Travel Tech Update: European Satellite and 5G Network Expansion
Published Oct 20, 2026 · 2 min read · 6 verified sources
Recent telecommunications and network developments are shaping mobile connectivity for international travellers. From satellite spectrum initiatives in Europe to accelerated 5G rollouts in Central Asia, operators are expanding infrastructure to keep travellers connected worldwide.
Veon Acquires Uzbekistan Operator Perfectum to Accelerate 5G Deployment
Mobile operator Veon has agreed a deal to acquire Uzbekistan telecommunications provider Perfectum for around $207 million. The acquisition is intended to boost Veon's spectrum holdings and accelerate 5G network deployment across the country.
Why it matters: Travellers visiting Uzbekistan can expect improved network performance and broader 5G availability as infrastructure upgrades progress.
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Source: Mobile World Live
European Operators Plan Joint Bid for Direct-to-Device Satellite Spectrum
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefonica, and Vodafone Group have signed a letter of intent to explore a joint spectrum bid for Mobile Satellite Services. The collaboration aims to advance direct-to-device satellite connectivity across Europe.
Why it matters: This initiative could eventually enable travellers in Europe to maintain mobile connectivity in remote areas without terrestrial cellular coverage.
Planning a trip?
Source: Mobile World Live
Spain Requires Mandatory 400 Prefix for All Commercial Telemarketing Calls
Effective from Saturday 17 October, businesses operating in Spain must conduct commercial calls using nine-digit numbers starting with the 400 prefix. The mandate ensures that promotional calls are easily identifiable to phone users.
Why it matters: Visitors using local Spanish mobile numbers or roaming connections can immediately identify and screen incoming telemarketing calls.
Planning a trip?
Source: Mobile World Live
Ericsson Expands Network Tech Partnerships with Singtel and Telstra
Telecoms vendor Ericsson has announced extended partnerships with Singapore's Singtel and Australia's Telstra. The agreements focus on developing advanced network technologies and increasing network automation.
Why it matters: Travellers using mobile networks in Australia and Singapore may experience enhanced connection stability as automated network systems are rolled out.
Planning a trip?
Source: Mobile World Live
Saudi Arabia's stc Group Targets AI-Native Core Network by 2030
Saudi telecommunications operator stc Group has announced plans to integrate artificial intelligence directly into its core infrastructure. The group aims to transition to fully AI-native network operations by 2030.
Why it matters: Long-term infrastructure enhancements aim to improve network efficiency and service quality for travellers in Saudi Arabia.
Planning a trip?
Source: Mobile World Live
Nokia and SoftBank Partner for 2027 AI-RAN Field Trial in Japan
Nokia and Japanese mobile operator SoftBank Corp have agreed to conduct a field trial of AI-RAN technology under live commercial traffic conditions in 2027. The project will test and validate AI-driven radio access network performance.
Why it matters: Future visitors to Japan may benefit from more responsive and optimized mobile data networks as AI technology is deployed in commercial cell sites.
Planning a trip?
Source: Mobile World Live
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Travel information disclaimer: passport, visa and entry requirements change frequently and vary by nationality, route and purpose of travel. Everything published here is general guidance only and is not legal or immigration advice. Always verify current requirements with the official government sources for your citizenship and your destination before booking and before travel.