carriers manage network traffic. It is one of the only major network equipment vendors with a video optimization solution.
Carrier DAS versus neutral host: stadiums weigh options
Making mobile connectivity easier for fans is a winning strategy for sports venues, and distributed antenna systems (DAS) have been the technology of choice to date. But what fans end up getting has a lot to do with how stadium owners decide to deploy.
Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis recently announced plans to install a neutral host DAS engineered by Mobilitie. From the beginning, the requirement was a system that would not favor the customers of any one carrier, so it was just a question of deciding which neutral host vendor to choose. The stadium owners have acknowledged that customers are also asking for in-stadium Wi-Fi, and have said that this may be part of a future upgrade.
The Cleveland Indians took a slightly different approach, tapping Verizon Wireless to install a DAS inside Progressive Stadium. The risk, of course, is that customers of other carriers may not enjoy the same quality of experience that Verizon customers get within the stadium. The upside is that Verizon is installing Wi-Fi in the stadium as part of the same project.
Colorado’s Falcon Stadium may be getting the best of both worlds. Stadium owners tapped Boingo Wireless to install a neutral host DAS and manage Wi-Fi connectivity inside the 52-year-old facility. Boingo will also manage Wi-Fi advertising and sponsorship services for the venues via its Boingo Media group.
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