Get the latest announcements from MEF Members across the mobile ecosystem globally in this weekly review of member news…
Mobile Identity: OTT Channels to Generate $2 Billion Globally by 2029, Threatening Operators’ Market Dominance
A new study by Juniper Research forecasts a 600% growth in revenue from one-time passwords (OTPs) sent via over-the-top (OTT) messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Viber over the next five years, rising from under $300 million in 2024. Mobile identity solutions, which use phone numbers for digital identity verification, have been largely driven by SMS. However, growing concerns over fraud in operator networks are pushing enterprises toward OTT channels, which offer end-to-end encryption and enhanced security. This shift challenges mobile operators’ dominance in the identity space and reflects changing enterprise preferences for secure and cost-effective authentication methods.
Research author Georgia Allen commented: “Unlike OTPs, which are susceptible to social engineering attacks, APIs provide robust authentication that is less vulnerable to such exploits. As operators launch these APIs, they must educate enterprises on these benefits, or risk losing authentication traffic to OTT channels.”
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Stacuity secures multi-million pound Series A investment led by Amigos Venture Capital to accelerate global expansion strategy
Stacuity, a software-as-a-service company transforming mobile connectivity, has closed a multi-million pound Series A funding round led by Amigos Venture Capital and other global investors. This investment reflects strong confidence in Stacuity’s innovative approach, particularly its focus on improving IoT and enterprise data services through its unique ‘Edge’ strategy. The funds will support the company’s global expansion, including growing its international team and accelerating the rollout of its managed edge network. This expansion aims to enhance local data control and autonomy for customers, reinforcing Stacuity’s position at the forefront of next-generation mobile connectivity solutions.
John Freeman, CEO of Stacuity, commented: “Securing this investment marks a pivotal moment for Stacuity. The support from Amigos Venture Capital and our other strategic investors enables us to take significant steps forward in reshaping the landscape of mobile connectivity. Our Edge strategy will deliver unprecedented control, flexibility, and efficiency for IoT and connectivity providers, cementing our role as a global leader in programmable network innovation.”
Amigos Venture Capital Managing Partner, Mattias Rejman, said: “We are delighted to lead this investment round for Stacuity. The team has demonstrated exceptional vision and technical capability, positioning the company at the forefront of next-generation telecoms innovation. We are excited to support their ambitious global expansion and play a part in shaping the future of mobile connectivity and IoT services.”
Twilio Announces Multi-Year Strategic Partnership with Microsoft to Accelerate Conversational AI Initiatives
Twilio has announced a multi-year strategic partnership with Microsoft to accelerate the adoption of conversational AI for customer engagement. Revealed at Twilio SIGNAL, the collaboration will empower Twilio’s 10 million developers and Microsoft’s extensive customer base to build scalable, data-driven conversational experiences. By combining Twilio’s strengths in communications, data, and AI with Microsoft Azure AI’s secure, enterprise-grade infrastructure, the partnership addresses key industry challenges such as data fragmentation, legacy integration, and scalability issues. Together, the companies aim to advance conversational AI solutions that transform digital interactions between businesses and consumers into more natural, responsive, and personalized experiences.
“Every interaction between a business and their customers is an opportunity to build loyalty and trust, and those interactions have been drastically improved by AI,” said Inbal Shani, Chief Product Officer at Twilio. “Conversational AI enhances customer engagement by delivering precision for our customers, and rich and dynamic experiences for their consumers.”
Syniverse Names Bob Chiodo as Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer
Syniverse has appointed Bob Chiodo as Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer. Previously serving as interim CRO and SVP of Sales for the Americas, Chiodo now leads the company’s go-to-market strategy across all sectors, including the public sector. His responsibilities span sales, marketing, customer success, pre-sales, professional services, and business development. With more than 30 years of experience in sales and operational leadership, Chiodo brings deep industry knowledge and a strong record of driving growth and customer satisfaction. Since joining Syniverse in 2019, he has played a key role in shaping the company’s strategic transformation.
“5G networks, the rise of RCS messaging, and the growing role of satellite technology are reshaping how mobile network operators and enterprises connect. Syniverse is positioned to lead that transformation,” said Andrew Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Syniverse. “Bob understands what our customers need as they adapt to these changes. He’s a proven sales leader who will continue to drive Syniverse’s growth across the industry.”
“Having worked alongside our cross-functional team for several years, I’ve seen firsthand how aligned execution and customer focus drive results,” Chiodo said. “Collectively, we strive to support our customers with innovation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to living the Syniverse values. I prioritize evolving, growing, and delivering for our global customers, many of whom I already know and look forward to working with more closely.”
Great Place to Work names Openmind Networks one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces in Tech™ 2025
Openmind Networks has been named one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces in Tech 2025 by Great Place to Work® Ireland. This recognition celebrates innovation, flexibility, and progressive workplace culture within Ireland’s tech sector. To qualify, companies must first earn Great Place to Work-Certified™ status through a rigorous evaluation process.
Headquartered in Dublin, Openmind Networks employs nearly 100 people—primarily in technical roles—and has been a key player in advancing mobile messaging since the early 2000s. With customers in over 50 countries, the company’s inclusion on the list highlights its commitment to both employee experience and global technology leadership.
“Being recognised as a Best Workplace in Tech means a great deal to us as we pursue the highest standards in telecoms software,” said Alex Duncan, CEO, Openmind Networks. “Our team shows the world what Ireland can achieve, helping some of the globe’s largest brands deliver over 2.7 billion text messages every day.” Alex Duncan, CEO, Openmind Networks
“In the highly competitive tech sector, a strong workplace culture is a true competitive advantage,” added Cathal Divilly, CEO, Great Place to Work Ireland. “The organisations on this list are strengthening their employer brand, attracting top talent and positioning themselves for long-term success. Congratulations to everyone recognised this year for setting a standard others aspire to follow.”
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Airtel and Google partner to offer Google One subscription to its Postpaid and Wi-Fi customers
Bharti Airtel has partnered with Google to offer its postpaid and Wi-Fi customers six months of complimentary access to 100 GB of Google One cloud storage. This initiative aims to alleviate the growing issue of limited device storage by providing users with ample space to back up photos, videos, documents, and WhatsApp chats. The storage can be shared with up to five additional people and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices, making it accessible to a wide range of Airtel users.
Siddharth Sharma, Director Marketing and CEO – Connected Homes, Bharti Airtel, said, “With smartphones becoming the main device for managing both personal and professional information, storage has become a significant concern for users. We are pleased to collaborate with Google to address this issue by providing our customers with dependable, secure and user-friendly storage solutions. This partnership will present an opportunity for millions of our postpaid, Wi-Fi customers allowing them access to a further 100 GB of storage.”
