Latest news with #mobiledata
Reuters
2 days ago
- Business
- Reuters
Peak data growth is a quiet win for telcos
LONDON, June 2 (Reuters Breakingviews) - Companies usually rejoice when customers want more of what they're selling. In telecom land, though, meeting future demand typically requires massive upfront investments from the likes of Verizon (VZ.N), opens new tab and Vodafone (VOD.L), opens new tab, which haven't always earned an attractive financial return. The sector's CEOs may therefore be quietly happy that mobile-data growth seems to be falling – and apprehensive about the prospect of artificial intelligence eventually sending it spiralling again. It's been obvious for several years that fixed-line broadband demand has stopped rising as rapidly as it once did. According to research outfit Enders Analysis, internet traffic volume growth across most developed markets is now around 10% to 15% a year, compared with 30% or more before the pandemic. This deceleration reflects the fact that most rich-world households are by now already heavy users of streaming services like Netflix (NFLX.O), opens new tab and (AMZN.O), opens new tab Prime Video. In other words, the shift to internet-based TV was a one-off step-change, rather than an everlasting tailwind. Something similar now seems to be happening with mobile data. Enders' analysts reckon some European markets may have seen annual rates of increase in mobile-data demand as low as 5% in recent quarters, though there is significant variation between countries. Forecasts compiled by Analysys Mason, a consultancy, suggest the trend is playing out worldwide. It predicts that annual growth in global mobile-internet traffic will fall to 15% in the next few years, compared with 23% in 2023. That's a sharp comedown from 2018 levels, when volumes were roughly doubling each year according to the same consultancy. It's possible that many Westerners already have all the mobile data they need. There is only so much time in the day to watch Netflix or scroll social media sites like X. Practically everyone who wants a smartphone already has one. Slower demand growth may, counterintuitively, be a relief for telecom bosses and investors. The key reason is that past binges on spectrum and equipment, to meet rising data requirements, have often delivered poor returns. According to a 2023 report, opens new tab by professional-services firm PwC, mobile network operators made a 2% to 3% return on assets over the preceding five years – a period which spanned 5G and 4G-related capital expenditures. That's akin to a regulated utility asset, but without the comfort blanket of a monopolistic market and inflation-protected revenue. Another way to look at the problem is the return on invested capital (ROIC), usually calculated as post-tax operating profit divided by the cumulative cost of the assets a company uses to run its business. For major U.S. and European telcos, the average ROIC this year will be 7.3%, based on analyst estimates gathered by Visible Alpha. That's roughly in line with the sector's weighted average cost of capital, as calculated, opens new tab by New York University's Aswath Damodaran, implying that as a group the companies are not meaningfully creating any shareholder value. This is reflected in valuations: the same companies on average trade at a measly 7 times 2025 EBITDA. One hope is that peak data growth will change all that, by allowing the telcos to avoid a massive new round of value-destroying capex for the foreseeable future. That's roughly what Wall Street brokers expect right now: physical-asset investments will stagnate for major telcos over the coming years, according to Visible Alpha figures. The positive flipside of lower investment is that free cash flow, and therefore returns, should rise. The wildcard is AI. To date, most of the burden from large language models, from OpenAI and its ilk, has fallen on Big Tech-owned data centres, rather than consumer-facing 5G networks. That could all change if applications, like so-called AI agents, really take off. Imagine millions of Vodafone and T-Mobile (TMUS.O), opens new tab customers constantly running ChatGPT or Alphabet's (GOOGL.O), opens new tab Gemini app in the background, performing administrative tasks that a personal assistant would usually handle while also condensing and summarising emails and reports. Video, audio, and image-creation apps could be particularly data-intensive, necessitating more 5G and even 6G investments over time. It's also possible that autonomous vehicles, which require sensors and cameras to send information to the car's central computer instantaneously, could end up using 5G networks. As is stands, that's more of a risk than an inevitability for telcos. But it's worth getting prepared for such an eventuality. Telecom and broadband bosses, particularly in Europe, have moaned about having to handle all the extra Netflix-induced traffic without the streamers contributing anything towards the upkeep of the networks. AI could, eventually, cause a re-run of that debate. Follow @jenjohn_, opens new tab on X
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Virgin Media O2 issues warning as switch off could leave customers without internet
