Top 5 Telco Stories This Week That Might Have Been Missed…

5 | Expanding Links: STELLAR & 123NET Grow Michigan Fibre Routes

STELLAR Broadband has announced a partnership with 123NET to expand high-capacity fibre connectivity from Lansing to Grand Rapids, strengthening Michigan’s broadband infrastructure.

The project is set to deliver more bandwidth and reliability to communities across the region, supporting growing digital demands.

The agreement has secured access to 83 miles of new underground, high-density fibre. The new route will form part of a broader network loop now covering around 225 miles, linking Southfield, Lansing and Grand Rapids with a continuous, high-capacity backbone. Read more here...

4 | Alliance for Growth: FTI and e& Collab Targets Global Market

Telcos and fintech – what brings the two together in 2026… or perhaps, who?

Freedom Telecom International (FTI), a secondary of Freedom Holding Corp., has signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the collaboration of telecoms and financial technology with global tech group, e&.

Within the agreement is an outline of a framework which assesses opportunities in fintech, digital financial services and telecom innovation, with a view to launching joint initiatives in partner markets.

The news follows e& announcement of its new Chief Information Officer, Antonietta Mastroianni, who will be supporting initiatives like this. Read more here...

3 | How Telefónica Tech is Pushing Secure Digital IDs for Telcos

Telefónica Tech has introduced a new digital identity solution that gives users control over how their personal data is shared. 

Aimed at telecoms providers and public organisations, the system is built on self-sovereign identity (SSI), allowing individuals to manage digital credentials directly from their devices. These credentials include personal ID, certificates and access permissions.

The launch helps organisations prepare for new regulations across the European Union. With the EU’s digital identity framework, which is based on the EUDI Wallet project, the solution will be applied to all member states by the end of 2026. Read more here...

2 | BMW iX3: New AI-Driven Connectivity for Neue Klasse Fleet

Automotive manufacturer BMW has revealed new in-car technology that is intended to shape the brand's entire range of future models.

The enhanced, AI-powered BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which features Alexa+ technology, was presented to the public in January 2026 as part of a wider push into vehicle connectivity.

The system is integrated into the fully electric BMW iX3, representing the debut model for the Neue Klasse. According to BMW, the technology will be incorporated into 40 new models and upcoming updates. This development represents a significant step in the telecommunications and automotive crossover. Read more here...

1 | Virgin Media O2: Saving Customer Call Time Hours with AI

Virgin Media O2 has announced the removal of more than one million call transfers in a year as it updates its customer service operations using artificial intelligence and team training.

The telecoms operator saves customers more than 400,000 hours of call time during 2025 by reducing transfers and simplifying phone journeys.

Alan Stott, Virgin Media O2’s Director of Customer Contact, says: “We always aim to provide a seamless experience for our customers and minimise the need to contact us for support. Read more here...