Author: Anika Haque

  • E-type UK creates bespoke Jaguar speedster

    E-type UK creates bespoke Jaguar speedster

    E-Type UK, the world-leading expert on the definitive classic sports car, has completed a painstaking 3,500 hour restoration and bespoke upgrade programme on a Jaguar E-type Series 1 Roadster, producing a refined and optimised british speedster.

    Famously described by none other than Enzo Ferrari as the most beautiful car in the world, thanks to the hadlow, Kent based E-Type UK, this gleaming E-type now delivers a fast road driving experience to match the stunning looks.

    An icon revitalised

    The subject of the restoration and upgrade works, a 1961 left-hand drive model, was first delivered new to Puerto Rico. After many years overseas, the car returned to the UK, being bought by the current owner as the basis for creating his ultimate open top E-type.

    He tasked E-Type UK – recognised marque experts, and specialists in custom Jaguar builds – with further refining the car’s elegant 1960s bodywork to create something more purposeful, with elevated modern performance to match.

    The customer – who intends to use the car exclusively in warmer climates – instructed the team to remove the soft top entirely, to create a true E-type speedster.

    Meticulous restoration process, inside and out

    E-Type UK’s expert team have since lavished over 3,500 hours on the car, focusing on every detail down to the very last bolt. As with all the firm’s restoration projects, the process began with a full strip down of the shell, and removing all components.

    The team then undertook a comprehensive assessment of the body panels to ensure structural integrity, before carefully blasting them to remove half a century of material build-up. 

    During the team’s analysis of the car, it was discovered that significant repairs to the shell were needed, with multiple panels badly corroded or rotted from years of exposure to the elements.

    E-Type UK seized this opportunity to further refine the bodywork and enhance that iconic 1960s design, with a de-seamed bonnet and tailgate, including further rounding of bodywork edges across the car.

    The de-seaming process also allowed the specialists to remove exterior chrome work for a cleaner look, including the exterior door handles – replaced with a subtle internal electronic release.

    The new aesthetic was capped off by custom headlight covers and – with no need to accommodate a soft top – all finishing edges have been beautifully rounded.

    With the metalwork complete, the iconic silhouette of the E-type emerged anew and then was surfaced and finally treated with a coat of Opalescent Gunmetal for a rich, lustrous finish.

    The painting process took over 400 hours in all, using the highest quality products to achieve a show stopping depth and shine.

    An interior to match

    The same attention to detail has been paid to the interior, with the E-type UK team creating a custom, totally transformed cabin. Realising the client’s vision, a custom finish was applied to the seats, sills and carpets – which are now adorned in Red diamond quilted leather.

    This is offset by a gleaming, period correct aluminium centre console and dash, housing the iconic original lineup of Smiths gauges.

    The team have also fabricated a bespoke storage area across the rear bulkhead, making use of this space, which is now beautifully trimmed in matching leather and pattern.

    This bespoke storage space also doubles up as a useful seating area for furry friends, ensuring the families beloved pets can tag along for the ride. E-Type UK has supplied a removable padded section for added pet friendly comfort. 

    Pursuit of mechanical perfection

    The team have spent hundreds more hours on work beneath the car’s skin, with entirely refreshed and overhauled mechanical components.

    While the car was in paint, the team had been hard at work preparing and enhancing the car’s vital elements, such as its beating heart: the fully rebuilt, 3.8-litre straight six engine, now finished to a ‘fast road’ specification.

    The motor has been overhauled from top to bottom in the E-type UK workshops. After being fully stripped down, the block was honed and bored, with high-lift cams and new bearings fitted, along with bronze valve guides, uprated valves, a ported head and a balanced crank.

    It is now fed by fully rebuilt triple SU carbs, with an increased compression ratio and new lighter flywheel. The car now also benefits from electronic ignition, sport ignition coil, high-torque starter motor and lightweight alternator.

    These changes are complemented by an uprated, performance cooling system and larger fan, for dramatically improved air-flow – ideal for enthusiastic drives in the warmer climes where this car will reside.

    These changes have created a powerplant that now revs with a newfound urgency, emitting an addictive straight six roar in the process – now all the more enveloping thanks to the new ‘speedster’ layout.

