Reliance Communications and China Telecom have opened the first direct terrestrial optical cable between China and India. The new cable, initially lit at 20Gbps, runs through the mountainous terrain of the Nathula Pass between Yadong, Tibet, and Siliguri in northeast India.
Nokia’s head of finance, strategy and strategic sourcing, Robert Andersson, is to leave the group executive board as he takes on a new role as head of the corporate alliances and business development from October 1. The post includes responsibility for company-wide strategic partnerships and alliances, including the recently announced cooperation with Microsoft.
Sirius XM Radio has released a dock which lets iPhone users listen to premium satellite radio programming. The €84 (US$120) XM SkyDock turns Apple Inc's iPhone or iPod Touch into a satellite radio receiver, powered by a car cigarette lighter and will go on sale in the next few months.
China Telecom has contracted Alcatel-Lucent to install and maintain an IP/MPLS backbone across ten Chinese provinces. The contract is part of a $700 million framework agreement between the companies.
Orange is reportedly in negotiations to buy online advertising firm Unanimis. The acquisition follows the mobile carrier’ decision last month to merge its sales team with Blyk and acquire its customers.
Nokia has created a Solutions unit which will launch on October 1, headed by Alberto Torres. Torres, currently head of the devices category management unit, will also join the executive board.
Apple has poached Lastminute.com MD and CMO Simon Thompson, who will head up Apple’s online store for the Europe, Middle East and Africa. Thompson replaces Neil Stevens, who has left to head Skype’s global consumer business.