Virgin Media O2 has warned customers they may "experience a drop in call quality" or be left unable to use mobile data as its 3G switch off continues across the UK. The UK's major mobile providers, including EE and Vodafone, have gradually been axing all 3G services over the past few years. Virgin Media O2 is the latest provider to switch off its 3G network so it can focus on the "faster, more reliable and more energy-efficient" 4G and 5G networks. It's 3G network switch off began on April 2, with the city of Durham the first area affected. 📡 Virgin Media O2 begins its 3G switch-off this April in Durham, marking a key milestone in our network evolution. This move allows us to focus on faster, more reliable #4G and #5G services, delivering better connectivity for our customers. 🌐📱 Learn more here:… — Virgin Media O2 News (@VMO2News) January 13, 2025 The switch-off is also set to impact other mobile providers which use Virgin Media O2's network, including: Giffgaff Sky Mobile Tesco Mobile With the Virgin Media O2 switch off now underway, customers with 3G devices are being urged to upgrade or risk a drop in call quality and being left unable to access mobile data. In an email, seen by The Mirror, Virgin Media O2 said: "We recently got in touch to let you know we'll be turning off our 3G services. "This change has already started, and we'll be continuing the switch off across the country throughout 2025. "You may currently have a device that's not fully compatible with the UK's 4G or 5G network. "After the switch off, you could experience a drop in call quality and be unable to access mobile data, including the internet and messaging apps like WhatsApp." The next areas set to be impacted by Virgin Media O2's 3G switch off are: Norwich (July 16) Telford (July 16) Guildford (July 16) Torquay (August 4) 📡 We're continuing our 3G switch-off programme. Next up: Norwich, Telford, Guildford & Torquay. This move frees up spectrum for faster, more reliable #4G & #5G – keeping our customers better connected. 📱 Read more: — Virgin Media O2 News (@VMO2News) April 22, 2025 Virgin Media O2's Chief Technology Officer, Jeanie York, said: 'We're switching off our 3G network to focus our attention and investment on upgrading faster and more reliable 4G and 5G networks that will give our customers a better overall experience. 'While we know that the vast majority of our customers already have a 4G or 5G device and will not have to take any action, our priority is to provide support to those who need it. "That is why we are reaching out directly to customers who do not have a 4G or 5G handset, and calling those we know are vulnerable, to provide information about their next steps. "It is important these customers upgrade their handsets in order to continue using mobile data after 3G is switched off.' Any customers who don't upgrade to a 4G or 5G device before 3G is switched off in their area will still be able to make voice calls and send text messages, but will be unable to use mobile data. Customers with 3G devices will be unable to use the internet once the network is switched off. (Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire) Martin Lewis' Money Saving Expert (MSE) explains: "If you have a phone or Sim that only supports 3G, you'll effectively no longer be able to use the internet once it's fully switched off by your provider – you'll still technically be able to connect to the internet, but you'll struggle to do even basic tasks. "You'll still be able to make calls and send text messages over 2G, though the quality of the call will likely be a lot worse than it was on the 3G network." The 3G switch-off will only impact those customers with older devices and sim cards, ones that are unable to connect to the newer 4G or 5G networks. If you are unsure whether or not your device will lose mobile data access when Virgin Media O2's 3G network is switched off, don't worry; there is a way to check. Visit the Virgin Media O2 website and look at its list of devices that are not compatible with 4G and WiFi Calling. If your phone/sim is on that list, you will be impacted by the switch-off and will need to change devices before it happens. Devices on the list include: Apple iPhone iPhone 1 Generation iPhone 3G iPhone 3GS iPhone 4 iPhone 5S Samsung Samsung ZV60 Samsung Binou Samsung GT-C3592 Samsung BEAT S Samsung Galaxy Fame Samsung SLIDER Samsung Galaxy Ace 3 Sony Sony Ericsson WT13I Sony Ericsson W705 Sony Xperia Z2 Sony Xperia E LG LG Calisto LG Pop LG Prada LG New Chocolate LG G1600 Google Google Galaxy Nexus Google Nexus ONE Motorola Motorola MOTO E Motorola EM30 Motorola Motokey Social Motorola C118V RECOMMENDED READING: O2 offering more than £1000 for old mobiles and other devices - how to claim Nearly 9 million PlayStation owners could be owed more than £500 - are you one? Virgin Media customers told to check if they're entitled to a free upgrade Nokia Nokia 220 Nokia 106.1 Nokia Lumia 925 Nokia 2330 Classic For the full list of devices affected or any further information about Virgin Media O2's 3G network switch off, visit its website (a link to which can be found above).
