TMT Round-Up: AI Investments, Streaming Shakeups, and Global 5G Momentum

TMT Round-Up: AI Investments, Streaming Shakeups, and Global 5G Momentum

The Technology, Media, and Telecommunications (TMT) sectors remain at the forefront of innovation and disruption in global markets. Over the past week, several key developments have reshaped investor sentiment and industry strategy. Here's a breakdown of what’s making waves:

Apple announce formal integration of OpenAI's ChatGPT into its iOS 19 and macOS Sequoia OS

1. Apple and OpenAI Partner Up

Apple made headlines at its WWDC 2025 by announcing a formal integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT into its iOS 19 and macOS Sequoia operating systems. This move positions Apple to re-enter the AI race by embedding contextual AI assistants into native apps like Safari, Mail, and Messages—without launching its own LLM. The partnership suggests a growing trend of big tech firms relying on specialist AI players rather than building large models from scratch.

2. Netflix Expands Into Live Sports and Gaming

Netflix has confirmed its first global live sports streaming deal, securing partial broadcasting rights to the ATP and WTA tennis tours. This complements its continued investment into interactive gaming, following success with “Netflix Stories.” The dual strategy of on-demand content and immersive interaction aims to diversify beyond traditional streaming and drive user engagement.

3. Semiconductor Supply Chain Rebalance

Intel, TSMC, and Samsung have jointly urged the U.S. and EU governments to accelerate subsidies under CHIPS and related frameworks as geopolitical tensions strain chip supply chains. TSMC also revealed construction delays in its Arizona plant due to a skilled labor shortage. Meanwhile, Nvidia continues to dominate AI GPU markets, prompting new players to look at RISC-V and ASICs for generative AI training efficiency.

4. Alibaba and Tencent Refocus Core Operations

In China, Alibaba has pulled back from aggressive international expansion of its cloud unit, opting to refocus on domestic enterprise clients and AI services tailored to Chinese SMEs. Tencent, meanwhile, has doubled down on its domestic WeChat ecosystem and entertainment content. Both tech giants are navigating regulatory scrutiny while avoiding U.S.-based hardware reliance.

5. 5G and Satellite Internet Accelerate Globally

Telecom operators globally are expanding 5G standalone networks. Notably, India’s Jio and Airtel reported that 5G users now account for over 15% of mobile subscribers. In satellite broadband, Starlink’s expansion into Southeast Asia and Latin America is being closely watched by regulators and local telcos, as competitive pricing undercuts terrestrial alternatives.

6. Media Consolidation Gains Pace

In the U.S., Paramount Global is reportedly in advanced merger talks with Skydance Media. If successful, this deal could consolidate iconic IP from CBS, Nickelodeon, and Paramount Pictures. The media industry is pivoting toward bundling content libraries and cost-cutting amid rising streaming saturation and declining linear TV revenues.

7. AI-Generated Music and Content Regulations Tighten

Following mounting pressure from artists and copyright holders, regulators in the EU and U.S. are proposing frameworks that require AI-generated music and video to carry clear labelling and usage rights disclosure. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are expected to roll out detection tools and compensation models for creators whose work trains generative AI engines.

From AI’s rapid commercialization and changing streaming economics to telecom infrastructure upgrades, the TMT sector remains dynamic and politically sensitive. Investors and business leaders will need to navigate rapid innovation cycles while managing new risks around data, regulation, and digital content monetization.