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Ucom Supports the Second Phase of ArmDrone’s FPV Drone Educational Program

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 10:14:00 +0000

With the support of Ucom, the ArmDrone community has launched the second phase of its free educational program on First-Person View (FPV) drones for teenagers.

As part of the program, participants took part in a practical training session featuring outdoor flight exercises. Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom, also attended the session.

More than 500 applications were submitted for the second phase of the program. The selected participants have already been introduced to UAV technologies and FPV systems, including drone operation, flight planning, and safe flying practices.

“Technological education is not only about acquiring theoretical knowledge; it is equally important to give young people opportunities to put what they learn into practice. At Ucom, we believe it is important to encourage young people to remain interested in technology and develop their professional skills. We believe that initiatives like this contribute to strengthening Armenia’s position as a regional hub for technology and innovation,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

During the practical session, participants strengthened their skills in field conditions by carrying out FPV drone flights and improving their techniques for controlling the devices and adjusting software and flight parameters. The experience gained provides an important foundation for more advanced flight exercises and participation in international FPV racing competitions.

“Thanks to Ucom’s support, we were able to implement this educational program step by step, from participant selection to the theoretical and practical stages. Today, participants are already able to apply the knowledge they have gained in field conditions, performing real flights and developing their piloting skills. Our goal is not only to teach young people how to operate a drone, but also to foster technical thinking, an engineering mindset, and create new opportunities for young people in the UAV sector,” said Hayk Karapetyan, founder of the ArmDrone community.

Ucom continuously implements initiatives aimed at technology education and youth development, with the goal of fostering interest in modern technologies and developing digital, technical, and engineering skills. The FPV* (First-Person View) drone educational program implemented in partnership with ArmDrone is an important part of these initiatives, providing young people with an opportunity to gain theoretical knowledge about UAV technologies and develop the practical skills needed to apply them. These skills can serve as a foundation for their future educational and professional paths.

Ucom and Microsoft Innovation Center’s Cybersecurity Education Program Concludes with a Mini CTF Competition

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 10:39:00 +0000

The “Cybersecurity Education Program for Schoolchildren,” implemented by the Microsoft Innovation Center with the support of Ucom, concluded with a Mini CTF (Capture The Flag) competition, bringing together 61 graduates across 19 teams.

Competing on a Jeopardy-style CTF platform, the participants tackled challenges of varying difficulty covering fundamental cybersecurity topics.

The competition challenges were based on realistic scenarios. Working in teams, participants solved a range of cybersecurity tasks, applying their technical knowledge, logical thinking, and teamwork skills. The competition provided them with an opportunity to put into practice the knowledge and skills they had acquired throughout the program.

“Armenia’s digital development depends not only on modern infrastructure, but also on people who can navigate the digital environment safely, responsibly, and confidently. That is why it is important for Ucom to contribute to developing cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills among students at an early age. Through this initiative, we aim to develop young people’s capabilities and spark their interest in technology-related careers, contributing to the development of Armenia’s future technology community,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

All program participants received certificates of participation and incentive prizes.

“The Mini CTF was a logical and important final stage of the program. It was essential for us that participants not only acquire theoretical knowledge but also have the opportunity to apply it in a realistic environment. Such an experience develops not only technical skills, but also analytical thinking, the ability to collaborate, and self-confidence,” said Marie Barseghyan, Director of the Microsoft Innovation Center.
The program, implemented with the support of Ucom, was open to schoolchildren aged 14–17.

Throughout the course, participants learned about modern digital threats, the key tools and principles for protecting against them, and gained an understanding of career opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. The Mini CTF competition served as the final practical challenge, allowing participants to apply the knowledge and skills they had acquired throughout the program.

The initiative marked another step in the cooperation between Ucom and the Microsoft Innovation Center, contributing to the development of young people’s digital literacy and technological skills in Armenia.

Armenian Students Win Two Bronze Medals at the International Olympiad in AI

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 12:21:00 +0000

Armenian high school students concluded their participation at the International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI) with two bronze medals and the country's best-ever team result, continuing Armenia's rapid emergence of an AI talent pipeline built within the country's public education system.

Competing against students from 131 countries, Aram Amirkhanyan and Razmik Yepremyan each earned bronze medals in the individual contest at the Olympiad, held Aug. 2–8 in Astana, Kazakhstan.

In the team competition, one of Armenia's two teams placed fifth in the Galbot robotics challenge, up from 16th place in 2025.