The Sun
5 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Major network provider warns customers they will be left with NO mobile data unless they upgrade as service closes
A MAJOR UK mobile network is warning customers they will be left with no mobile data soon unless they upgrade their phone. Fortunately, there is a £100 voucher on offer to soften the blow. 2 O2 has already started switching off its legacy 3G network as part of a national effort by all the UK's providers. The firm's plan also affects other brands that rely on O2 's network infrastructure, including Tesco Mobile, GiffGaff and Sky Mobile. O2 started deactivating 3G in April in the city of Durham. The shake-up means anyone with an older phone only capable of handling 3G will no longer be able to use data when they're out and about. Calls, texts and going on the internet via Wi-Fi only will still be possible. As efforts ramp up, the company is warning more customers that will be affected. In an email seen by ISPreview, O2 says "you may experience a drop in call quality and be unable to access mobile data, including the internet and messaging apps like WhatsApp". It continues to warn that "upgrading your tariff won't be enough to keep you connected once the switch off happens. You need to upgrade to a compatible phone." But there is a £100 voucher towards a new phone being offered, so check your email for it or reach out to O2. The next areas where 3G will be switched off across the UK is Norwich, Telford, Guildford and Torquay. Norwich, Telford and Guildford will have the plug pulled on July 16, while Torquay's will change on August 4. The loss of 3G means more faster 4G and 5G services can be installed in their place. 3G NETWORK SWITCH OFF Mobile networks affected by O2's 3G switch off: -O2 - Tesco Mobile - Sky Mobile - GiffGaff Networks which have already switched off 3G: - Vodafone - Asda Mobile - Lebara - Talk Mobile - Voxi - EE - 1pMobile - Ecotalk - IQ Mobile - Lycamobile - Mozillion - RWG Mobile - Spusi - Talk Home - Utility Warehouse - Your Co-op - Three - iD Mobile, Smarty - Honest Mobile - Superdrug Is my phone affected? O2 is contacting people that are affected by the move. But the vast majority of people should be unaffected - if you've bought yours in the last 10 years or so it's probably safe 4G and 5G compatible. If you're unsure, there is a trick to check. Go into your phone's settings and search for Network Mode or Preferred Network. If you see 4G or 5G listed then you are in the clear. IS THE SWITCH OFF THAT BIG OF A DEAL? Analysis by Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun It's unclear exactly how many people will be affected by the 3G switch off. There wasn't much noise after Three, EE and Vodafone ended 3G. So, there will undoubtedly be some still using 3G-only phones but the numbers are probably very small. Just because it may be a small figure doesn't mean those people should be cast aside, especially if they're not very tech-savvy or vulnerable. So definitely get in contact with O2 (or GiffGaff and Tesco Mobile) if you need support.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
UCLOUDLINK GROUP INC. Announces Unaudited First Quarter 2025 Financial Results
HONG KONG, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UCLOUDLINK GROUP INC. ('UCLOUDLINK' or the 'Company') (NASDAQ: UCL), the world's first and leading mobile data traffic sharing marketplace, today announced its unaudited financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025. First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights Total revenues were US$18.7 million, representing an increase of 3.4% from US$18.1 million in the first quarter of 2024. Gross profit was US$9.7 million, representing a decrease of 3.1% from US$10.0 million in the first quarter of 2024. Loss from operations was US$0.5 million, compared to an income from operations of US$0.5 million in the first quarter of 2024. Net loss was US$0.6 million, compared to a net income of US$0.4 million in the first quarter of 2024. Adjusted net income (non-GAAP) was US$0.4 million, compared to US$1.3 million in the first quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP) was US$1.4 million, compared to US$1.7 million in the first quarter of 2024. First Quarter 2025 Operational Highlights Total data consumed in the first quarter through the Company's platform was 43,179 terabytes (6,711 terabytes procured by the Company and 36,468 terabytes procured by our business partners), representing a decrease of 0.1% from 43,208 terabytes in the first quarter of 2024. Average daily active terminals in the first quarter were 308,863 (17,803 owned by the Company and 291,060 not owned by the Company), representing a decrease of 0.3% from 309,906 in the first quarter of 2024. The average daily active terminals in the first quarter comprised 296,597 from GlocalMe mobile/fixed broadband business, 621 from GlocalMe Life business, 5,219 from GlocalMe SIM business and 6,426 from GlocalMe IoT business, compared to 308,375, 201, 829 and 501, respectively, in the first quarter of 2024. As a proportion of daily active terminals, 56.2% were from uCloudlink 1.0 international data connectivity services and 43.8% were from uCloudlink 2.0 local data connectivity services during the first quarter of 2025. Average daily data usage per terminal was 1.59 GB in March 2025. