Vodafone signs billion-pound cloud and AI deal with Google - UKTN
Vodafone has announced a significant partnership with Google that aims to enhance its AI and cloud services for customers. The telecommunications company has revealed a 10-year collaboration with Google, which will involve the integration of Google Cloud’s advanced AI capabilities into Vodafone's TV set top boxes. Additionally, the partnership will leverage Google Cloud’s Vertex platform to develop machine learning models and AI applications using Google’s Gemini models.
One of the key aspects of the deal is the creation of a new cloud-native cybersecurity service that will utilize Google Cloud’s Security Operations platform. Vodafone will also offer Google cloud storage options to its customers as part of the agreement. This partnership signifies a deepening of Vodafone’s existing relationship with Google, which already provides analytics and marketing services through its Android operating system.
Enhanced Services for Customers
Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group chief executive, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Together, Vodafone and Google will put new AI-powered content and devices into the hands of millions of more consumers. Using these services, our customers can discover new ways to learn, create and communicate, as well as consume TV, on a scale we haven’t seen before.”
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, also shared his thoughts on the partnership, saying, “Our expanded partnership with Vodafone will help bring our most advanced AI products and services, including our Gemini models, to more people across Europe and Africa.”
Regulatory Challenges and Industry Impact
The announcement of the deal comes in the wake of regulatory scrutiny faced by Vodafone in the UK. The Competition and Markets Authority raised concerns about Vodafone’s proposed merger with rival Three, citing potential price increases for mobile customers and reduced service offerings. Despite the challenges, Vodafone and Three have emphasized the benefits of the merger in addressing issues within the mobile market.
In response to the regulatory hurdles, Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle highlighted the importance of investing in network infrastructure to stay competitive in the evolving technological landscape. She underscored the significance of advancements like AI and emphasized the need for robust networks to leverage such technologies effectively.
Overall, the partnership between Vodafone and Google represents a strategic move to enhance AI and cloud services for customers, while also navigating regulatory challenges in the telecommunications industry.