    The motor drives through a brand-new, beautifully mechanical, 5-speed manual gearbox, and the enhanced performance is kept in check thanks to upgraded adjustable suspension and sports performance brakes.

    A gleaming masterpiece

    E-Type UK’s creation of this stunning, highly bespoke E-type Speedster stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence in classic automotive space, with a unique ability to blend originality and with carefully selected, transformative enhancements.

    It also acts as a fine reminder of the E-type’s timeless allure, a true British design icon that now delivers truly modern performance to match the stunning looks.

  • Global VR market will hit $57 billion by 2030, forecasts globalization

    Global VR market will hit $57 billion by 2030, forecasts globalization

    Virtual reality VR is a niche technology with gaming, entertainment, and professional training applications. Despite the challenges that will limit the adoption of VR technology, the global VR market is forecast to grow from  $11 billion in 2023 to $57 billion by 2030, registering a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 26 percent over the period, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    Globaldata’s latest Strategic Intelligence report  “Virtual Reality,” reveals that while the revenue share of VR software in the total VR market will slightly decline from 61 percent in 2023 to 59 percent in 2030, VR hardware will increase its share from 39 percent in 2023 to 41percent in 2030.

    Shabnam Pervez, Analyst, Strategic Intelligence team at GlobalData, comments: “As VR adoption grows, both hardware and software will experience more demand. Demand for VR software will be driven by advancements in content creation and the development of more immersive experiences while declining hardware costs will make VR headsets more accessible to a broader audience.”

    Globaldata’s report also highlights that VR players may eventually transition to mixed reality MR, which is a hybrid technology that enables users to see and interact with virtual objects integrated into the real world. MR has become desirable to headset makers as an alternative to VR.

    For example, HTC, Meta, and Pico started with pure VR headsets but have pivoted to MR. HTC released its vive focus 3 in 2022, a standalone mixed reality headset. The meta-owned oculus is also working on Mr headsets. Pico Interactive also makes several MR headsets, including the Pico Neo 3.

    Pervez adds Apple’s vision pro, launched in february 2024, is typically described as an Mr device. Apple will likely set the path for many more VR makers to transition towards MR. However, VR companies will all strategize differently. For example, Meta will likely continue to call its devices VR headsets as it has invested so much in VR tech. However, the company’s offering has more in common with MR than standalone VR.

    The transition reflects an interest in bridging the gap between the immersive world of VR and the user’s physical environment. MR’s ability to overlay digital elements onto the real world presents exciting possibilities for applications where maintaining awareness of surroundings is crucial. The market is responding to a demand for MR in areas like design, education, and even healthcare, where seamlessly blending virtual elements with real-world environments holds significant value.

    Despite advances in hardware and software, VR faces significant challenges that will hinder its growth. One of the primary obstacles is its cost. VR headsets, even those with basic features, typically cost between $200 and $1,000. Additionally, some VR headsets must be tethered to powerful devices to function effectively, which can further increase the overall cost.

    Another challenge is the potential for negative health effects associated with prolonged VR use. Some users have suffered eye strain, headaches, and motion sickness. Addressing these health concerns is crucial to ensure the long-term viability of VR technology.

    Pervez concludes moreover, the development of compelling and diverse VR content remains a challenge. While there have been some successful VR experiences, creating content that truly captivates users and offers lasting value is not always easy. The lack of a thriving VR content ecosystem could further limit the appeal of the technology.

    The estimate includes revenues generated by VR hardware i.e., headsets and software i.e., apps and content distributed via VR app stores. It does not cover revenues from VR services like hardware designing, app development, and VR arcades

  • Enhancing compliance and sustainability in fishing operations

    Enhancing compliance and sustainability in fishing operations

    Empowering hybrid connectivity at sea

    Satellite-based hybrid connectivity solutions are uniquely positioned to support fishing vessels, even in the most remote waters by integrating satellite technology with other communication systems, fishing fleets can maintain continuous connectivity, no matter their location of the weather conditions.

    This uninterrupted connectivity enables real-time tracking, optimised navigation, and enhanced fleet management, bridging the information gap that often hinders compliance and operational efficiency.

