Nokia-Zayo AI network, Trans-Caspian cable, CelcomDigi spectrum deal top telecom news
Nokia and Zayo are working on an IP and optical network design to connect distributed AI inference infrastructure across data centers and computing sites. Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan have inaugurated a roughly 380-kilometer Trans-Caspian submarine cable designed for at least 400 Tbps. CelcomDigi paid RM381.75 million for additional 2600 MHz and 900 MHz spectrum in Malaysia.
Nokia and Zayo are shaping an IP-and-optical blueprint for linking AI inference sites spread across data centers and other computing locations. Nokia reported quarterly sales growth of 43% in IP Networks and 18% in Optical Networks; contract value, route length and rollout timing were not released.
Kazakhtelecom and AzerTelecom opened a submarine link between Aktau and Sumgait on Oct. 15, 2026, through CaspiLink. The roughly 380-km system is designed for at least 400 Tbps and forms part of Digital Silk Way. Separately, CelcomDigi paid RM381.75 million for 2×20 MHz at 2600 MHz and 2×5 MHz at 900 MHz, pending formal issuance.
The developments could affect people and businesses that depend on cloud and AI services, cross-border data links, and mobile coverage. Faster distributed AI connections may influence service responsiveness for users of data-heavy applications, while the new Caspian route may add redundancy for regional connectivity. CelcomDigi’s extra spectrum could support capacity and indoor coverage improvements for Malaysian subscribers, though benefits depend on deployment and regulatory completion.