This Week's Top Five Stories in Telco

How Boldyn Networks is Bringing 5G to Silverstone's Tracks

Boldyn Networks has announced a significant upgrade to the mobile connectivity at Silverstone, the iconic home of the British Grand Prix. 

The new permanent high-capacity 5G network will offer improved connectivity to fans, race teams and broadcasters, ensuring a seamless experience across the venue throughout the year.

How are Vodafone & Nokia Collaborating to Boost Security?

Vodafone and Nokia have extended their partnership to harness 5G for app developers, enabling safer digital experiences and helping fight fraud. 

The collaboration will see Nokia sell Vodafone Network APIs through its Network as Code (NaC) platform.

Using Vodafone’s global 4G and 5G networks, developers can build apps that verify identities, confirm active phone numbers and check ages. 

This improves security in sectors such as banking, retail and public services. Later in 2026, Vodafone and Nokia plan to launch differentiated connectivity and location APIs to further extend these capabilities.

5G at Sea: Ericsson & Leonardo are Testing the Waves

Ericsson, Leonardo and the Italian Navy have announced that they are conducting a maritime connectivity test using an Ericsson 5G SA system, placing advanced mobile network technology at the centre of naval operations.

The live trial enables connectivity between naval units engaged in a day and night training scenario on the open sea, highlighting how 5G SA supports mission-critical communications beyond terrestrial networks.

The demonstration focuses on long-range data communication at sea, secure information exchange and the integration of on-board systems, underlining how telecoms infrastructure operates in isolated and demanding environments.

Orange Travel Integrates Selector for eSIM Boost

Orange Travel, Orange's eSIM service for travellers worldwide, has joined Selectour, a major network of travel agencies, in a strategic partnership to simplify mobile connectivity during international trips.

From early 2026, Selectour clients have benefited from a preferential Orange Travel eSIM offer when booking trips at one of 1,000 points of sale or via the company website. 

The solution allows travellers to avoid roaming charges, local eSIM searches or insecure Wi-Fi connections, staying connected upon arrival regardless of their usual mobile plan.

How is LINX Manchester Serving Networks in the UK’s North?

The London Internet Exchange (LINX) has announced an upgrade at Lunar Digital’s data centre in Manchester, moving from a single homed transmission site to a dual homed, fully resilient Point of Presence (PoP).

The upgrade follows strong uptake at LINX Manchester, the interconnection hub serving networks across the North of England. 

LINX first went live at Lunar Digital in September 2024 to test demand for an additional PoP. 

The site initially operated as a single homed location, meaning it connects through one path into the wider LINX platform. Continued uptake confirms the need for a diverse and resilient presence.