    Hybrid satellite networks facilitate secure data transfer and communication for vessels, regulatory bodies, and environmental organisations, creating a seamless connection between the industry’s needs and sustainability goals.  

    Ensuring compliance and transparency through real-time data

    Regulatory compliance is a cornerstone of sustainable fishing practices, and satellite connectivity plays a crucial role in enabling it. Through satellite networks, fisheries can transmit accurate and timely data on their location, fishing activities, and catch data, to meet national and international environmental regulations.

    This ensures that vessels adhere to restricted fishing zones, seasonal bans, and protected marine areas, aiding regulatory agencies in monitoring compliance and reducing illegal fishing. With hybrid satellite solutions, fishing vessels are equipped with powerful, efficient tools to uphold environmental standards, protect marine life, and promote legal fishing practices.  

    Combatting overfishing with data and analytics

    Overfishing remains a critical challenge, and satellite-enabled data is paving the way for more informed decision-making. By collecting and analysing data in fish stocks, fishing patterns, and catch sizes, satellite technology allows both fisheries and environmental organisation to understand and mitigate overfishing trends.

    This insight empowers fisheries to make data-driven decision on when, where, and how much to fish, safeguarding marine ecosystems and supporting the long-term sustainability of fish populations.  

    The future of sustainable fishing: Harnessing the power of satellite innovation

    As the fishing industry embraces sustainability, the role of satellite connectivity is set to expand. Innovations in satellite technology, in collaboration with environmental and regulatory bodies, are positioned to support fisheries in meeting global demands for sustainable, compliant operations.

    The commitment to hybrid connectivity solutions, bolstered by advanced satellite networks, represents a future where fishing fleets operate with both efficiency and responsibility, contributing to a healthier ocean ecosystem.  

    Gregory Darling, founder and chairman at AST networks, said, at AST networks, we believe that hybrid satellite connectivity is key to advancing both operational efficiency and sustainability in the fishing industry.  

    By providing real-time tracking and data-driven insights, we’re empowering fleets to operate responsibly and in compliance with the environmental standards. Our mission it to support the industry’s transition to sustainable practices, ensuring that our oceans are protected for future generations.

  • Volvo Group and Daimler Truck sign binding agreement for joint venture

    Volvo Group and Daimler Truck sign binding agreement for joint venture

    As announced in may this year, Volvo Group and Daimler Truck intend to create a joint venture to develop a common software-defined vehicle platform and dedicated truck operating system, providing the basis for future software-defined commercial vehicles.

    The two leading companies in the commercial vehicle industry have now signed a binding agreement to establish the joint venture and are working towards setting up the company that will be headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden.

    The software-defined vehicle platform will enable Volvo Group and Daimler Truck and potential other future customers of the joint venture to provide stand-alone digital vehicle functions for their products. 

    Leading the digital transformation

    The signing demonstrates our joint commitment to lead the digital transformation of our industry. The software and hardware from this joint venture will be crucial for achieving unprecedented levels of safety, comfort, and efficiency for our customers, says Karin Rådström, CEO of Daimler Truck.

    Martin Lundstedt, president and CEO of the Volvo Group, adds we are joining forces to redefine software architecture and pioneer a new era of self-optimizing trucks.

    Together we are removing complexity to allow our customers to unlock higher levels of connectivity, safety and efficiency and continually push for a greater performance. It is a revolutionary response to the challenges of our modern world, and we are proud to be setting the industry standard.

    The joint venture’s activities will include the specification and procurement of centralized high-performance control units dedicated for commercial vehicles and capable of handling large amounts of data.

    The new company will develop an operating system and tools which vehicle manufacturers can use as a basis to develop their own differentiating digital vehicle features. This will decouple software and hardware development cycles in the future and enable customers to purchase and update digital applications wirelessly over the air, ultimately enhancing customer efficiency and experience. 

    Volvo group and daimler truck will remain competitors and continue to differentiate their complete product and services offerings, including their respective digital solutions.

  • AI-powered drone swarms transform industries beyond defense

    AI-powered drone swarms transform industries beyond defense

    While drone swarms have been an area of technological development for many years, their practical applications have only recently gained significant momentum, particularly following increased attention during the Russia-Ukraine war, as reflected in Google search trends.