The results come just one year after Armenia made its debut at IOAI in Beijing. This year, the country had the maximum delegation permitted under the competition's rules: two four-member teams.

Three other students, Artyom Hovhannisyan, David Ghazaryan and Gurgen Bayburdyan, were included in Honorable Mentions.

The Olympiad consisted of three stages: a home round, a two-part team competition featuring both simulation and the Galbot robotics challenge, and an individual contest with six advanced AI problems.

Armenia's eight-member delegation was chosen through the country's first national selection for IOAI, organized by the Foundation for Armenian Science and Technology (FAST), the Olympiad's officially accredited representative in Armenia. A total of 168 students from across the country competed for a place on the national team.

The country's top-performing team comprised Alen Gevorgyan, Aram Amirkhanyan, Seryozha Nazaryan and Vahe Pluzyan, all students at the Vanadzor Special School with In-Depth Learning of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, one of nearly 40 public high schools participating in the Generation AI High School Project. The FAST-led initiative, implemented with Armenia's Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, integrates advanced AI into the national public high school curriculum.

For Vahe Pluzyan, Aram Amirkhanyan and Seryozha Nazaryan, this marked a second consecutive appearance at IOAI. The trio also competed in Beijing in 2025, where Amirkhanyan won Armenia's first-ever Olympiad medal with an individual bronze.

The teams were coached by Tigran Ishkhanyan and Tigran Gabrielyan, AI teachers bringing their industry expertise into Generation AI classrooms.
Armenia's second team comprised Artyom Hovhannisyan (Photon College, Gyumri), Gurgen Bayburdyan (Photon College, Gyumri; Generation AI student), David Ghazaryan (Vagharshapat High School N5; Generation AI student), and Razmik Yepremyan (Yerevan PhysMath School).

8 key findings from Mark Zuckerberg's “The Future is for Everyone” essay

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 10:50:00 +0000

In a lengthy essay The Future is for Everyone published on August 10, 2026, Meta's founder, Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg lays out Meta's guiding philosophy for the coming era of superintelligence, arguing that the central question of our time is not whether AI will be powerful, but who gets to control it.

We present you 8 key findings from Zuckerberg's essay.

1. Core philosophy: three pillars. Zuckerberg frames Meta's AI approach around individual empowerment as the source of prosperity, invention (not automation) as superintelligence's main purpose, and balance of power as the foundation of safety.

2. Rejects centralized "benevolent superintelligence." He argues no single AI system can be aligned with everyone's competing values and interests, so concentrating superintelligence in a few labs, governments, or the AI itself is inherently risky — the solution is broad distribution to individuals.

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3. Personal AI agents for everyone. Meta envisions each person having a highly capable, private personal agent — accessible via phone or smart glasses — that manages relationships, health, career, finances, and daily life, with an encrypted "fully private mode" Meta itself can't access.

4. Jobs and the economy: cautious optimism. He predicts AI could produce more entrepreneurship, more (smaller) companies, and potentially net job growth rather than mass displacement — provided individual capability growth keeps pace with automation.

5. Data center community investment. Meta is launching a "Future Is For Everyone Fund" and cites Richland Parish, Louisiana, where local teachers received $50,000 bonuses funded by data-center tax revenue, as a model for its "Community Compact" approach.

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6. Cybersecurity and bioterrorism policy proposals. He proposes frontier labs share intermediate training checkpoints with government during (not after) training, help harden critical infrastructure, and argues open, widely deployed AI ultimately makes systems more secure than restricting access.

7. Biorisk approach: regulate materials, not knowledge. Rather than restricting AI capabilities, he argues policy should focus on limiting physical production/distribution of harmful compounds and speeding up FDA-style approval processes to keep pace with AI-driven drug discovery.

8. American AI leadership. He calls for faster energy/infrastructure buildout, continued export controls on chips to rivals (like China), no domestic slowdowns on model releases, and U.S. leadership in open source — including defending AI distillation as legitimate learning.

Ucom Expands International Roaming Capabilities

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 08:04:00 +0000

Ucom continue to develop its services and network capabilities to ensure the best digital experience for its subscribers both in Armenia and abroad.

Currently, Ucom’s roaming services are available through the networks of 327 operators in 167 countries worldwide. The company is also continuously expanding the coverage of its international 5G roaming service. Ucom subscribers can already enjoy high-speed 5G connectivity through the networks of 96 operators in 62 countries, including Russia, China, the United States, Australia, India, and many other destinations.

