The Telecom AI Platform collaboration between Jio Platforms Limited (JPL), AMD, Cisco, and Nokia revealed at last month’s Mobile World Congress 2025 may represent a significant shift in how telecom networks evolve in coming years.

The partnership focuses on developing an open AI framework for network operations, and comes as service providers worldwide face mounting pressure to improve efficiency and create new revenue streams.

Announced on March 3, the alliance brings together expertise across RAN, routing, AI data centres, security, and telecom infrastructure to create what the companies describe as a “central intelligence layer” for telecom and digital services. The multi-domain intelligence framework aims to integrate AI and automation in all network operations, with Jio serving as the first implementation case.

“We are building a multimodal, multi-domain orchestrated workflow platform […] for the telecom industry,” said Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio. He highlighted the platform’s potential to transform networks into “self-optimising, customer-aware ecosystems.”

Technical foundations and AI

What sets the Telecom AI Platform apart is its technological approach. The platform will be LLM-agnostic and use open APIs, using multiple forms of artificial intelligence including agentic AI, general and domain-specific LLMs, Small Language Models (SLMs), and non-GenAI machine learning techniques.

AMD’s chair and CEO Lisa Su heralded “more secure, efficient, and scalable networks,” made possible through the platform, which uses Cisco’s Agile Services Networking and Data Centre Networking, plus Nokia’s capabilities in RAN, Core, fixed broadband, and optical transport.

India first, then global expansion

The Open Telecom AI Platform’s first customer, Jio, describes a “replicable reference architecture and deployable solution for the broader global service provider industry.”

The company hopes to position India as a front-runner in AI-driven telecom innovation. The timing of the project is significant, as telecom operators worldwide face increasing pressure to enhance network performance and offer new services beyond those of traditional telecom infrastructure.

“The initiative goes beyond automation – it’s about enabling AI-driven, autonomous networks that adapt in real-time, enhance user experiences, and create new service and revenue opportunities across the digital ecosystem,” Oommen said.

Real-world applications and benefits

Industry analysts suggest the Telecom AI Platform could drive significant improvements in several key areas:

1. Network security: Enhanced threat detection and prevention through AI-driven analysis across network layers
2. Operational efficiency: Reduced total cost of ownership through automation and predictive maintenance
3. Self-healing networks: Autonomous identification and resolution of network issues before they impact service
4. Revenue generation: Creation of new AI-enabled services and applications for enterprise and consumer segments

Potential timeline and global impact

While specific deployment timelines weren’t disclosed in the announcement, the companies indicated that development is actively underway. The platform’s open architecture design suggests its impact could extend far beyond Jio’s network in India.

The Telecom AI Platform represents a significant step toward what industry experts call “cognitive networks” – telecommunications infrastructure with embedded intelligence that can learn, adapt, and evolve autonomously. For global telecom operators watching this development, the platform could provide a blueprint for integration that addresses their most pressing challenges: reducing operational costs, enhancing security posture, improving customer experience, and developing new revenue streams.

As telecom networks continue their evolution toward 6G and beyond, initiatives like this Telecom AI Platform may well determine which operators thrive in the future – and which countries will lead the next wave of telecommunications innovation.

The post Jio’s open telecom AI platform: four tech giants forge India-led network revolution appeared first on TechWire Asia.

Honor is committing $10 billion over the next five years to drive the AI transformation of its devices, intending to transition from a smartphone manufacturer to an AI-focused technology company.

CEO James Li Jian introduced the company’s “Alpha” initiative in Barcelona ahead of MWC 2025, describing a strategy for integrating AI across smartphones, tablets, wearables, and PCs. He emphasised the importance of industry collaboration, urging partners to share AI capabilities and support a more open AI ecosystem.

“This includes the industry becoming truly open, enabling seamless collaboration across different operating systems,” Li said, underscoring Honor’s goal of building an AI-powered multi-device experience.

Honor expands software support for Magic series

As part of its broader strategy, Honor is extending software support for its Magic series devices, providing seven years of major Android updates and security patches. The announcement follows Qualcomm’s decision to offer eight years of software support for its latest Snapdragon 8 and 7 series chipsets.

The extended update policy places Honor among the few global brands offering long-term software support, ensuring that Magic series users receive at least six major Android updates. The company states that this initiative aligns with its sustainability efforts, aiming to reduce e-waste by encouraging consumers to keep their devices for longer.

Honor says the move aligns with the EU’s Circular Economy and Ecodesign Regulation, which promotes longer product life cycles and environmental sustainability.

Honor’s AI push and market challenges

Honor has been working to integrate AI across its devices, recently incorporating DeepSeek’s R1 model into its Yoyo virtual assistant and search engine for smartphones and laptops.

The company has also formed alliances with big Chinese tech companies, such as Alibaba, Tencent, and ByteDance, to improve AI capabilities in its devices. Internationally, Honor collaborates with Google to integrate Gemini AI models into its devices.

Once a Huawei subsidiary, Honor was sold in 2020 to a consortium of buyers following US sanctions that limited Huawei’s access to key components. Honor continues to operate independently since then, but the Chinese smartphone market is becoming increasingly competitive.