    The rapid advancement in AI technologies has further accelerated drone swarm control capabilities, enabling the integration of computer vision algorithms and geospatial data to recognize patterns and automate previously impossible operations.

    This evolution has led to drone swarms finding diverse applications across multiple industries, earning recognition as a high-impact innovation, according to technology foresights, an innovation intelligence platform by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The latest advancement in drone swarm technology significantly enhances operational efficiency by eliminating the traditional requirement of one operator per drone. This breakthrough achieves advanced autonomy through onboard intelligent agents, developed using human-in-loop and trustworthy ai systems.

    These agents can independently assess their surroundings, exchange target data with other drones, and make mission-priority decisions without requiring constant communication with the control station. This innovation addresses a critical weakness in swarm-based warfare systems, where electronic warfare tactics frequently overwhelm communication systems and disrupt the data connection between drones and their control stations.

    Sourabh nyalkalkar, practice head of innovation products at globaldata, comments in an era marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, drone warfare has emerged as a pivotal element in modern military operations, with armed forces globally embracing unmanned aerial vehicles for a diverse range of tactical and reconnaissance missions.

    In a significant development, defense industry major Thales recently showcased a full-scale demonstration of drone swarm deployment, featuring multiple autonomy levels that significantly reduce operator cognitive burden. The company’s expertise in this domain has not gone unnoticed, as Thales has been recognized as one of the leaders in drone swarm control innovation, according to Technology Foresights.

    In response to the current geopolitical climate and growing military demand for advanced drone capabilities, drone swarm control technology is expected to experience significant growth. Patent analysis reveals that over 50 percent of technology patents in this field have been granted within the past three years, with major corporations holding the majority share.

    Though smaller in proportion, startup-owned patents are rapidly increasing, accompanied by growing investment activity in the sector. Recent developments highlight this trend, as demonstrated by Ukrainian startup Swarmer securing $2.7 million in funding for the development and commercialization of its AI-based swarm control technology, Styx, while another US-based startup, EchelonAI, entered into M&A with Skyfire.

    Nyalkalkar continues thehe innovation landscape in drone swarm control technologies extends well beyond the defense sector, with significant developments emerging from the communications and networking industry. Telecommunication companies are rapidly adopting drone swarms for various applications, including network optimization, infrastructure monitoring, and emergency coverage deployment in critical areas.”

    The technology’s development ecosystem is diverse and competitive, with over 100 companies actively innovating in this space. While defense industry leaders like Thales, RTX, Northrop Grumman, and BAE Systems continue to advance military applications, specialized drone manufacturers such as SZ DJI, Skydio, and Tevel are making significant contributions.

    Additionally, major telecommunications players including Qualcomm, Ericsson, Verizon, and AT&T are developing their own drone swarm solutions, while geospatial solution providers like Here and Geofrenzy are expanding the technology’s capabilities.

    Nyalkalkar concludes The rapid advancement of AI technology has catalyzed unprecedented growth in drone swarm applications across diverse sectors. Retail and logistics giants such as Amazon, Walmart, and UPS are developing autonomous master-slave drone networks for last-mile delivery, while agritech companies such as Nileworks are creating innovative solutions for crop monitoring.

    As drone swarm control technologies continue to evolve beyond traditional entertainment and light shows, this dynamic field promises exciting developments and transformative applications across multiple industries in the coming years.

  • Smart City Expo aims for ‘ethical urban future together’

    Smart City Expo aims for ‘ethical urban future together’

    Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), the leading international event on cities and smart urban solutions, will host its largest edition yet from November 5-7, 2024, at Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue.

    With a 30 percent growth in the exhibition floorspace and under the theme “Live Better,” the 2024 edition will delve into the strategies needed to transform metropolises into sustainable, efficient, and livable spaces and will gather 1,100 exhibitors representatives of 850 cities and over 600 experts to outline “a more ethical urban future together”.

    The event will gather over 600 speakers and international experts in its congress to share the latest experiences, strategies, and breakthroughs in urban transformation.

    The conference program is structured around eight main tracks enabling technologies, energy and environment, mobility, governance, living and inclusion, economy, infrastructure & buildings, and safety & security.

