Orange, a telecommunications operator, and Google Cloud has partnered to build the former’s IT infrastructure and the development of future cloud services, in particular edge computing.
The agreement is part of Orange’s Engage 2025 plan, to drive its internal transformation through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and data in order to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
The collaboration will also pave the way for the development of new advanced cloud, edge computing and cybersecurity services that will open up business opportunities for both Google Cloud and Orange.
In addition, Orange and Google Cloud have agreed to jointly create an Innovation Lab and a Center of Excellence. The Innovation Lab will enable new industry solution development based on data and AI within the broader framework of the evolving 5G and edge computing ecosystem.
Meanwhile, The Center of Excellence will provide Google Cloud support for Orange France and other Orange affiliates as they engage in their cloud transformation. The center will provide training in data, AI and cloud services for several thousand Orange employees.
Commenting on the partnership, Stéphane Richard, Chairman and CEO of Orange said,
“Orange is a pioneer of digital transformation and is pleased to partner with Google to accelerate its data and AI transformation and continue towards a better service for its customers. Google has been a long term partner of Orange and, as Google is eager to invest in Europe – and especially in France – to develop new datacenters, this is the perfect time to work on new services and opportunities in French and European markets.”
Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet said,
“The strength of Orange’s network, combined with Google Cloud’s platform, will help pave the way for new advanced cloud and edge computing services for the telecommunications industry in Europe. We look forward to working together with Orange to bring new services and applications to customers and businesses alike, while also continuing to grow our support for European enterprises in their digital transformation journeys.”
The partnership will benefit consumers and businesses across Europe by bringing powerful cloud-computing capabilities to the edge of the network, such as in retail, gaming, and other industries.
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