According to IDC, Honor smartphone shipments in China declined 14.9% year on year in Q4 2023. The company’s market share dropped from 16.8% to 13.7%, leaving it fifth behind Apple, Vivo, Huawei, and Xiaomi.

Global expansion and growing market presence

While facing challenges in China, Honor has expanded in other markets. Shipments in the Middle East increased by 67% last year, reaching 3.2 million units, according to Canalys.

The company has also gained ground in Western Europe, surpassing Samsung Electronics to become the top foldable handset maker in Q2 2023, according to Counterpoint Research.

Honor’s global expansion efforts are ongoing, with the firm announcing plans to launch more than 30 products in Indonesia in 2025 as part of a larger strategy to enhance its presence in Southeast Asia.

Long-term vision for AI and sustainability

Honor’s focus on AI-driven devices and long-term software support complies with its goal of building a multi-device AI ecosystem. By providing longer software support, the company intends to extend the usability of its products and contribute to sustainability efforts.

As the battle for AI-driven smartphones heats up, Honor’s ability to differentiate itself through device longevity, AI-powered features, and international expansion will be critical to its growth strategy.

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The possibility of a forced ByteDance TikTok sale is real today as the US Supreme Court considers the Chinese tech giant’s last-ditch effort to prevent a mandated divestiture or shutdown of its US operations by January 19, 2025.

The Beijing-based tech powerhouse faces unprecedented challenges as it confronts American legislation that could force the first-ever sale of a central Chinese social media platform in the US. According to Bloomberg‘s analysis, the stakes are exceptionally high for China’s tech sector, as the case could set a precedent for how Western nations handle Chinese-owned digital platforms.

Legal challenges and Beijing’s position

Chinese authorities have taken a firm stance against what they view as forced technology transfers under the guise of national security concerns. The position significantly complicates ByteDance’s options, as any potential sale would likely require Beijing’s approval.

The Chinese government’s warning about potential retaliatory measures against US companies underscores the broader implications for Asian tech firms operating globally.

The US Supreme Court will hear TikTok’s challenge today, though Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Matthew Schettenhelm estimates only a 30% chance of success. This relatively low probability raises concerns among Asian tech investors about the precedent it might set for other Chinese companies operating in Western markets.

Investment and valuation implications

A potential ByteDance TikTok sale could command a price tag of $40-50 billion, making it one of the most significant forced divestitures in tech history. The valuation reflects TikTok’s considerable market penetration in the US, where approximately 170 million Americans use the platform.

The company has invested heavily in addressing US concerns, including over $2 billion in Project Texas, its data security initiative. Previous potential buyers, including Microsoft Corp. and Oracle, have explored acquisition possibilities, but no clear frontrunner emerged who could both afford the purchase and navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

The uncertainty has created ripples across Asian markets, where investors closely monitor the impact on regional tech valuations. For ByteDance, losing the US market would significantly impact its global expansion strategy.

While the company maintains a strong presence across Asia and other regions, the US market represents a crucial advertising revenue and innovation source. The potential ban could particularly affect TikTok Shop, the company’s e-commerce initiative that has seen remarkable success in Southeast Asian markets and was planned for aggressive US expansion in 2024.

Political complexities and international relations

The situation is complicated by President-elect Trump’s unexpected opposition to the ban, reversing his previous stance. While potentially beneficial for ByteDance, his political shift creates uncertainty in Washington and Beijing. The Chinese tech community is watching, as this could influence future US-China tech relations.

Several of Trump’s proposed cabinet members, including Secretary of State nominee Marco Rubio, have strongly advocated the ban, creating additional layers of complexity in the political landscape. The internal US political discord has caught the attention of Asian governments and tech firms, who see it as indicative of Chinese companies’ challenges in Western markets.

Market implications for Asian tech

The outcome of this legal battle could reshape how Asian tech companies, particularly Chinese firms, approach international expansion. If ByteDance is forced to sell TikTok’s US operations, it might prompt other Asian tech giants to reconsider their global strategies, particularly in Western markets where national security concerns could impact their operations.

The DC Circuit Court of Appeals’ December ruling upheld the law’s constitutionality and sent shockwaves through Asia’s tech sector. The court’s acceptance of US government concerns about Chinese data access and propaganda risks could set precedents affecting other Chinese tech companies operating internationally.

Alternative scenarios and future outlook

While a complete US exit would be significant, TikTok’s billion-plus global user base, predominantly in Asia, could help cushion the blow. The platform’s strong presence in markets like Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea provides a robust foundation for continued growth, even without US operations.

The Supreme Court’s decision, expected before January 19, will be closely watched by tech companies and investors across Asia. As Bloomberg reports, while alternative scenarios exist – including potential regulatory compromises – the outcome could fundamentally alter how Chinese tech companies navigate international markets.

For ByteDance and the broader Asian tech sector, this case represents more than just TikTok’s fate in the US market. It could establish new precedents for how Asian tech companies navigate increasingly complex international regulations and security concerns, potentially reshaping the global digital landscape for years.

