Browsing: Vodacom

Vodacom comes out firing at Icasa hearings

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JSE-listed cellular network operator Vodacom has warned of extensive job losses and damage to SA’s mobile industry if its regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa), pushes ahead with plans to cut wholesale mobile termination rates next month. In a presentation at Icasa hearings in Midrand on Monday, it has asked the regulator to implement the first proposed cut in the rates in March 2011, and to extend the end of the glide path period

Spectrum auction doubts as Nyanda steps in

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A plan to auction off valuable radio frequency spectrum that can be used to provide wireless broadband services appeared to be hanging in the balance on Tuesday after communications minister Siphiwe Nyanda raised concerns over the process. The council of the Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa) is meeting today (Tuesday) to discuss its response to the minister’s concerns. An Icasa insider says there is a possibility that an invitation

Stage set for battle over telecoms rates

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The stage is set for a battle of epic proportions at public hearings in Johannesburg next week. That’s when operators will make their arguments for and against proposed cuts in wholesale call termination rates. MTN, for one, has warned of dire consequences for its business and for the entire mobile ecosystem if industry regulator, the Independent Communications Authority of SA (Icasa), proceeds with its plans to cut wholesale mobile call termination rates to 65c/minute this year. Other operators have also lodged strong objections

Telkom spills beans on mobile strategy

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Telecommunications group Telkom will leverage its existing customers, offering mobile products to them as it gears up to launch SA’s fourth mobile operator. The company has finally begun to provide some details of its plans in the mobile space, where it is spending R6bn over five years to build a network to rival those operated by Vodacom, MTN

Vodacom chases mass-market Internet access

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Vodacom is introducing a range of low-cost devices, including a US$40 smartphone, in an effort to broaden the market that has access to e-mail and the Web in SA. The smarphone, developed for Vodacom parent Vodafone and meant for use in emerging markets, has a Qwerty keyboard and a basic, 2,2-inch TFT display

Vodacom may walk away from spectrum auction

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JSE-listed cellphone giant Vodacom may abandon plans to bid for wireless broadband spectrum in the 2,6GHz frequency band if the rules of engagement are not changed, TechCentral has learnt exclusively. Group CEO Pieter Uys says the demands on potential bidders made by the Independent Communications

Concern over Neotel as it posts R1,6bn loss

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Telkom rival Neotel reported a net loss of nearly R1,6bn in the 2010 financial year, according to information accompanying Tata Communications’ annual results. It’s the first time that India’s Tata Communications has revealed the extent of the losses being incurred by its SA subsidia

Telkom’s September was a ‘marked man’

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Politics. That may be the real reason Telkom CEO Reuben September’s contract is not being renewed when it expires in November. According to well-placed sources, he’s had a troubled relationship with the ANC under President Jacob Zuma after he oversaw the disposal of Telkom’s 50% stake in Vodacom. To understand the background, one has to go back to May