In the second quarter of 2026, the number of Ucom subscribers using roaming services while abroad increased by 29% compared to the first quarter, while their mobile internet usage grew by 26%. During the first half of this year alone, Ucom subscribers used around 50,000 GB of mobile internet while outside Armenia.

Alongside the growing use of roaming services, Ucom offers its subscribers uTravel internet packages in various volumes while roaming. Until September 30, subscribers who activate any package starting from the uTravel 4 GB package will receive additional data at no additional cost: in the case of the 4 GB package, subscribers will receive 4.5 GB, for 6 GB - 7.5 GB, and for 9 GB - 10 GB, priced at 4,500, 6,500, and 9,500 AMD, respectively.

uTravel packages are available in Georgia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Spain, Montenegro, Albania, Tunisia, and many other destinations.

“Today, maintaining fast and reliable connectivity is essential for subscribers, whether they are in Armenia or travelling abroad. The growing use of roaming services shows that mobile internet has become an integral part of the travel experience. We continuously expand our international partner network, extend our 5G geographic reach, and provide solutions that make connectivity abroad simple, convenient, and predictable,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

To activate uTravel packages, subscribers need to dial *121# and select their preferred package.

Ucom’s extensive and high-quality network continues to earn the trust of international partner operators and their subscribers visiting Armenia. As a result, in the second quarter of 2026, the number of foreign visitors using Ucom’s network increased by 54% compared to the first quarter, while the volume of their mobile internet usage grew by 93%. Ucom’s 5G network is now available to 94.6% of the country’s population, covering all regions of Armenia and almost all cities, with the exception of Dastakert.

Please note that roaming must be activated before leaving Armenia, either through the Ucom app or by dialing *121#.

Ucom Supports the Launch of "Remember the Animals" Educational Game

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 07:11:00 +0000

With the support of Ucom, the SunChild Environmental NGO organized an interactive environmental education event as part of the Khnko Aper National Children's Library Summer School, introducing the new educational game, "Remember the Animals."

Through the game, children learned about animal species found in Armenia while developing their memory, attention, and cognitive skills. The initiative aims to foster children's interest in nature through a captivating and accessible format, while raising awareness about environmental protection and Armenia's rich biodiversity.

Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom, also joined the summer school students for the game's trial session and participated in discussions on environmental topics.

"As a green company, Ucom considers it important to support initiatives that help people discover Armenia's nature and encourage children to understand, from an early age, their role in protecting it. Environmental awareness begins to develop when knowledge about nature is presented in a simple and engaging way. Games are among the most effective educational tools, as they combine learning, communication, and active participation," said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

"Environmental education for children and young people lies at the heart of SunChild Environmental NGO’s mission. "Remember the Animals" game is not just entertainment—it provides children with an opportunity to discover Armenia's rich biodiversity and unique wildlife from an early age. By learning to appreciate and protect nature through play, children become its future guardians. We are pleased to partner with Ucom on this initiative, which has enabled us to create a practical and engaging educational tool," said Sona Kalantaryan, President of the SunChild Environmental NGO.

At the end of the event, copies of the game were presented to the Khnko Aper National Children's Library and the participating children, allowing them to continue exploring Armenia's wildlife beyond the event.

The initiative is also part of the awareness campaign being carried out in the lead-up to the 17th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP17). More than 500 copies of the game will be printed and distributed to children visiting the Green Zone during COP17.

Ucom and FPWC Ensure Round-the-Clock Wildlife Monitoring in Gnishik

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 10:50:00 +0000

With Ucom's support, the Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets (FPWC) has installed two autonomous (off-grid) solar-powered stations in Gnishik to ensure the uninterrupted, around-the-clock operation of wildlife monitoring cameras.

This initiative will enable FPWC specialists to continuously monitor movement and behavior of wild animals, study the migration routes of endangered species, and strengthen surveillance to help prevent illegal hunting and forest fires. The autonomous solar stations are particularly important for ensuring the reliable operation of monitoring systems in remote areas beyond the reach of the power grid. By providing an independent energy source, the stations allow the cameras to collect data 24/7 regardless of access to centralized electricity.