The post Can ByteDance escape a forced TikTok sale? What’s at stake for Asian tech appeared first on TechWire Asia.

Following the ban on Temu in Indonesia in October 2024, the Chinese e-commerce sensation’s meteoric rise has hit a regulatory wall in Southeast Asia. The platform, known for its low prices and aggressive marketing, faces mounting resistance from regional regulators determined to protect domestic markets.

The latest setback came from Indonesia, the region’s largest economy, where authorities ordered Temu’s removal from app stores in October 2024. The decision, after the platform’s registration was rejected earlier this year, marks a decisive shift in how Southeast Asian nations are responding to the influx of Chinese digital retail giants, prioritising local merchant protection over unrestricted market access.

Temu’s journey in Southeast Asia tells a compelling story of ambitious expansion meeting regulatory reality. Since its launch in 2022, the platform has successfully disrupted US and European markets. The company then set its sights on Southeast Asia’s burgeoning digital economy. The company began its regional push through the Philippines and Malaysia in 2023 before expanding into Thailand, Brunei, and Vietnam in early 2024.

But the platform’s signature strategy of rock-bottom prices and massive advertising spend has sparked regional regulators’ concerns. Indonesia’s Trade Ministry views Temu’s business model as potentially destructive to its 64 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

The country’s response goes beyond just targeting Temu – it has implemented broader measures, including a ban on e-commerce transactions through social media platforms and increased taxation on cross-border digital retail. Vietnam has followed suit, threatening to ban Temu and fellow Chinese e-commerce player SHEIN by the end of November 2024.

Vietnamese authorities cite the platforms’ lack of proper business registration and operational approvals, highlighting the region’s growing scrutiny of unauthorised e-commerce operations. The pushback comes as Southeast Asia’s digital retail market reaches new heights of revenue. 

According to research from Google, Temasek Holdings Pte, and Bain & Co., online spending will rise about 15% this year to $263 billion in the region. The burgeoning middle class with increased disposable income is helping fuel online shopping and e-commerce growth. The massive market potential explains Temu’s aggressive expansion strategy, despite the regulatory headwinds it’s encountering.

Indonesia’s regulatory response has been particularly comprehensive. Beyond the Temu ban, its crackdown on social commerce forced TikTok Shop to acquire a stake in the struggling local platform Goto to maintain its presence in the market. The move demonstrates Indonesia’s commitment to protecting its digital retail ecosystem while ensuring foreign platforms contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

For Temu, whose parent company PDD Holdings (formerly Pinduoduo) has operated successfully in China since 2015, the Southeast Asian regulations present a new challenge. Unlike its relatively smooth expansion in Western markets, the platform must now navigate a complex web of protectionist policies designed to shield local businesses from what regulators view as potentially predatory pricing practices.

The resistance to Temu’s expansion reflects a broader trend in Southeast Asian digital commerce regulation. Countries are increasingly implementing measures to ensure foreign platforms contribute to, rather than disrupt, local economic development. These include:

• Mandatory local business registration,
• Strict tax compliance requirements,
• Consumer protection regulations,
• Data localisation rules,
• Minimum pricing guidelines.

As Southeast Asia’s digital economy continues to evolve, the outcome of Temu’s regulatory challenges could set important precedents for how the region manages foreign e-commerce platforms. The question remains whether Temu can adapt its business model to meet local requirements while maintaining the competitive pricing that fueled its global growth.

For now, Southeast Asian nations appear committed to protecting their domestic digital retail ecosystems, even if it means turning away major global players. Their stance could reshape how international e-commerce platforms approach the region’s promising but increasingly regulated market.

The post Can Chinese giant Temu crack Southeast Asia’s protective wall? appeared first on TechWire Asia.

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry has said that Google’s Pixel phones can’t be bought by Indonesians from domestic retailers because the US company does not ensure 40% of their ‘content’ comes from Indonesia. Content can comprise firmware or some form of investment in the local population, as well as the physical components of a phone. Spokesperson Ministry Febri Hendri Antoni Arief said, “The local content rule and related policies are made for fairness for all investors that invest in Indonesia, and for creating added value and deepening the industry structure here.”

The most recent ban follows on from a similar limit on sales of Apple’s iPhone 16 placed in late October this year. Both bans also apply to phones used by tourists and visitors to the country.

Apple iPhone and Google Pixel ban

Apple had promised to invest $109 million in local infrastructure, including educational initiatives, but to date has only committed $95 million. According to Statista, $109 million is accrued in revenue by the Cupertino, California-based company roughly every ten hours, with the required shortfall of $14 million taking about an hour and a quarter’s global income.

Apple Academies – Apple’s choice of Indonesian investment – train students in the use of development tools and methods used to produce software for the company’s devices that run iOS, macOS, tvOS and iPadOS.

Companies wishing to sell their consumer tech devices have to seek certification from the Indonesian government, having proved that they are ploughing money into the local economy. How that investment is manifest is agreed between the Indonesian authorities and the company in question.

