SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 7, 2024 – Deutsche Telekom continues to invest heavily in its network infrastructure, solidifying its position as a leader in European telecommunications. The company recently announced significant milestones in its fiber optic and mobile network expansion, alongside innovative initiatives like Open RAN and satellite integration.
Fiber Optic Expansion Reaches New Heights
Deutsche Telekom has reached a major milestone in its fiber optic rollout, now offering connectivity to ten million households. This achievement is coupled with a surge in customer adoption, with over 450,000 new customers opting for fiber optic plans this year – a 50% increase compared to the previous year.
"Our ambition is to be a role model in digitalization," says Srini Gopalan, Member of the Deutsche Telekom Board of Management responsible for Germany. "The basis for this is our mobile and fiber optic networks. And we are expanding them with all our might. We are getting better every year, and we have proven that again in 2024."
Open RAN and Antenna Tuning for a Future-Proof Mobile Network
Deutsche Telekom is embracing Open RAN (Open Radio Access Network) technology to enhance the flexibility and performance of its mobile network. The company has signed a contract with Nokia and Fujitsu to supply components for over 3,000 Open RAN-compatible antenna sites by 2027. This marks one of the first large-scale deployments of Open RAN in a commercial mobile network worldwide.
"The demands on our networks are extremely high," explains Abdu Mudesir, Chief Technology Officer of Telekom Deutschland. "Download speed and latency have to be right, and the amount of data is constantly increasing. To ensure that our customers always have the best network experience, our technology teams are doing extraordinary things. We are driving innovation by placing flexible, open standards and AI at the heart of our network."
5G for the Masses, Satellite Connectivity on the Horizon
Deutsche Telekom's 5G network now covers 98% of the German population, with LTE reaching 99%. The company is also exploring innovative solutions like satellite integration to extend coverage to even the most remote areas. In partnership with Cosmote and Skylo, Deutsche Telekom has successfully integrated satellite communication into its network, enabling the transmission of SMS messages directly to mobile devices.
AI-Powered Network Optimization
Deutsche Telekom is leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize network performance and energy efficiency. AI algorithms can anticipate network usage patterns and adjust antenna power accordingly, ensuring optimal performance during peak hours and reducing energy consumption during off-peak times.
"We are on the way to autonomous networks that increasingly control themselves," says Claudia Nemat, Board Member for Technology and Innovation at Deutsche Telekom. "The networks configure, monitor and maintain themselves. This means we have fewer outages, create higher quality and better energy efficiency."
Deutsche Telekom: Driving Digitalization in Germany
Deutsche Telekom's ongoing investments in network infrastructure, coupled with its embrace of innovative technologies like Open RAN, satellite integration, and AI-powered optimization, demonstrate its commitment to providing customers with the best possible digital experience. The company's ambitious expansion plans and focus on future-proof solutions solidify its role as a driving force in Germany's digital transformation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Deutsche Telekom's fiber optic expansion goal?
Deutsche Telekom aims to connect ten million households to its fiber optic network.
2. What is Open RAN and why is it important?
Open RAN is a technology that allows components from different vendors to be used in a mobile network, increasing flexibility and vendor diversity.
3. How is Deutsche Telekom using AI in its network?
Deutsche Telekom uses AI to optimize network performance, predict usage patterns, and improve energy efficiency.
4. What is Deutsche Telekom's coverage for 5G and LTE?
Deutsche Telekom's 5G network covers 98% of the German population, while its LTE network reaches 99%.
5. How is Deutsche Telekom exploring satellite connectivity?
Deutsche Telekom is testing satellite integration to extend mobile coverage to remote areas, with successful trials of SMS transmission via satellite.