Categories2018

Mobile access helps economic growth – high speed data boosts the impact

The impact of mobile access on economic growth has been well studied in recent years. Research has consistently shown a link between mobile coverage and economic growth – for example, the GSMA and Deloitte found that a 10% increase in mobile penetration increased a measure known as “Total Factor Productivity” by 4.2 percentage points. Total Factor Productivity, or TFP, measures economic productivity in a way that reflects the impact of technology. Interestingly, the effect was greater with higher-speed access and when data consumption is taken into consideration.

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Categories2018

WTL’s SMS Easy Hub on the shortlist for prestigious Global Carrier Awards

WTL’s work with leading Algerian operator, Icosnet, in building a wholesale SMS solution in the country has been recognised by Capacity Media in the prestigious Global Carrier Awards. The solution, based on SMS Easy Hub from WTL, which enables Icosnet to offer advanced A2P SMS services for carriers and businesses, is on the final shortlist for the “Best African Project” award.

Icosnet took advantage of WTL’s SMS Easy Hub and advanced SS7 gateways to launch the service in 2017, enabling connectivity between Icosnet’s IP network and SS7-based mobile networks in Algeria and beyond for the delivery of SMS messages. A2P messaging is of increasing importance for organisations that need to communicate with their customers.

This is because, despite the rise of IP messaging, SMS remains a key tool to reach the widest number of people. It offers secure, reliable and predictable delivery that can easily be measured and accounted for. Icosnet has pioneered the use of A2P messaging in Africa and is dedicated to bringing SMS access to organisations throughout the region.

The awards honour innovation in telecoms wholesale services and feature many of the leading carriers and solution providers from around the world. The ceremony takes place on the 24th of October in London. WTL, which previously won the same award in 2016 for the Vivada rural connectivity solution, is eagerly awaiting the results.

Categories2018

Why does 5G capture the headlines? It distracts from the real issue.

5G is making a lot of noise, but there’s a risk that it will divert attention from more fundamental issues. It’s costly, unproven and probably unsuitable as a rural solution – but investments could steal resources and focus from the need to increase rural connectivity with existing and proven technologies, such a 4G / LTE.

Read more “Why does 5G capture the headlines? It distracts from the real issue.”

Categories2018

Heading to autumn and a busy schedule of events!

With autumn already in sight, it’s time to remind you of forthcoming events that WTL will be attending.

September brings three key events and opportunities to meet with our team:

Connect Africa Summit 2018 takes place in Durban, South Africa, on 11th September.

This is associated with the next edition of ITU Telecom World, which also takes place in Durban, from 11th – 13th September.

Nigeria Com, 19th – 20th September, Lagos, Nigeria – watch out for our expert, Rubin Rose, who will be a featured speaker at the event.

To meet WTL at any of these events, please click here. We’d love to hear from you!