    The event will bring together metropolises from all over the globe to share their latest projects and experiences and promote the technologies developed to deploy them.

    With representatives from over 850 cities in attendances, among the countries and cities exhibiting are Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, UK, and USA. 

    Ugo Valenti, director of Smart City Expo World Congress, stated, “Smart City Expo 2024 aims to set a common target for urban innovation worldwide improve welfare, create opportunities, and foster a better relationship with our planet and communities.

    “If we want to live better, we must rethink our way of life, leveraging technology, innovation, and collaboration. We want to offer a meeting point for all actors in this field to get together and draft a roadmap to a better tomorrow.”

    Leading companies from around the world will showcase the latest solutions and technologies enabling cities to improve mobility, public services, utilities and citizen engagement such as saudi aramco, Axis Communications, Dahua Technology, Dassault Systèmes, Dell Nvidia, FCC Medio Ambiente, Hail City, KHNP, KPMG, Madinah City, MDEC, Microsoft, New Murabba, Nova Cidade, PNY, PWC, Roshn Group, Smart Ports Piers of the Future, and Veolia.  

    Moreover, in 2024 SCEWC will delve deeper into the role that start-ups have in their developing process of new technologies. To do so, the event will debut the Innovation playground, a space to connect the main players of the global innovation ecosystem including startups, investors, governments, corporations, and research centers.

    In addition, SCEWC will also hold the third edition of the barcelona Deep Tech Summit, an event by Barcelona Activa focused on scientific tech entrepreneurship and university spin-offs.

    Keynote speaker lineup

    The 2024 edition of SCEWC will feature some of the leading thinkers in the urban sphere. Among the 600 speakers Ruha Benjamin, Majora Carter, Stephanie Hare, and Melati Wijsen stand out.

    Benjamin is a renowned expert in technology-based inequity who has focused her work on the intersection of race, technology, and society. Professor of african american studies at princeton university, benjamin has studied how emerging technologies and scientific advancements impact social justice and inequality.

    Majora Carter is an awarded urban revitalization strategist and environmental advocate known for her efforts to transform the South Bronx, her hometown, by promoting green spaces, sustainable economic development, and equitable community engagement. 

    How technology impacts public policy, human rights, and social justice is the domain of stephanie Hare. With a background in both academia and industry, Hare has worked on issues related to data privacy, surveillance, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence.

    Melati wijsen is an environmental activist and co-founder of Bye Bye Plastic bags, a youth-led movement aimed at reducing plastic waste. She started the organization at age 12 and has since become a prominent advocate for sustainability and youth empowerment.

    Melati has been recognized globally for her efforts, including being featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and speaking at international forums such as the United Nations.

    World Smart City Awards

    SCEWC will also host a new edition of the world smart city awards to acknowledge the most outstanding initiatives and projects in the innovation and urban transformation industry. With a total of 429 entries from 64 countries, the 13th edition of these accolades is the biggest to date.

    The winners of the 9 categories featured – City, Leadership, Innovation, enabling technologies project, energy and environment project, mobility project, governance and economy project, living and Inclusion project, and infrastructure and buildings project will be announced during a special gala hosted on the evening of Wednesday, November 6th.

    Largest showcase of Urban Innovation

    Fira de barcelona will strengthen its role a global hub for urban innovation by holding SCEWC 2024 together with Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress, Tomorrow Building World Congress, and tomorrow.Blue economy.

    Tomorrow mobility world Congress, jointly organized by fira de barcelona and EIT urban mobility, an initiative of the european Institute of Innovation and Technology, a body of the european union, aims to speed up the adoption of new sustainable urban mobility paradigms.

    Focusing on topics as New mobility services, public transport, autonomous mobility, last mile logistics, data for mobility, Mobility Infrastructure, zero and low-emission mobility, active and Inclusive mobility.

    In addition, tomorrow.building world congress will bring together the construction sector to showcase the most innovative solutions, projects and strategies for transforming the industry.

    To do so, the event will focus on five major challenges urban planning and landscaping, construction technology, design technology, decarbonised building and sustainable transformation of buildings.

