Altobridge, a Tralee-based communications firm, has earned the Technology Pioneer distinction from the World Economic Forum for its innovative solutions that enhance connectivity in remote areas. The company has secured a major contract in Iraq and is recognized for its efficient lite-site technology. With strong ties to Ireland’s entrepreneurial community, Altobridge continues to address significant global connectivity challenges, reflecting the country’s growing influence in the tech sector.
Altobridge, a wireless communications firm based in Tralee, has been honored as a 2012 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. This prestigious designation is awarded to companies that spearhead significant technologies capable of impacting both business and society for the long term. Altobridge joins an elite roster of exemplars such as Google and Twitter, previously recognized for their innovative contributions to the industry.
The company boasts a diverse shareholder base including its employees, Intel Capital, the International Finance Corporation, and Enterprise Ireland. Previous Irish awardees include notable firms like Cicero Networks and entrepreneurs such as Raomal Perera, underscoring Ireland’s contribution to global technological advancements. Recently, Altobridge secured a substantial contract in Iraq, providing vital voice, broadband, and SMS services in partnership with Asiacell, a major telecom provider in the region.
Since its establishment in 2002, Altobridge has concentrated on addressing the pressing need for connectivity in previously underserved areas. Despite advancements by service providers and government initiatives, high operational costs have hindered spreading remote communications. Altobridge has effectively demonstrated that achieving a return on investment is possible in these challenging environments.
The company’s lite-site solution has emerged as the most efficient transmission option in the sector, consuming no bandwidth in idle mode, and only 4kbps during active calls. This innovation eliminates the need for backhaul by routing local calls at the base station. Additionally, the solar-powered approach, consuming only 90 watts on average, stands out as highly energy-efficient. Its breakthrough, Data-at-the-Edge, allows Altobridge to reduce mobile broadband costs while enhancing the user experience, facilitating connectivity in remote locations across various regions including Southeast Asia and Africa.
CEO Mike Fitzgerald highlighted the significant global connectivity gap, stating that nearly 25% of the population lacks access to basic telephony. He remarked that through research and development, the company has dismantled historical barriers that prevented mobile network operators from deploying effective and commercially viable solutions. Fitzgerald expressed gratitude for the recognition and eagerness to forge more partnerships within the forum.
Dr. Vincent Cunnane, CEO of Shannon Development, praised Altobridge’s achievement and noted that it reflects the innovative spirit of Kerry’s entrepreneurs. He emphasized the longstanding relationship between Altobridge and his agency, which has supported the company’s growth since its founding. Cunnane also acknowledged the important investment secured earlier that year from Intel’s private equity division and a World Bank unit.
Fitzgerald will represent Altobridge at the upcoming World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions 2011, to be held in Dalian, China, further showcasing the company’s innovative role in the tech industry. This recognition ultimately underscores Altobridge’s impact on global communications and its ongoing commitment to enhancing accessibility worldwide.
The World Economic Forum designates Technology Pioneers to recognize companies that are making significant advances in technology with the potential for long-term impact on global business and societal issues. Altobridge, as a firm focusing on improving connectivity in remote regions, exemplifies this mission through its innovative solutions that reduce operational costs and improve access to mobile communications in underserved communities. The firm’s recognition ties into Ireland’s growing reputation as a hub for technological entrepreneurship, with previous awardees paving the way for future innovations in the sector.
Altobridge’s recognition as a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum not only highlights its impactful innovations in connectivity but also reinforces Ireland’s stature in the global tech arena. The company’s commitment to enhancing mobile services in remote areas reflects a broader trend of using technology to solve pressing social issues. With ongoing support and strategic partnerships, Altobridge is poised to further its contributions to global communications and technology accessibility.
Original Source: www.siliconrepublic.com
