Innovations such as 5G networks, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have been driving a significant transformation in the telecommunications landscape.
While enabling providers to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences, these advancements are also prompting telecom operators to evolve into technology companies (techco) to remain competitive and meet the increasing demand for digital solutions.
Leading fiber broadband and technology provider Converge ICT Solutions Inc. is among these companies that’s currently in acceleration mode on its technology adoption to gain an edge amid its fast-evolving landscape.
Speaking at the recent ZTE 5G Summit and User Congress 2024 in Istanbul, Turkey, Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy explained that the company is constantly innovating as it leads the way in transforming connectivity and digital solutions for the Philippines.
He said Converge is taking a synergized approach in digital transformation which focuses on leveraging cloud computing and multi-edge data centers, following the establishment of its national digital highway and international network.
“What makes Converge well-equipped to leap into future technologies is our digital infrastructure. We have laid out over 700,000 kilometers of total fiber assets with 8 million ports deployed. Our international backbone is one of the biggest in the Philippines. Currently, we have eight international links and have points of presence in Hongkong, Singapore, Taiwan, Japan, and the US. We have also invested in the Bifrost and SEA-H2X (South East Asia-Hainan-Hong Kong Express) cable systems, both operational by 2025. Because of our world-class network, Converge can leap into the future especially now that we are entering the exciting Age of Intelligence,” Uy said.
Building on its cutting-edge all-optical network, Uy stressed that Converge embraces network transformation through SDN (software-defined network), and making bold investments in areas like IDC (internet data center), AI (Artificial Intelligence), and intelligent computing.
Converge also utilizes AI and automation through its Network Intelligence and Automation Platform (NIAP), which features centralized fault management capabilities for faster detection, prediction, and resolution of network issues. Uy noted that the implementation of AI and automation has led to significant improvements across various performance metrics.
Regarding its digital infrastructure, Converge is expanding its data centers with the construction of two facilities – one in Caloocan and another in Pampanga – boasting a combined capacity of 1,500 racks.
“Part and parcel of this strategy in building data capacity in the centers is our venture into cloud solutions. We are looking at partnerships with global tech players in anticipation of developing software and cloud solutions, which we hope we can offer to enterprise customers as well as for our own use,” Uy added.
Converge has been partnering with global technology companies to bring world-class innovations to the Philippines. Previously, the company announced its collaboration with Nasdaq-listed Ribbon Communications Inc. to enhance its fiber network capacity from 800 Gigabits per second (Gbps) to 1.2 Terabits per second (Tbps) per channel within the network, offering thrice the needed capacity for hyperscale applications. The company also signed a cooperation agreement with Super Micro Computer Inc. to develop AI-powered, green data centers in the country.
The Company has also tapped another Nasdaq-listed firm Infinera as its submarine line terminal equipment vendor for its fiber pairs in the Bifrost cable system, deploying the latest technologies that will improve capacity-reach while significantly reducing the cost per bit, power consumption, and footprint of coherent optical transport.
With its world-class connectivity and digital infrastructure in place, Uy added that Converge is poised to provide solutions across various sectors, positioning itself as an enabler of digital services beyond connectivity.
Soon, the company will venture into meeting the content and entertainment needs of its subscribers by developing solutions for cloud gaming, over-the-top (OTT) streaming, and even enhancing public services.
“We provide solutions for all – residential, small and medium-sized businesses, large enterprises and the public sector. No matter where they are or their economic status, we will leave no one behind,” Uy stated.
