Ericsson CEO: Media plays increased role in the networked society

Ericsson President and CEO Hans Vestberg today urged consumer’s mental shift for demanding broadband access and increased role of the cloud, social media and the internet in spreading information for the audience at the Abu Dhabi Media Summit

 “There has been a mental shift among consumers during recent years. We all expect to have access to everything, everywhere. There has been talk about this for quite some time, but now it no longer talk – it is reality. 10 years ago we were thrilled when the internet connection worked. Now we get upset if it does not work. We want broadband everywhere and as applications, content and media moves into the cloud and the performance of the networks becomes extraordinary important” said Hans Vestberg.

Vestberg also highlighted how the cloud and mobility changes the game.  “The cloud brings down the cost for starting up new businesses. It costs less to test an idea in the cloud than it did in a closed IT environment. This will make it possible for more people to try their ideas and drive innovation around the world. As a user you get better services. The online music services in the cloud is a good example. You can either buy a CD, or a music file in a online music store for €10 or you can spend the same amount and get access to the world’s music library for 30 days without using memory space in your computer or carrying a piece of plastic. This has rapidly changed the game in the media industry”, Vestberg said.

Hans Vestberg: “Real-time applications that are social, mobile and built in the cloud will provide new, fresh approaches to today’s needs and cater to innovation across all sectors of society. It is here where the magic can really happen. It will change the public sector services and education, integrating into critical infrastructure like smart grids and intelligent road traffic

“The world is changing around us as we speak, and right now this is very evident here in the Middle East. When people get access to communication they can share, spread and discuss opinions inside and outside a country. Today SMS, MMS, email, Facebook, Twitter and other social media are used as information channels. Communications and internet enables this and prevents isolation of people in countries all over the world.” Vestberg concluded.