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had served 2,878 business partners in 63 countries and regions. The Company had 183 patents with 169 approved and 14 pending approval, while the pool of SIM cards was from 391 MNOs globally as of March 31, 2025. Executive Commentary Mr. Chaohui Chen, Director and Chief Executive Officer of UCLOUDLINK, commented, 'We kicked off 2025 with a solid performance as our expanding GlocalMe ecosystem continues to gain traction and build momentum. Total revenues during the quarter were US$18.7 million, in-line with guidance, representing an increase of 3.4% year-over-year. Our financial position remains solid, with adjusted net income of US$0.4 million and net cash inflow from operations of US$0.2 million. Our 1.0 international data connectivity services business continued to grow, with full-speed 5G network coverage increasing to 80 countries and regions, further expanding our market share and strengthening our leading market position.' 'A notable highlight during the quarter was the showcasing of our newest innovative solutions for people, Internet of Things (IoT) and pets at MWC Barcelona 2025. PetPhone, the world's first artificial intelligence (AI) powered smartphone for pets, offers fun pet interactions, community engagement, and improved safety and health monitoring with 6-tech global positioning. eSIM Trio represents a revolutionary leap in SIM technology by combining OTA SIM, eSIM, and CloudSIM technologies into a single seamless solution, eliminating the need for expensive international roaming while delivering reliable, high-speed connectivity across devices. Our CloudSIM Kit all-in-one IoT solution overcomes network congestion challenges by intelligently selecting and dynamically switching between full-speed 4G and 5G connections across multiple carriers globally. MeowGo G50 Max is our next-generation mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, with AI-driven Sky-to-Ground connectivity. These innovative solutions will drive growth and expand the visibility and exposure of our broader GlocalMe solutions with strong interest from consumers, global operators, enterprise customers, and business partners. We are currently in advanced commercial discussions with multiple major operators worldwide, with several partnerships expected to be finalized in the coming months. Each of these solutions will be commercially launched from May to June 2025 with scaled production expected to begin in the third quarter. Commercial application of our GlocalMe IoT solutions continues to scale as they are increasingly adopted by China's thriving automotive manufacturers for use in their infotainment systems. We also continue to develop industry-wide partnerships for their application in the security camera, dashboard camera, and other related high-growth sectors.' 'With our expanding product portfolio, deepening partnerships, application of AI, and accelerating adoption of our IoT solutions, we are confident in our ability to drive growth throughout the remainder of the year. We are making clear progress in scaling up our user base and diversifying our revenue streams to a mix of value-added services and mobile data traffic solutions. We believe these measures will better reflect the direction our business is headed in and provide investors with a clearer understanding of the strategic progress we are making in building a comprehensive global mobile data traffic sharing marketplace.' First Quarter 2025 Financial ResultsTotal Revenues were US$18.7 million, representing an increase of 3.4% from US$18.1 million in the same period of 2024. Revenues from services were US$14.2 million, representing an increase of 4.9% from US$13.5 million in the same period of 2024. This increase was primarily attributable to the increase in revenues from international data connectivity services. Revenues from data connectivity services were US$11.2 million, representing an increase of 4.7% from US$10.7 million in the same period of 2024. This increase was primarily attributable to an increase in revenues from international data connectivity services to US$9.7 million in the first quarter of 2025 from US$9.0 million in the same period of 2024, as a result of the continual recovery of international travel, which was partially offset by a decrease in revenues from local data connectivity services to US$1.5 million in the first quarter of 2025 from US$1.7 million in the same period of 2024. Revenues from PaaS and SaaS services were US$2.7 million, representing an increase of 