Korea’s Samsung and China’s Xiaomi have created manufacturing and assembly plants in Indonesia, and currently, Samsung holds 16.5% of the Indonesian handset market. Mi phones from Xiaomi comprise 18.4%, according to statistics from Counterpoint.

As part of the same survey, Counterpoint’s senior analyst, Febriman Abdillah, stated that there is particular demand in Indonesia for mid-range phones ($200-$399) at present, a bracket that excludes Google and Apple’s offerings other than as luxury items.

The Indonesian government implements its embargoes by means of withholding IMEI certifications for new handsets. That has the effect of making phones impossible to use with a domestic carrier for data, calls or texts. Phones could still operate as wi-fi-only devices – potentially an option for tourists entering Indonesia with a new device. Given the strictures in place at present, however, the government’s edicts have effectively stopped all sales to the domestic market.

Both Apple and Google can still qualify for the necessary certifications to re-open trade in the country, but at the time of writing, neither company had commented on the developing situation. Apple’s Tim Cook visited Indonesia in April 2024 as part of the negotiations over Apple’s inbound investment, but the company’s shortfall means that it, like Google, exists in a state of limbo with regards handset sales. Google’s ban comes just days after that affecting Apple, showing that the Indonesian government is sticking to the letter of its edicts, even if US technology companies are not.

The post Indonesia blocks sales of latest Pixel and iPhone models appeared first on TechWire Asia.

The US Department of Commerce is said to be investigating claims that TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) has helped Chinese company Huawei make 5G chips, such as those found in the company’s latest Apple-killer Mate 60 phone.

Although a formal probe by the DoC has yet to be announced, sources close to the issue have stated in The Information that TSMC acted in contravention of 5G export controls in allowing Huawei either access to chip designs, helped Huawei in some way design its own 5G semiconductors, or sold chips to Huawei via intermediary companies.

TSMC has denied any wrongdoing, issuing a statement that it is “committed to complying with laws and regulations, including export controls.”

TSMC manufacturing in Arizona

Any proven claims against TSMC could jeopardise the company’s receipt of funding it’s received from the US as part of the package awarded April this year – some $6.6 billion – from direct CHIPS Act funding. Although headquartered in Taiwan, TSMC operates fabrication facilities in Arizona that make chips for AMD, ARM, MediaTek, Nvidia, Apple, and Qualcomm, among others. TSMC has invested more than $65 billion in the Arizona facilities.

Although the largest shareholder of TSMC remains the Taiwanese government, most of the company is owned by international investors. Highly punitive sanctions taken against the company would severely impact the bottom lines of many of the world’s biggest technology companies, and potentially put the brakes on the current supply of chips used in AI applications, communications, servers, communications infrastructure, and consumer devices.

The CHIPS Act funding given to the company was designed to promote TSMC chip manufacturing for US companies, allowing them to better compete against non-domestic offerings. According to NIST, the Department of Commerce implemented conditions for the granting of CHIPS funding that “seek to prevent CHIPS funds from being used to directly or indirectly benefit foreign countries of concern.”

China is considered by the US to be a country of concern, alongside so-called pariah states such as Iran and Russia. Rather than threatening US borders with massed troops or funding terrorist training camps, China’s perceived crimes seem to be a certain success in free market trade and popularity among consumers enamoured of the country’s cheaper-than-average exports by companies like Huawei.

Huawei hardware and technology already underpins much of the world’s telecoms networks, but has seen a rapid downturn in profitability since imposition of trade sanctions led by the US from 2021. In 2020, the company overtook Samsung as the world’s largest manufacturer of smartphones, a position that has since slipped since the sale of the Honor brand to the Shenzen regional government in China.

CHIPS Act funding in jeopardy

The embargo on the use of TSMC technology that might benefit a ‘country of concern’ puts the company’s CHIPS funding from the US into doubt, although the company has worked hard to establish fabrication facilities elsewhere in the world, a move much encouraged by governments keen not to repeat the impact of supply chain problems caused by the COVID epidemic.

In addition to the embargo on selling directly to foreign competition (in this case, Huawei) companies in receipt of US state funding are expected to demonstrate due diligence that any sales will not end up in proscribed hands via intermediary companies. Sources close to the issue have said that the US is investigating the methods employed by TSMC to vet its customers.

If found in breach of rules, TSMC could be liable to pay back the funds it’s received under the CHIPS Act, although as the second largest recipient of such funds, the invocation of any ‘clawback’ rule could jeopardise the CHIPS Act scheme and make investors in the chip sector jittery enough to relocate their interests to areas less subject to political whimsy.

“If we have any reason to believe there are potential issues, we will take prompt action to ensure compliance, including conducting investigations and proactively communicating with relevant parties,” a statement from TSMC said.

The post TSMC under suspicion of supplying ‘country of concern’ appeared first on TechWire Asia.

In an age where traditional wire transfers and steep fees once hindered international money transfers, the landscape of financial transactions has undergone a remarkable transformation. With the emergence of borderless banking platforms such as Wise, sending money across borders has been redefined. As this fintech trailblazer continues to disrupt the industry, it’s imperative to unravel the narrative behind Wise and understand its profound impact on travel and financial experiences in Malaysia and across the globe.

