Tech firms discuss connectivity

Big Dallas-Fort Worth technology employers including AT&T, Verizon and Ericsson explained the opportunities and challenges associated with the future of connectivity at the 2015 Telecommunications Industry Association’s Network of the Future Conference in Dallas.

Here are some highlights from a couple of the sessions.

The Internet of Things

  • AT&T is focused on new software innovations that will help technology take care of consumers in the future. For example, it’s Cargo View with FlightSafe tracks assets as they are being shipped in real-time. Similarly, AT&T is working with companies like Emerson to create connected ovens that will automatically get menu updates and on health care initiatives to provide remote patient monitoring. It’s also teamed up with IBM and Mueller Water Products to develop new solutions to help cities save water. Its Plano Foundry is specifically focused on the Internet of Things.
  • Verizon is working on shifting its company’s focus to becoming to a software-centric network. The company has teamed up with Alcatel-Lucent, Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Juniper Networks and Nokia Networks to develop the software-defined network. But the company is doing more than just transitioning its network from hardware- to software-centric; its encouraging the industry to follow suit.

FCC on the future of regulation

  • The incentive spectrum auction, which is slated for next year, is one way the FCC is continuing to look for efficiencies to make more spectrum available.
  • The FCC is also working on improving the management of its operations to keep up with the pace of the industry. Previously, the commission used to take two weeks to get an order out after a vote compared to the 72 hours it takes today. This has caused then number of licenses that have gone through the FCC to rise 37 percent.
  • Because of the uncertainty with the new regulations passed by the FCC,Verizon and AT&T remain skeptical about the future. In May, the industry filed for a stay, which is still pending. AT&T has been clear: its main concern is how Title II will affect its operations, mainly because Title II was written for a different era. The companies are hoping through Congress, the industry and the FCC can reach a resolution.
Dallas Business Journal
Friday, June 12, 2015
Danielle Abril
Tech firms discuss connectivity
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