2.8% from US$2.6 million in the same period of 2024. Revenues from sales of products were US$4.5 million, representing a decrease of 0.9% from US$4.6 million in the same period of 2024, primarily due to a decrease of US$0.9 million in sales of data related products, which was partially offset by an increase of US$0.9 million in sales of terminals. Geographic DistributionDuring the first quarter of 2025, as a percentage of our total revenues, Japan contributed 40.4%, Mainland China contributed 31.2%, North America contributed 12.9%, and other countries and regions contributed the remaining 15.5%, compared to 40.9%, 25.3%, 16.8% and 17.0%, respectively, in the first quarter of of revenues was US$9.0 million, representing an increase of 11.5% from US$8.1 million in the same period of 2024. This increase was attributable to the increase in cost of services, which was partially offset by the decrease in cost of products sold. Cost of services was US$6.1 million, representing an increase of 28.1% from US$4.7 million in the same period of 2024. This increase was mainly attributable to the increasing rental use of 5G Wi-Fi terminals for international data connectivity services in Mainland China. Cost of products sold was US$2.9 million, representing a decrease of 11.7% from US$3.4 million in the same period of gross profit was US$9.7 million, compared to US$10.0 million in the same period of 2024. Overall gross margin was 51.7% in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 55.2% in the same period of 2024. Gross profit on services was US$8.1 million, compared to US$8.8 million in the same period of 2024. Gross margin on services was 57.3% in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 65.0% in the same period of 2024. Gross profit on sales of products was US$1.6 million, compared to US$1.2 million in the same period of 2024. Gross margin on sales of products was 34.3% in the first quarter of 2025, compared to 26.2% in the same period of operating expenses were US$10.2 million, compared to US$9.0 million in the same period of 2024. Research and development expenses were US$1.4 million, representing a decrease of 5.3% from US$1.5 million in the same period of 2024. Sales and marketing expenses were US$5.7 million, representing an increase of 40.6% from US$4.1 million in the same period of 2024. This increase was primarily due to increases of US$0.8 million in promotion fees, US$0.3 million in service fees, US$0.2 million in employee benefit expenses and US$0.2 million in exhibition expenses. General and administrative expenses were US$3.1 million, representing a decrease of 7.3% from US$3.4 million in the same period of 2024. This decrease was primarily attributable to decreases of US$0.5 million in professional service fees, US$0.3 million in testing fees and US$0.1 million in share-based compensation expenses, which was partially offset by an increase of US$0.8 million in bad debt from operations was US$0.5 million, compared to an income from operations of US$0.5 million in the same period of EBITDA (Non-GAAP), which excludes the impact of share-based compensation, fair value gain/loss in other investments, share of profit/loss in equity method investment, net of tax, interest expense, income tax expenses and depreciation and amortization, was US$1.4 million, compared to US$1.7 million in the same period of interest expenses were US$0.05 million, compared to US$0.04 million in the same period of loss was US$0.6 million, compared to a net income of US$0.4 million in the same period of net income, which excludes the impact of share-based compensation, fair value gain/loss in other investments and share of profit/loss in equity method investment, net of tax, was US$0.4 million, compared to US$1.3 million in the same period of and diluted loss per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were US$0.02 in the first quarter of 2025, compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of US$0.01 in the same period of of March 31, 2025, the Company had cash and cash equivalents of US$31.1 million, compared to US$30.1 million as of December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to a net inflow of US$0.2 million from operations and proceeds of US$1.3 million from bank borrowings, which were partially offset by US$0.3 million in capital expenditure and repayments of US$0.3 million for bank was US$0.3 million compared to US$0.6 million in the same period of 2024. Business Outlook For the second quarter of 2025, UCLOUDLINK expects total revenues to be between US$23.0 million and US$25.0 million, representing an increase of 2.7% to 11.6% compared to the same period of 2024. The above outlook is based on current market conditions and reflects the Company's preliminary estimates of market and operating conditions and customer demand. Non-GAAP Financial Measures To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or GAAP, this press release presents, adjusted net income/(loss) and adjusted EBITDA, as supplemental measures to review and assess the Company's operating performance. The presentation of these non-GAAP financial measures is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Adjusted net income/(loss) is defined as net income/(loss) excluding share-based compensation, fair value gain/loss in other investments and share of profit/loss in equity method investment, net of tax. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income/(loss) excluding share-based compensation, fair value gain/loss in other investments, share of profit/loss in equity method investment, net of tax, interest expense, income tax expenses and depreciation and amortization. The Company believes that adjusted net income/(loss) and adjusted EBITDA help identify underlying trends in its business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of certain expenses that are included in income/(loss) from operations and net income/(loss). The Company believes that adjusted net income/(loss) and adjusted EBITDA provide useful information about its operating results, enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by its management in its financial and operational decision-making. The non-GAAP financial measures are not defined under U.S. GAAP and are not presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The non- GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools. One of the key limitations of using adjusted net income/(loss) and adjusted EBITDA is that they do not reflect all items of income and expense that affect the Company's operations. Share-based compensation, fair value gain/loss in other investments and share of profit/loss in equity method investment, net of tax, have been and may continue to be incurred in the Company's business and is not reflected in the presentation of adjusted net income/(loss). Further, the non-GAAP financial measures may differ from the non-GAAP information used by other companies, including peer companies, and therefore their comparability may be limited. The Company compensate for these limitations by reconciling the non-GAAP financial measure to the nearest U.S. GAAP performance measure, all of which should be considered when evaluating its performance. The Company encourages investors and others to review its financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure. Reconciliation of each of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is set forth at the end of this release. Conference Call UCLOUDLINK will hold a conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (8:30 p.m. Beijing Time on the same day) to discuss financial results and answer questions from investors and analysts. Listeners may access the call by dialing: International: +1-412-902-4272 US (Toll Free): +1-888-346-8982 UK (Toll Free): 0-800-279-9489 UK (Local Toll): 0-207-544-1375 Mainland China (Toll Free): 400-120-1203 Hong Kong (Toll Free): 800-905-945 Hong Kong (Local Toll): +852-3018-4992 Singapore (Toll Free): 800-120-6157 Participants should dial in at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time and ask to be connected to the call for 'UCLOUDLINK GROUP INC.' Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at A telephone replay will be available one hours after the end of the conference until May 28, 2025 by dialing: US (Toll Free): +1-877-344-7529 International: +1-412-317-0088 Canada (Toll Free): 855-669-9658 Replay Passcode: 8953824 About UCLOUDLINK GROUP INC. UCLOUDLINK is the world's first and leading mobile data traffic sharing marketplace, pioneering the sharing economy business model for the telecommunications industry. The Company's products and services deliver unique value propositions to mobile data users, handset and smart-hardware companies, mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) and mobile network operators (MNOs). Leveraging its innovative cloud SIM technology and architecture, the Company has redefined the mobile data connectivity experience by allowing users to gain access to mobile data traffic allowance shared by network operators on its marketplace, while providing reliable connectivity, high speeds and competitive pricing. Safe Harbor Statement This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the 'safe harbor' provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as 'will,' 'expects,' 'anticipates,' 'future,' 'intends,' 'plans,' 'believes,' 'estimates,' 'confident' and similar statements. Among other things, the financial guidance and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as UCLOUDLINK's strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. UCLOUDLINK may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about UCLOUDLINK's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: UCLOUDLINK's strategies; UCLOUDLINK's future business development, financial condition and results of operations; UCLOUDLINK's ability to increase its user base and usage of its