Born out of a desire to challenge the status quo of traditional banking and tackle the opaque and often exorbitant fees associated with cross-border transactions, Wise has emerged as a disruptive force in the digital finance arena. Its innovative platform has empowered millions of individuals and businesses worldwide to navigate the complexities of international finance with unparalleled transparency and ease.

Through an insightful interview with Lim Paik Wan, Country Manager of Wise Malaysia, we delve into how the company harnesses the power of technology to reshape the travel and savings landscape in Malaysia and beyond.

The digital renaissance has brought transformative shifts in travel. How do you see technology shaping every aspect of travel beyond being a mere tool to smoothen the process?

Technology has now made travel more accessible and has allowed consumers to personalize their holidays, as people now take to blogs and social media platforms for inspiration. Additionally, consumers are now accustomed to instant and seamless experiences, with everything readily available through a few taps on their smartphones. This seamless digital connectivity has also changed how people make transactions for their travels. 

In years past, travelers needed to exchange cash physically and were usually required to pay for most meals and excursions in cash. Today, contactless payment options are offered almost everywhere, making it easier and safer for consumers to make international transactions. 

Even how consumers plan their travels has changed, with hotel bookings and flights done through travel apps. However, consumers still face challenges as the world transitions to a largely cashless society. A common one is a general unfamiliarity with international transaction fees, causing them to spend more than anticipated or budgeted for. Issues like these have led fintech providers to create solutions to make these processes smoother and more manageable. 

How do Wise’s digital cards and contactless payment solutions like Apple Pay and Google Pay enhance travel safety?

Today, contactless payment methods are widely accepted in many countries, lessening the burden of carrying large sums of cash. However, when used internationally, most traditional credit or debit cards tend to come with additional fees and hidden costs. Providers like Wise offer users the ability to hold money in over 40 currencies and make transactions at the mid-market exchange rate with no markups, helping travelers save money on international transactions. 

This relieves users of having multiple traditional cards, where they would have to bear the cost of foreign transaction fees and interest fees. Wise’s smart technology automatically converts the currencies you hold in your account for you, which have the lowest conversion fee; the card even allows users to withdraw money from ATMs with low fees while traveling.

Another great thing is that Wise users can start spending immediately with its digital cards, available instantly upon request in the app. Users can get up to 3 digital cards with different card details for an extra layer of protection. These digital cards can be deleted anytime, so customers can generate new card details when they need them. 

The cards can also be added to Apple Pay and Google Pay — these contactless payment methods are powered by NFC technology, which is generally more secure. Additional features on the account allow users to track their spending in real-time, ensuring smoother user and travel experiences. 

How has the pandemic impacted Wise’s services, particularly regarding international travel and cross-border transactions?

Digital adoption during the pandemic created the expectation for instant and real-time processes and a trend of contactless payment options. This has dramatically impacted the Malaysian market, as e-wallets and mobile payments are now expected payment options that businesses should offer. Additionally, we found that Malaysians are spending more time online, adopting more

international lifestyles, and traveling more frequently, leading to an increase in cross-border spending and shopping. 

These trends suggest a need for efficient cross-border payment solutions that offer faster, cheaper, and transparent international payments. Wise addresses these needs with its multi-currency account, empowering Malaysian consumers to seamlessly navigate global payments and lifestyles with no hidden fees and complete transparency. 

The recent launch of Wise on Apple Pay and Google Pay in Malaysia is part of our commitment to making international transactions more convenient and accessible for customers. A few other ways Wise is providing more convenience is by offering our users the ability to send money to popular e-wallets in the region, including Touch’nGo in Malaysia, GrabPay in the Philippines, and ShopeePay in Indonesia — being able to offer multiple money movement options makes moving money across borders even more convenient.

How does Wise promote financial literacy and awareness among users regarding currency exchange and international transactions?

A crucial part of our mission has been advocating for transparency in foreign exchange fees, empowering people with knowledge and insight into their transactions. This is reflected in our services and is why we support transparent and fair cross-border transactions. With Wise, all fees are transparently displayed to customers when they set up a transaction. 

Customers pay a single upfront fee, and the exchange rate they get is the one you see on Google with no markups or hidden charges. People also gain visibility into what’s happening to their money from start to finish when making cross-border payments, which includes the actual total cost to make the payment.

Wise also offers price comparison tools in the app, which allows our customers to compare the exchange rates and fees across a range of currency routes to make better decisions when choosing their preferred provider.

What upcoming advancements can users anticipate from Wise, and how will they improve travel and financial experiences?

Not to give too much away, but we are always looking to bring globally available features to Malaysia, such as Wise Business and Wise Platform. Wise Business accounts are for businesses that want to grow and operate internationally, making it easier to manage their finances across borders, such as paying overseas vendors and employees or receiving funds from clients.

