Vodafone Idea, India's third-largest telecom operator, is planning to raise Rs 150 billion or $1.8 billion through debt to pay off dues and invest in 5G and 4G networks. The funds will be used to compete with Jio and Airtel in coverage. Vi has raised Rs 18,000 crore through India's largest follow-on public offer and Rs 2,000 crore through an equity sale to an Aditya Birla Group entity. The company has reached out to banks such as the State Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, and Bank of Baroda, along with other private sector lenders. Apple posted record revenues in India during the March 2024 quarter, despite a 4% YoY dip in global revenues. The company's business in India saw double-digit growth, with Tim Cook, CEO, highlighting the market's importance. Apple opened two flagship stores in Mumbai and Saket, Delhi, in 2023, indicating its future in the Indian market. The company also set six-month records in other developing countries. Apple is planning to scale iPhone production in India by shifting production capacity from China to India and opening more stores in cities like Bengaluru. A 39 million public-private partnership (PPP) between broadband provider Kinetic and Colquitt Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) is set to provide high-speed fiber internet to 16,000 locations in Lowndes County, Georgia. Construction has begun and is expected to provide multi-gig internet speeds to eligible homes and businesses. The project is funded in part by the Georgia State Fiscal Recovery Fund and the county, with Kinetic investing 17.6 million of private capital. The broadband build is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, bringing gigabit speeds to the region. Japanese mobile network operator Rakuten Mobile is testing its 700 MHz spectrum, known as the "platinum band," to launch base station operations. The company plans to gradually deploy platinum band services using its existing network of base stations, starting with urban areas with high user and traffic volumes. Since the full-scale launch of mobile services in April 2020, Rakuten Mobile has expanded coverage through the build-out of 4G and 5G base stations and roaming agreements with its roaming partner. Rakuten Mobile, Rakuten Symphony, and South Korean mobile network operator Stage X have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a comprehensive framework for strategic collaboration in technology and business exchange. MTS Belarus is deploying its mobile communication infrastructure at the Minsk Metro's third line stations, providing 3G and 4G services. Work is underway to install a radiating cable, which will provide stable access to mobile internet and communication services. The cable will be connected to base stations' radio modules and special transceiver antennas will be installed on platforms, lobbies, and cash register halls. Data traffic on the existing infrastructure has reached over 330TB since the launch of the third line in November 2020. Smartphone usage has become increasingly prevalent, making it crucial to promote 'Smartphone Usage Etiquette'. Indian OTT telcos have focused on bundling benefits and cheap usage perks without educating users about proper usage. Two real-life incidents highlight the importance of proper usage behavior. On a Vande Bharat Express train, working professionals were seen watching loud audio videos without regard for fellow travellers. In a public setting, a lady with a child played loud videos for entertainment, which may not be acceptable for others in the same space. Smartphone usage in public places can cause inconvenience and privacy issues. People often use their phones inappropriately, such as ringing with annoying ringtones or receiving notifications at inappropriate times. It is essential to use headphones for audio and follow appropriate behavior. Smartphone etiquette should be followed at home, where people should be aware of their surroundings and follow basic rules. At work, phone usage should be decency in common spaces, with appropriate ring and message tone and settings. It is also important to be aware of the seriousness of projects, colleagues' calls, and meetings. In general, use headphones while listening to music, watching videos, or making video calls in a work environment.Workplace etiquette varies depending on the work setting and individual policies. Smartphone usage in public places is not strictly prohibited, but it is common sense to follow certain etiquette. Use headphones when listening to music, watching videos, or making video calls. Choose your profile based on the situation, answer calls in a quiet place, avoid discussing personal or professional topics in public spaces, and respect privacy when having private conversations. Avoid including others in photos or videos and seek permission if necessary. Social media and influencers have made these issues more prevalent, making public spaces more disruptive.