"Modern technologies can create real value not only in people's daily lives but also in nature conservation. This project in Gnishik demonstrates how connectivity and renewable-energy solutions can be combined to establish a reliable, around-the-clock monitoring system in remote areas. At Ucom, we are committed to supporting initiatives that deliver long-term environmental impact and contribute to preserving Armenia's biodiversity," said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

The use of solar energy also reduces dependence on conventional energy sources while promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly technological solutions to addressing conservation challenges.

"In today's world, it is impossible to imagine effective wildlife conservation without integrating advanced technologies with renewable energy solutions. The installation of autonomous solar-powered stations in Gnishik takes our monitoring efforts to a new level, providing an uninterrupted flow of data 24/7 data flow even from the most remote locations beyond the electricity grid. This enables us not only to more effectively prevent illegal hunting and forest fires but also to conduct in-depth scientific research on the movement of endangered species," said Ruben Khachatryan, Founder and Director of FPWC.

The partnership between Ucom and FPWC continues and aims to enhance the effectiveness of monitoring protected areas. During earlier phases of the cooperation, Ucom provided high-quality internet connectivity for FPWC's thermal camera systems, enabling specialists to remotely receive, analyze, and utilize data transmitted from protected areas in real time.

The integration of innovative technological and energy solutions helps establish a more reliable wildlife conservation system by enabling continuous monitoring and ensuring rapid response whenever necessary.

As part of the initiative, local beekeeping families in Gnishik also received a solar-powered electric fence to protect their beehives from bears. The fence will secure approximately one hectare of land, helping four families safeguard their hives.

The system is both modern and wildlife-friendly. When touched by an animal, solar-powered electric fences emit a mild electric pulse that deters further approach without causing harm. The installation of these “shepherd” fences is viewed as a short-term practical measure while long-term projects continue in parallel, including Ucom's large-scale tree-planting program. As tens of thousands of trees mature into forests, they will serve as a sufficient natural food source for wild animals.

Dexatel Wins Gold Stevie Award for Technology Excellence

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 07:36:00 +0000

Dexatel has been named the winner of a Gold Stevie Award in the Company of the Year – Communication Technology category in the third annual Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence.

The Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of individuals, teams, and organizations shaping the future of technology across all industry sectors.

Winners will be honored at a red carpet awards ceremony on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the Pullman Paris Montparnasse in Paris, France, where they will be celebrated alongside winners of the 2026 Stevie Awards for Great Employers, The International Business Awards, and the German Stevie Awards.

More than 700 nominations from organizations of all sizes in 37 nations and territories were submitted this year for consideration in a wide range of technology-related categories, including Company of the Year, Educational or Research Institution of the Year, Technical Innovation of the Year, Technology Breakthrough of the Year, and more. Dexatel is a Gold Stevie Award winner in the Company of the Year – Communication Technology category for its Global Communications Infrastructure Platform.

Dexatel was recognized for helping businesses simplify global customer communications through a unified Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS). Its platform enables organizations to power OTP verification, two-factor authentication (2FA), customer notifications, business messaging, and omnichannel communications across SMS, WhatsApp, Viber, Voice, Telegram, RCS, and Email through a single API and platform.

Trusted by businesses worldwide, Dexatel helps organizations improve customer authentication, maximize message delivery rates, prevent fraud, and scale customer communications with enterprise-grade reliability, transparent pricing, and direct operator connectivity.

"We're honored to receive this recognition from the Stevie Awards," said Gegham Azatyan, Co-founder & Commercial Director at Dexatel. "Winning a Gold Stevie Award is a significant milestone for our team and reflects our commitment to building communications technology that businesses can rely on every day. As digital communications continue to evolve, we'll continue investing in innovation that helps organizations deliver secure authentication, reliable messaging, and exceptional customer experiences."

More than 180 professionals worldwide participated in the judging process to select this year's honorees.

"We congratulate all of the winners in the third annual Stevie Awards for Technology Excellence for their outstanding achievements," said Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller. "Their innovations are helping shape the future of technology across every industry, and we look forward to celebrating their success on October 28."

Noubar Afeyan congratulates newly appointed Minister of High-Tech Industry

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 05:45:00 +0000

Noubar Afeyan, founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering, congratulated Davit Tadevosyan on his appointment as Minister of High-Tech Industry of Armenia.

“Congratulations Davit. It is good to see an MIT graduate as a minister within Armenia’s cabinet. Wishing you great success at such a critical time for high tech and AI in the country,” said Noubar Afeyan.

Civilnet reports that in 2024-2025, David Tadevosyan served as the director of the Afeyan Initiatives for Armenia (AIFA) organization.