Wise Platform is our infrastructure offering, which enables financial institutions and businesses to incorporate our global payment network into their platforms. As Wise operates globally, we’re always looking to see what would benefit Malaysian customers and work to solve their pain points. 

Lastly, in the rapidly changing landscape of digital finance and travel, how does Wise stay adaptive and responsive to its diverse user base’s dynamic needs and preferences?

At Wise, we constantly listen to our customers, and our goal continues to be making Wise as convenient, low-cost, fast, and transparent as possible. As more Malaysians look for cross-border opportunities, it’s vital that our users can use Wise to broaden their lifestyles globally.

Looking ahead to 2024 and beyond, we’ve got a number of exciting things coming up in our product roadmap to improve the speed, convenience, and cost of cross-border payments for our customers around the world.

The post Wise: Revolutionizing travel and finance in Malaysia appeared first on TechWire Asia.

As the age-old adage goes, “There’s a first time for everything,” and tech titan Apple Inc., ranked second among the world’s most valuable companies, being slapped with a whopping €1.84 billion fine by European Union antitrust regulators over its App Store regulations marks an unprecedented twist. It’s a scenario Apple undoubtedly sought to sidestep with all its might (as you would), signaling a pivotal moment in the company’s storied history of navigating regulatory scrutiny.

“For a decade, Apple abused its dominant position in the market for the distribution of music streaming apps through the App Store,” Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, declared. “It did so by restricting developers from informing consumers about alternative, cheaper music services outside the Apple ecosystem,” she added.

That, according to Vestager, is illegal under EU antitrust rules. “So today we have fined Apple over €1.8 billion,” she concluded on March 4, 2024. The Commission concluded on Monday that the fine of over €1.8 billion is proportionate to Apple’s global revenues and is necessary to achieve deterrence.

A decade-long parade of Apple App Store antics

Apple’s actions may have made iPhone and iPad users pay more for music streaming for nearly ten years. Apple charged developers high fees, causing them to raise prices for users. At the heart of this conflict lies Spotify’s grievance towards Apple, stemming from what it perceives as unfair treatment in Apple’s music streaming policies.

Spotify, the world’s largest music streaming service, has long accused Apple of anti-competitive behavior, particularly regarding its App Store rules. Apple’s requirement for developers to use its in-app payment system is central to Spotify’s complaint. Apple takes a hefty commission of up to 30% on subscriptions and purchases made within the app.

This commission structure, Spotify argues, puts it at a disadvantage compared to Apple Music, Apple’s streaming service, which does not face the same financial burden. Spotify contends that the high commission fees force it to either raise subscription prices for users who subscribe through the App Store or accept lower margins, undermining its ability to compete effectively.

The feud between Spotify and Apple Music eventually spilled into the regulatory arena, with Spotify filing formal complaints with antitrust authorities in the US and the European Union. These complaints allege that Apple’s conduct violates competition laws and constitutes an abuse of its dominant position in the music streaming market.

For its part, Apple has defended its App Store policies as necessary to ensure a safe and secure user experience and support the platform’s ongoing development and maintenance. The tech giant maintains that its commission fees are standard industry practice and that it applies the same rules to all developers, including its services.

From the European Commission’s point of view, Apple’s anti-steering provisions led to non-monetary harm in the form of a degraded user experience: iOS users either had to engage in a cumbersome search before they found their way to relevant offers outside the app or they never subscribed to any service because they did not find the right one on their own.

The investigation started in June 2020, when the European Commission launched an inquiry into Apple’s App Store regulations affecting app developers. This inquiry intensified in April 2021 when the Commission issued Apple a Statement of Objections, prompting a response from Apple in September of the same year. In a twist, by February 2023, the Commission had replaced the original statement with a revised version, to which Apple responded in May 2023. 

The heart of the matter lies in Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and Article 54 of the European Economic Area Agreement, which prohibits the abuse of market dominance. While market dominance is not illegal, companies must wield it responsibly, refraining from actions that stifle competition. The upside is that fines levied for antitrust violations flow into the EU’s general budget, easing taxpayers’ burdens. 

Despite Brexit, the EU retains jurisdiction over ongoing cases initiated pre-Brexit, with the UK set to receive reimbursement for its share of any fines collected by the EU. “In setting the level of the fine, the Commission considered the duration and gravity of the infringement as well as Apple’s total turnover and market capitalization. It also factored in that Apple submitted incorrect information in the framework of the administrative procedure,” the Commission said.

What will Apple do next?

Apple criticized the EU decision, declaring its intention to challenge it in court. On Monday, the US tech giant swiftly announced its plans to appeal the penalty, marking Brussels’s first antitrust fine ever imposed on the company. “The decision was reached despite the Commission’s failure to uncover any credible evidence of consumer harm, and ignores the realities of a market that is thriving, competitive, and growing fast,” the company said.

Apple argued that Spotify does not pay any commission to Apple because it sells its subscriptions on its website rather than through Apple’s App Store. “The primary advocate for this decision — and the biggest beneficiary — is Spotify, a company based in Stockholm, Sweden. Spotify has the largest music streaming app in the world and has met with the European Commission more than 65 times during this investigation,” it said.

