New security business unit set for 2017 launch
German telecoms operator Deutsche Telekom is planning to create a new business unit dubbed “Telekom Security” focused on security solutions.
The operator said Telekom Security products will be marketed under the “Magenta Security” brand beginning in mid-2016. The products are set to include a cloud-based solution for fixed networks, a solution for smartphones and a plug-and-play network-encryption solution for small- and mid-sized enterprises.
“The central idea behind all of these solutions is that we need to make security easy to use and easy to understand,” explained Ferri Abolhassan, director of T-System’s IT Solutions. “All products will thus be tested in light of this key idea. In short, we want to make life a little easier for our customers.”
The Telekom Security division is set to be established on April 1, and the new organization will officially launch its operations as a business unit on Jan. 1, 2017. The unit will consolidate the security departments from DT’s different units, with plans to strengthen its own internal security by capitalizing on the resulting synergies.
Saudi Telecom to take majority control of Viva Kuwait
In other EMEA news, Saudi Telecom said it will purchase a further 25.8% stake of Kuwaiti mobile operator Viva for $424 million. The move will allow Saudi Telecom to take majority control of Viva following the close of a voluntary tender offer period for the Kuwaiti firm’s shares.
Following the offer, STC’s stake in Viva Kuwait will climb to 51.8%. In December 2015, STC received approval from the Kuwaiti Capital Markets Authority for the buyout of 74% of Viva’s total outstanding shares at a price of 1 Kuwaiti dinar ($3.30) per share.
In Kuwait, Viva competes with Zain and Ooredoo Kuwait. According to Viva’s latest financial report, the carrier ended the third quarter of 2015 with 2.41 million subscribers and 31% market share. Viva initially launched commercial LTE services in late 2011 using spectrum in the 1800 MHz band. In 2015, the telco launched LTE-Advanced services.
The Kuwaiti government holds 24% of Viva through different governmental agencies.