Viva and “Artissimo” continue to write their success story

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 12:50:00 +0000

The partnership launched eight months ago is already delivering meaningful results. Viva and the “Artissimo” Cultural Social Organization have reached significant milestones in their joint efforts to support children with special educational needs.

This initiative is helping children take their first steps, say their first words, and demonstrate positive behavioral changes that also contribute to the psychological well-being of their parents. For many families, each of these achievements represents a dream that has taken years to realize. Specialists at the “Voskeporik” Development Center attribute this progress to the integrated use of multiple therapeutic approaches.

As part of the program, children from the “Voskeporik” Development Center traveled in small groups from two provinces to Drakhtik to participate in another hippotherapy session. Every aspect of the program has been carefully planned to ensure its effectiveness, from creating the necessary facilities to selecting horses with the appropriate temperament and characteristics. Before the sessions, specialists conducted individual preparatory work with each child to help them overcome their fears, build trust, and achieve the best possible therapeutic outcomes.

“This team is doing tremendous work, and I am confident that their dedication and professionalism will lead to many more success stories. I am not an expert in hippotherapy, but I do know that there is compelling evidence supporting its effectiveness. Perhaps the best example is the story of Danish equestrian Lis Hartel. During her competitive career, she was left paralyzed after contracting polio. Yet she refused to let the disease define her future. Just 8 years later, she competed in Olympic dressage—against men—and won a silver medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games. Years later, she repeated the achievement by winning another Olympic silver medal. Through both her remarkable personal journey and her sporting accomplishments, Hartel demonstrated that horseback riding can be a powerful tool for rehabilitation.” Viva’s General Director Armen Avetisian said.

Katerina Horstka, an equestrian specialist trained in Switzerland, places special emphasis on hippotherapy and therapeutic adaptive riding as part of the educational and rehabilitation services. According to the specialist, the complex movements of the horse’s back muscles while walking provide a massaging and warming effect. It’s body temperature, which is 1,5 degrees higher than that of a human, stimulates blood circulation, boosts fine motor skills, and promotes a positive worldview in the child.

“With the support of Viva, we provide a wide range of educational, therapeutic, and rehabilitation services to children from two regions. While each of these services plays an important role, the accessibility and continuity of hippotherapy are especially vital to achieving lasting results. The horse’s natural, rhythmic movements are transmitted to the child’s body, stimulating the neuromuscular system and helping improve balance, posture, and coordination. In effect, the muscles receive the sensory input needed to support walking patterns. At the same time, the child participates in an engaging and motivating environment that encourages cooperation, active participation, and learning,” Katerina Horstka, founder of the “Artissimo” cultural NGO, said.

The specialists of the “Voskeporik” Development Centers render services to 200 children annually in the Vayots Dzor and Gegharkunik regions.

Within the framework of Viva's support program, 60 children receive educational and medical rehabilitation services by attending development centers in the Gegharkunik and Vayots Dzor regions, contributing to their inclusive development. For many children, rehabilitation must be continuous, as interrupting the process makes it impossible to achieve the desired outcomes. Viva's support ensures the much-needed continuity of these essential services and change the kids’ quality of life.

The range of specialized educational and rehabilitation services includes sensory integration, psychological support within the scope of relationship between parents and children, speech therapy, fairy tale therapy, art therapy, music therapy, and hippotherapy.

To ensure the timely identification of potential developmental disorders and maximize the effectiveness of the support provided, specialists work not only with children but also with their parents.

Investments in the AI Factory to reach $5 billion by the end of the second phase

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 04:59:00 +0000

The initial investment in Firebird AI’s artificial intelligence (AI) data center in Hrazdan amounts to $500 million and includes the deployment of 6,144 NVIDIA Blackwell-generation GPUs. By the end of the second phase, total investment is expected to reach approximately $5 billion, with the addition of around 42,000 more GPUs.

This is stated in a news release by Armenia’s Ministry of High-Tech Industry, summarizing Minister Mkhitar Hayrapetyan’s visit to Firebird AI.

“Thanks to the joint efforts of the Government of Armenia and Firebird, Armenia is transforming from a consumer of technology into a country that delivers cutting-edge artificial intelligence products and solutions to the world, ready to help shape the rules of the future,” the news release says.

Ucom’s Sales and Service Center Reopens at 24/2 Shahumyan Street in Ararat

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 07:43:00 +0000

Ucom’s sales and service center has reopened at 24/2 Shahumyan Street in Ararat. The renovated and more comfortable space is designed to provide subscribers with faster, more accessible, and high-quality service.