The post Apple slapped with €1.8b fine for App Store music rules appeared first on TechWire Asia.

In a move set to redefine Malaysia’s digital landscape, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has forged strategic partnerships with two of the country’s leading telecommunications giants, Maxis and CelcomDigi, at the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC 2024) in Barcelona. The announcements mark a significant step forward in Malaysia’s local technological innovation, as the collaboration promises to unleash the potential of generative AI and 5G connectivity like never before.

By integrating generative AI into its suite of cloud services, AWS has been empowering businesses to extract valuable insights from data, enhance customer interactions, and drive innovation at scale. But perhaps most exciting of all is the potential for generative AI to democratize creativity and innovation. By providing businesses access to powerful AI tools and resources, AWS is leveling the playing field and enabling organizations of all sizes to compete globally.

Multiple Amazon AWS announcements at MWC demonstrate how telecom and technology markets are merging. Cloud/hyperscaler companies are crtical parts of telecom service providers' infrastructure #mwc24 pic.twitter.com/9sjRo3dTE8

— Ian Fogg (@ianfogg42) February 26, 2024

AWS & CelcomDigi at MWC 2024

By harnessing the power of AWS’s cloud capabilities, CelcomDigi aims to co-create innovative generative AI solutions tailored to the telecommunications industry. CelcomDigi will be tapping into Amazon Bedrock’s cutting-edge technology to revolutionize its operations. This fully managed service provides access to top-tier AI models and ensures security, privacy, and responsible AI practices. 

Through its Innovation Centre, CelcomDigi is establishing an AI Sandbox, offering its employees a playground to explore and implement generative AI solutions. This initiative isn’t just about experimentation but driving innovation across various departments, including HR, customer service, legal, and finance. 

With the combined expertise of CelcomDigi’s IT engineers and AWS AI specialists, the company is poised to unlock the full potential of generative AI and integrate it seamlessly into its operational platforms. CelcomDigi and AWS are also teaming up to provide AI training for CelcomDigi staff. 

“CelcomDigi is already integrating its knowledge-based AI chatbot with Amazon Bedrock, crafting a comprehensive platform for accessing organizational and HR data. This innovative approach streamlines workflows enhances employee experiences, and fosters a culture of continuous learning and development,” AWS said following the signing of a Letter of Collaboration at MWC 2024.

CelcomDigi is also teaming up with Amazon’s Bedrock, diving into linguistic diversity, to develop Bahasa Melayu language algorithms. Using Amazon Titan and Anthropic Claude models equipped with cutting-edge deep learning algorithms, CelcomDigi aims to create innovative solutions such as chatbots tailored to its culturally diverse customer base. 

But the collaboration continues beyond there. CelcomDigi and AWS are trying to revolutionize the Malaysian business landscape with personalized generative AI applications spanning various industries and consumer experiences.

“CelcomDigi’s collaboration with AWS is a great example of how telcos can enhance end-to-end operational efficiency and redefine the user experience for both employees and customers with the power of generative AI technology,” Pete Murray, Country Manager, Malaysia at AWS, said in a press release. Murray reckons with AWS, CelcomDigi can drive new use cases at scale with AI-optimized infrastructure and the flexibility to choose fit-for-purpose foundational models through Amazon Bedrock. 

“This collaboration also accelerates the delivery of innovative AI services to Malaysian enterprises. We are excited to support CelcomDigi in advancing its 5G and AI transformation with our upcoming AWS Region in Malaysia and our joint commitment to develop AI talent in the country,” he added. 

AWS and Maxis at MWC 2024

As for Maxis and AWS, the two took the stage at MWC 2024 to share the announcement that they are joining forces to bring cutting-edge 5G and generative AI innovations to the forefront of business. Targeting critical sectors like retail, manufacturing, logistics, and financial services, this collaboration hopes to ignite innovation, helping Malaysian enterprises to thrive in the digital age.

By integrating advanced AI technologies into real-world use cases, Maxis will offer tailored solutions designed to adapt and evolve alongside the ever-changing needs of businesses.

Central to this collaboration is the integration of generative AI and language models tailored to support the Bahasa Melayu language. This strategic move accelerates the digital transformation journey for Malaysian businesses.

The collaboration cements Maxis’ status in the realm of cloud services. As Malaysia’s first telco to achieve AWS Advanced Tier Services Partner status, Maxis is leading the charge in delivering unparalleled connectivity and cloud solutions to enterprises nationwide.

“We are pleased to expand our collaboration with AWS to bring next-generation digital capabilities to Malaysian businesses. As Malaysia’s leading integrated telecommunications provider, we look forward to enabling our customers with the power of 5G and Generative AI,” Maxis CEO Goh Seow Eng said.

Since forging their partnership in 2019, Maxis and AWS have been at the forefront of driving technological innovation in Malaysia. Through strategic collaborations and a shared vision for the future, Maxis continues to leverage the power of partnerships to meet the diverse digital needs of enterprises, ensuring they stay ahead in today’s fast-paced digital landscape. 