mobile data connectivity services, and improve operational efficiency; competition in the global mobile data connectivity service industry; changes in UCLOUDLINK's revenues, costs or expenditures; governmental policies and regulations relating to the global mobile data connectivity service industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to UCLOUDLINK's business operations and the economy in China and elsewhere generally; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and UCLOUDLINK undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law. For more information, please contact: UCLOUDLINK GROUP INC. Daniel Gao Tel: +852-2180-6111 E-mail: ir@ Investor Relations: Christensen Advisory Christian Arnell, Managing Director Tel: +852-2117-0861 E-mail: ucloudlink@ GROUP CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands of US$, except for share and per share data) As of December 31, As of March 31, 2024 2025 ASSETS Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 30,057 31,075 Accounts receivable, net 7,880 6,098 Inventories 1,312 2,338 Prepayments and other current assets 5,637 5,290 Other investments 8,703 7,975 Amounts due from related parties 1,971 1,573 Total current assets 55,560 54,349 Non-current assets Long-term investments 2,011 2,012 Property and equipment, net 4,025 3,496 Right-of-use assets, net 2,876 2,408 Intangible assets, net 507 474 Total non-current assets 9,419 8,390 TOTAL ASSETS 64,979 62,739 LIABILITIES Current liabilities Short term borrowings 6,956 7,941 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 25,169 23,094 Accounts payable 7,445 6,934 Amounts due to related parties 49 - Contract liabilities 709 941 Operating lease liabilities 1,853 1,788 Total current liabilities 42,181 40,698 Non-current liabilities Operating lease liabilities 1,088 642 Other non-current liabilities 87 73 Total non-current liabilities 1,175 715 TOTAL LIABILITIES 43,356 41,413 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Class A ordinary shares 13 13 Class B ordinary shares 6 6 Additional paid-in capital 241,378 241,707 Accumulated other comprehensive income 2,234 2,222 Accumulated losses (222,008 ) (222,622 ) TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 21,623 21,326 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 64,979 62,739UCLOUDLINK GROUP CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/(LOSS)(In thousands of US$, except for share and per share data) For the three months ended March 31,2024 March 31,2025 Revenues 18,128 18,749 Revenues from services 13,537 14,199 Sales of products 4,591 4,550 Cost of revenues (8,125 ) (9,059 ) Cost of services (4,739 ) (6,070 ) Cost of products sold (3,386 ) (2,989 ) Gross profit 10,003 9,690 Research and development expenses (1,477 ) (1,399 ) Sales and marketing expenses (4,050 ) (5,693 ) General and administrative expenses (3,389 ) (3,140 ) Other (expense)/income, net (576 ) 70 Income/(loss) from operations 511 (472 ) Interest income 13 5 Interest expenses (56 ) (57 ) Income/(loss) before income tax 468 (524 ) Income tax expenses (21 ) (87 ) Share of loss in equity method investment, net of tax (17 ) (3 ) Net income/(loss) 430 (614 ) Attributable to: Equity holders of the Company 430 (614 ) Earnings/(loss) per share for Class A and Class B ordinary shares Basic 0.00 (0.00 ) Diluted 0.00 (0.00 ) Earnings/(loss) per ADS (10 Class A shares equal to 1 ADS) Basic 0.01 (0.02 ) Diluted 0.01 (0.02 ) Shares used in earnings/loss per Class A and Class B ordinary share computation: Basic 374,771,808 376,228,536 Diluted 374,771,808 376,228,536 Net income/(loss) 430 (614 ) Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax Foreign currency translation adjustment 218 (12 ) Total comprehensive income/(loss) 648 (626 )UCLOUDLINK GROUP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS(In thousands of US$) For the three months ended March 31,2024 March 31,2025 Net cash generated from operating activities 1,939 236 Net cash used in investing activities (587 ) (350 ) Net cash generated from financing activities 180 976 Increase in cash and cash equivalents 1,532 862 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period 23,371 30,057 Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (199 ) 156 Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 24,704 31,075UCLOUDLINK GROUP RECONCILIATIONS OF NON-GAAP AND GAAP RESULTS (In thousands of US$) For the three months ended March 31,2024 March 31,2025 Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted Net Income Net income/(loss) 430 (614 ) Add: share-based compensation 429 329 fair value loss in other investments 401 729 share of loss in equity method investment, net of tax 17 3 Adjusted net income 1,277 447For the three months ended March 31,2024 March 31,2025 Reconciliation of Net Income/(Loss) to Adjusted EBITDA Net income/(loss) 430 (614 ) Add: Interest expense 56 57 Income tax expenses 21 87 Depreciation and amortization 385 773 EBITDA 892 303 Add: share-based compensation 429 329 fair value loss in other investments 401 729 share of loss in equity method investment, net of tax 17 3 Adjusted EBITDA 1,739 1,364Sign in to access your portfolio
