Verizon Enterprise Solutions has joined forces with Actifio to launch a new cloud backup service using the copy data virtualization company’s technology platform. 

The service will support customers using virtualized infrastructures – including a combination of colocation, hosting, off-premises servers and other public clouds – to enable a unified hybrid cloud environment where data is easy to manage, access and protect.

Ericsson and China Unicom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on next-generation networks.

The two companies aim to accelerate the development of next-generation network standardization and the maturity of network infrastructure, to establish cross-industry ecosystems and to foster innovation for new business.

Under the terms of the MoU, Ericsson and China Unicom will cooperate on network architecture, 5G, cloud and the Internet of Things (IoT), including next-generation network architecture for fixed mobile convergence; 5G standardization, research into key technologies and joint testing; studies of network visualization and 5G network slicing; joint promotion of software-defined networking (SDN) projects in standardization groups and SDN solution verification; mobile cellular IoT network end-to-end solutions and services; and China Unicom’s ‘Focus Strategy’, commercial network evolution solution and low-cost coverage solution deployment and practice.

T-Mobile activated its 700 MHz extended range LTE service to the Rochester, N.Y. area. The Un-carrier also opened two new retail stores in the area – at Webster and Eastview Malls.

T-Mobile also announced it will carry the new HTC 10 starting May 18. The device will be offered for $0 down and $28.34 over 24 months or $679.99 retail.

TowerCo announced today the sale of 253 towers and 95 other assets to Grain Infrastructure II, L.P. of Sarasota, Fla. for $244M. The sale marks the third portfolio of towers and assets sold by TowerCo since 2004.