The post AWS strikes AI collaboration deals with Malaysian telcos at MWC 2024 appeared first on TechWire Asia.

In the tumultuous landscape of the technology industry, a profound clash has dominated headlines for several years: the ongoing feud between two giants, Spotify and Apple.

At the core of the dispute lies a narrative of fierce competition, regulatory scrutiny in the European Union (EU), and the quest for equity in music streaming. While Spotify has emerged as a trailblazer in the online music domain, hooking audiences worldwide with its extensive catalog and tailored playlists, beneath the surface lies a palpable tension with Apple Inc.

The crux of Spotify’s grievance lies in what it perceives as Apple’s monopolistic grip over its App Store ecosystem. In Spotify’s eyes, Apple’s stringent rules and significant fees impose undue burdens on competitors, stifling innovation and limiting consumer choice. Central to the discord is the “Apple tax” issue – a term coined to describe the hefty commission fees levied by Apple on in-app purchases made through its platform. 

For Spotify, this means navigating a landscape where every note played comes with a price that threatens to undermine its competitive edge and erode its bottom line. Spotify contends that Apple’s control extends beyond financial matters, permeating into the very fabric of user experience. Allegations of preferential treatment for Apple’s music streaming service, Apple Music, have fueled accusations of anti-competitive behavior and sparked an outcry within the industry.

At the helm of Spotify stands CEO Daniel Ek, who is leading the charge against what he sees as Apple’s stranglehold on the music streaming industry. “The company charges an excessive 30% tax and imposes prohibitive rules on developers, many of whom helped build iOS into what it is today. And increasingly, Apple considers these developers among its fiercest challengers,” he wrote in an October 2023 opinion piece for the UK’s extreme right-wing newspaper, The Daily Mail.

Frustrated by what he sees as Apple’s anti-competitive practices, Ek has not shied away from taking his concerns public. Spotify filed a complaint with the European Commission in December 2023, alleging that Apple’s practices violate EU competition law. The legal battle has since underscored the high stakes involved, with neither company backing down.

Ek claims he envisions a future where innovation flourishes in a fair and open marketplace, where consumers have genuine choice, and competition breeds excellence. That being so, his commitment to holding Apple accountable for its actions is crucial to him.

It’s worth noting of course that Spotify itself has recently been the subject of revelations about its questionably small remuneration policies for the artists it hosts on its platform, so Ek’s shining city on a digital hill is built on the proviso that Spotify comes out on top.

What is the outcome for Apple and Spotify in the EU?

Before the latest complaint filed in December 2023, Spotify lodged an official antitrust grievance with the European Commission nearly four years ago, citing Apple’s anti-competitive practices that impeded innovation and detrimentally affected developers and consumers globally, especially in Europe. The situation has remained essentially unchanged since, according to the streaming giant.

Regrettably, Spotify noted that the absence of definitive regulatory intervention has encouraged Apple to persist in its questionable conduct. Despite a growing chorus of advocates clamoring for action, regulators have been slow to act decisively, leaving a palpable frustration among stakeholders.

Before the complaint was filed two months ago, Spotify and seven other companies and organizations in sectors including publishing, audio streaming, dating, communications, and marketplaces sent a joint letter in January 2023 to call for meaningful regulatory action against Apple’s long-standing anti-competitive European practices.

After much back and forth between regulators and the tech giants, on February 19, 2024, the bloc announced its intention to fine Apple for allegedly breaching EU law concerning access to its music streaming services. This historic penalty marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle between regulatory authorities and Silicon Valley giants, underscoring the EU’s commitment to enforce fair competition practices in the digital realm.

The EU’s decision to impose its first-ever fine on Apple also sends a clear message to the tech industry: compliance with EU regulations is non-negotiable. Reports indicated that this development follows a protracted investigation by EU authorities, drawing on insights from five individuals intimately familiar with the case. Their direct knowledge sheds light on the intricate details of the long-running probe, revealing the meticulous scrutiny of Apple’s business practices.

“In a closed-door meeting between EU officials and Apple in June last year, the tech firm told regulators it had already addressed any possible competition concerns arising from Spotify’s complaint,” a report by Bloomberg reads. For Apple, although accustomed to navigating complex regulatory landscapes, this fine represents a significant setback. 

When contacted for comment, Bloomberg also noted that Apple referred to a previous statement, which said that the “App Store has helped Spotify become the top music streaming service across Europe.” That translates directly into Apple  vigorously challenging the fine, using its formidable legal and financial resources to defend its practices. Nevertheless, the EU’s unwavering stance underscores the imperative of upholding fair competition principles to safeguard consumer choice and innovation within the digital ecosystem – however big and formidable the company held to be in breach. 

This landmark decision has broader implications for the tech industry. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, this landmark fine against Apple is a poignant reminder of the regulatory challenges confronting industry titans. With the EU leading the charge in enforcing antitrust laws, the repercussions of this decision will surely reverberate across the global tech industry, shaping the future of digital competition and regulation for years to come.

The post Brussels slaps Apple with historic fine for EU law violation appeared first on TechWire Asia.