    With over 100 experts and 30 conference sessions, the congress will give special relevance to women in the construction industry featuring architects melike altinisik and liselott stenfeldt as keynote speakers.

    Tomorrow blue economy will hold its third edition with the goal of promoting the huge potential of the seas and oceans as a source of sustainable economic growth.

    Organized with the support of the Barcelona City Council, Port de Barcelona, World Ocean Council and Smart Ports Piers of the Future, the event will gather experts, companies, institutions and community leaders to showcase innovative solutions, programs and best practices carried out in recent years with the aim of advancing an interdisciplinary approach in this field, including public-private collaboration.

    Among the topics discussed feature climate change, finance, offshore energy, water management, biodiversity, green shipping, smart ports, and recreational boating.

  • Dryad Networks raises €6.3 million to develop drone-based system for detecting wildfires

    Dryad Networks raises €6.3 million to develop drone-based system for detecting wildfires

    Dryad Networks, a pioneer in ultra-early wildfire detection technology, has received a major financial boost to advance its wildfire prevention solutions.

    The company has been awarded a €3.8 million grant from the European Regional Development fund ERDF, via Investitionsbank des Landes Brandenburg ILB, to accelerate the development of its revolutionary  wildfire suppression project, codenamed Florian.

    This significant grant will drive the development of an autonomous drone-based system designed to combat wildfires at their inception.

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  • Cobod builds homes ‘faster’ with its latest 3D construction printer

    Cobod builds homes ‘faster’ with its latest 3D construction printer

    Cobod International, a specialist in 3D construction printing technology, proudly introduces the BOD3 3D construction printer for 3D printing of real concrete.

    Equipped with an extendable ground-based track system, the BOD3 advances the construction process by eliminating printer downtime between multiple buildings on the same site, setting anew benchmark for productivity and efficiency.

    The BOD3 is the most advanced solution for high-volume low-rise construction and a very effective alternative to conventional construction methods.  

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  • Kiro Race debuts striking new livery ahead of new Formula E season

    Kiro Race debuts striking new livery ahead of new Formula E season

    Kiro Race Co has unveiled its vibrant new livery for Season 11 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. Anchored by a fluorescent yellow base, Kiro Race Co has designed its livery for instant recognition and lasting visual impact.

    This bold new design is more than cosmetic. It’s the centrepiece of Kiro Race Co’s philosophy. It’s a declaration of our team’s unwavering determination to defy conventions and excite fans. We want fans and competitors to know without a doubt who we are when they see our cars on track.
     
    We set out to create a design that is not only cool but also impossible to miss whether on the track or in the paddock, said Alex Hui, team principal of Kiro Race Co.

    It’s more than just aesthetics this livery is a bold declaration of our identity as daring upstarts, ready to redefine the rules. We want this design to spark excitement, inspire our fans, and attract partners who share our drive for bold innovation and fearless competition.
     
    Commercial director Jon wilde adds, designed to be the most visible car on the Formula E grid, our livery is a powerful tool to connect with our audiences. It is a visual statement that will capture attention, attract like-minded partners, and deepen our connection with fans – all critical to achieving our ambitious targets as a sports franchise.
     
    The design embodies our innovative approach to Formula e, fusing cutting-edge technology with our passion for racing. We’re dedicated to driving eMobility forward and setting new sustainability standards. It is a testament to our commitment to positively impact the future of motorsport.
     
    We will be announcing our driver line up for Season 11 in the coming weeks. With our dedicated team of engineers and mechanics, updated cars, and driver lineup, we’re positioned to leave a lasting mark on the upcoming season and establish ourselves as the dynamic underdogs in formula e.

  • Infovista launches new partner program to align with delivery of 5G

    Infovista launches new partner program to align with delivery of 5G

    Infovista has launched Infovista Synergy, a transformative partner program designed to enhance collaboration with Value Added Resellers (VARs), driving growth and innovation in the deployment of the latest RAN technologies, automated network performance solutions and proven qoe optimization tools.

    The launch represents a pivotal shift in how Infovista engages with its partners, enabling a streamlined, proactive approach to delivering next-gen telecom solutions.

    The synergy program is designed to empower partners by fostering deeper cooperation and providing them with the tools, training and resources they need to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving telecom landscape.

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