The Sun
20-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
All the mobile firms that DON'T charge for data while you're on holiday – and how to set a limit to avoid sky-high bills
HOLIDAYMAKERS heading overseas this summer will no doubt want to update friends and family at home with a few snaps on social media. But the cost of using your phone abroad can give a nasty financial shock when you return home. 1 Prior to Brexit Brits could use their data plans in Europe at no extra cost. But since we left the European Union many operators, including EE and Three, and have reintroduced the charges meaning you could end up with a pricey bill after a holiday if you're not careful. Happily there are networks still offering free roaming when you hop overseas. It means customers can carry on using their minutes, texts and data at no extra cost when on holiday. And if you frequently travel in Europe it could be worth switching provider. However, look at the small print carefully as some still have a cap on free roaming and after this you'll be charged. One way to make sure you don't overspend is through a 'spending cap' that you can put in place with your provider. Most mobile phone companies in the UK give customers this option - though you'll need to set it up first. So you tell your provider the maximum amount that you want to spend each month. Check what is includes first and if data roaming is, it could stop you racking up a huge bill while jet-setting. Here are the networks offering free roaming in Europe: Asda Asda will let you roam for free in 46 European countries. You don't need to tell Asda if you're going away, you can simply carry on texting, calling and streaming as you would at home. However, customers a have a data roaming limit of up to 5GB so make sure you don't go over. After this, usage will cost 10p per MB. The provider says it will let you know when you reach 80% and 100% of your data limit. Avoid these common holiday booking mistakes for a stress-free vacation BT Mobile BT Mobile's 'Roam Like Home' offering lets its customers roam for free in 47 destinations. You can use your mobile plan allowance to use data, make calls and send texts back to the UK as well as to receive calls and texts for free when you're roaming in these zones. GiffGaff GiffGaff plans can be used in the EU and some other destinations at no extra cost. However, there is a cap of 5GB and if you go over it'll cost 10p/MB. If you're a pay as you go customer, the provider will charge you at the usual UK rates. iD Mobile Roaming comes as standard on all iD mobile phone and SIM only plans. Customers can use their UK monthly allowances of minutes, text and data in 50 destinations worldwide up to 30GB. Lebara Lebara customers can use UK plan allowances while roaming in the EU or India for no extra cost. There is a fair use cap of up to 30GB on the unlimited data plan. O2 O2 is the only major network provider that has not brought back roaming charges. If you're travelling in what it calls its 'Europe Zone' which covers more than 40 destinations, you can call text or use data like you would in the UK and for no extra cost. There is a cap of 25GB. Smarty Smarty lets its customers roam in the EU for no extra costs. If your plan includes calls and texts, they'll also work as usual. However, there's a cap on data of up to 12GB. Talkmobile Talkmobile offers free EU roaming to countries in a list of 'zone A' destinations. This includes France, Spain, Portugal and other popular European spots. Outside of these zone A countries, you'll be subjected to charges. You can check the list of countries covered by zone A on its website at There is a fair usage of 5GB or 15GB depending on when you became a customer. Tesco Mobile Tesco Mobile has once again extended its free roaming offer until 2026. That means that you can use your text, call, and data allowances at no extra cost in 48 destinations How to avoid roaming charges Simrat Sharma, a mobiles expert at Uswitch, said switching to an eSIM - short for embedded SIM - can be cheaper than using international roaming. 'eSIMs make it easier to change networks," she said. "So for example, if you're abroad you can quickly connect to the local network to pay local rates - without having to add or swap a physical local SIM card for your device. "This means travel eSIMs are almost always cheaper than using international roaming, as users are effectively tapping into the same network plans as locals. If you're regularly switching numbers or travelling to different locations, you'll be able to keep them all safely in digital format rather than carrying around a number of small cards. 'The software can easily be accessed via your device's app store and uploaded to your phone in a few quick steps."
