In a vein similar to many other smartphone manufacturers, Samsung is also attempting to get the early bird advantage by adapting and introducing 5G technology, which is the next logical step along the telecom industry. Along the same, the South Koran company has acquired Barcelona-based network data analysis firm Zhilabs.
The acquisition comes on the heels of Samsung group’s commitment to simultaneously diversify and strengthen its core competencies. The group has decided to invest almost $22.23 billion in up and coming technologies such as artificial intelligence, 5G, auto components components, and biopharmaceuticals.
The acquisition of Zhilabs is expected to boost Samsung’s connected devices and 5G push. The Barcelona based firm was established in 2008, and since then, has been providing over 50 clients with network condition, performance, and data traffic analysis. Most of its clients are telecom services, and the company users cutting edge artificial intelligence to power its services. Samsung hopes that this acquisition will strengthen its own network capabilities, and help in its transition to 5G.
Meanwhile, Zhilabs will continue operating as an independent entity with its own board. Samsung’s deep coffers combined with Zhilabs early start and robust technology, could very well give the former an edge over competition. This is even more important in the context of the fact that the business domains the South Korean company is currently expanding in, all rely heavily on data. Home automation, connected cars, and IoT all stand to benefit from faster network connectivity.
Speaking on the topic, Youngky Kim, president and head of networks business at Samsung said:
5G will enable unprecedented services attributed to the generation of exponential data traffic, for which automated and intelligent network analytics tools are vital. The acquisition of Zhilabs will help Samsung meet these demands to assure each subscriber receives the best possible servic
Commenting on the acquisition, Zhilabs CEO Joan Raventós said:
5G technology will disrupt the communications landscape for the better, but it will only be successful if the quality of the networks transferring the information can be measured and improved to provide a best-in-class experience.
The cost of the acquisition remained undisclosed, however, Samsung said that it will continue exploring new avenues of investments and partnerships.
