- Aduna is a new global venture, providing developers with simplified access to network APIs.
- Former Vonage COO Anthony Bartolo takes the helm as CEO to lead this telecom innovation.
What happened: Aduna emerges to unify telecoms and simplify global API access
The telecom industry’s latest venture, Aduna, launched in September 2024, aims to revolutionise how developers interact with network APIs. Formed by major telecom operators like Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Bharti Airtel, and T-Mobile, Aduna promises to offer unified global API access.
This platform is designed to enable developers to create network-agnostic applications, streamlining functionality across all networks.
Aduna’s name, derived from the Latin word for “united as one,” underscores its ambition to foster greater collaboration in a fragmented telecom space. Anthony Bartolo, previously COO at Vonage and instrumental in Avaya’s SaaS transformation, will assume the CEO role.
Under his leadership, Vonage experienced an 11-fold increase in recurring revenue. Bartolo’s extensive cross-industry expertise positions him as the ideal leader to propel Aduna’s goals.
Ericsson holds a 50% stake in the venture, with the telecom partners sharing the remainder. The initiative is still pending regulatory approval but expects further expansions with companies such as Three Sweden considering joining.
Also read: TM Forum appoints Guy Lupo to lead AI & Data innovation mission
Also read: Government waives bank guarantees, freeing capital for telcos
Why it’s important
Aduna represents a pivotal shift in the telecom sector’s approach to innovation and collaboration. By streamlining global access to programmable network functions, it empowers enterprises and developers to build scalable, cross-network applications.
This can unlock new business models, revenue streams, and improved customer experiences.
Anthony Bartolo’s leadership is particularly notable given his track record in growing tech ventures and transforming businesses into SaaS leaders. With industry giants backing Aduna, the venture is positioned to reshape the competitive landscape, challenging traditional network infrastructures while opening the door for further partnerships and expansion.
Aduna’s API ecosystem also aligns with the industry’s push towards open standards and cross-platform compatibility, reinforcing its potential to drive broader industry change.