The renewed sales and service center has been designed as a single integrated platform where subscribers can not only activate services or receive professional advice, but also explore Ucom’s complete digital ecosystem on-site—from fixed internet and mobile connectivity to television, Wi-Fi solutions, and smart devices.

“It is important for Ucom that modern communication services are accessible not only in the capital, but across all regions of Armenia. We place great importance on modernizing our service centers to serve our subscribers in a comfortable environment and improve their everyday experience,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

From July 27 through August 31 inclusive, subscribers who sign up for any Unity tariff plan for 12 months at the service center located at 24/2 Shahumyan Street will receive one month of service free of charge. By subscribing to a Unity package, customers receive fixed internet, mobile connectivity, and television services in a single package at a more affordable price.

In addition, through August 7 inclusive, customers who purchase any smartphone will receive a pair of Canyon wireless earbuds as a gift.

Ucom Supports the Installation of a 15 kW Solar Power Plant at the Vayk Sports School

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 07:14:00 +0000

With Ucom’s support, the Arevordi Environmental NGO has installed a solar power plant with an installed capacity of 15 kW at the Vayk Children and Youth Sports School.

The sports school previously had a 5 kW solar power plant installed with community funding. However, the electricity it generated was insufficient to meet the facility’s heating and ventilation needs. With the launch of the new 15 kW plant, the school will be able to cover nearly all of its electricity needs with its own solar power.

“For Ucom, investing in green technologies is not only about protecting the environment. It is also about improving the efficiency, sustainability, and long-term viability of community institutions. When a sports school can reduce its energy costs and redirect those savings toward improving conditions for children, technology gains a clear social value. The project implemented in Vayk is another example of our approach—investing in solutions that create value for people, communities, and the environment at the same time,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

More than 430 children currently attend the sports school. It offers football, volleyball, basketball, kickboxing, karate, weightlifting, and table tennis classes for girls and boys, and regularly hosts chess tournaments.

“We view the energy self-sufficiency of community infrastructure as one of the systemic ways to address both environmental and economic challenges. Decentralized solar power generation reduces the carbon footprint, strengthens energy security, and frees up resources that communities can redirect toward their priority needs. The project implemented at the Vayk Sports School is a practical example of this model,” said Sona Kalantaryan, President of the SunChild Environmental NGO.

Access to stable and affordable energy will help reduce the sports school’s operating costs and enable the savings to be used to create more comfortable training conditions for children. At the same time, the solar plant will strengthen the facility’s energy self-sufficiency and reduce its environmental impact.

Over the four years of cooperation between Ucom and the SunChild Environmental NGO, 18 solar power plants have already been installed at kindergartens, community buildings, and infrastructure facilities across different regions of Armenia, contributing to greater environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

The cradle of ancient civilization and winemaking is becoming a cave museum

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:19:00 +0000

Active work is underway in Areni to create the first cave museum. The cooperation between Viva and the “Areni-1 Cave” Scientific Research Foundation is promising.

The partner organizations aim to present the cradle of ancient civilization and winemaking to the public and the world in a new format by the end of the year – as a cave museum. This will help preserve the unique archaeological heritage while contributing to the development of tourism, education, science and the economy of Vayots Dzor. Moreover, the museum can contribute to “Areni-1 Cave” becoming a unique scientific and educational center in the entire South Caucasus.

The installation of cabinets and display cases at this archaeological center of global significance is nearing completion. At the same time, work is underway on the museum’s lighting, interior design and security systems. The discovered colorful karas, a traditional Armenian clay vessel used in winemaking, already has its place, and an animated presentation of it has also been prepared. For seven years now, the foundation has been conducting research in Vayots Dzor. An exceptional history has been preserved in the layers being studied, from the early stages of the formation of humanity to the present day. The focus is not only on Areni Cave, but also on the archaeological heritage of the Arpa River Valley.

“The idea of creating a cave museum was quite risky, because there was no such precedent. It is one thing to have a bold idea and another to bring it to life. It is the same in archaeology. It is one thing to excavate a new site without knowing what to expect, and another to continue work that began years ago. Viva believed in the importance of our initiative, took the risk and supported us. There are risks, of course, but the process of creating the museum shows that our hopes will be justified and we will have a very good result,” said Boris Gasparyan, founder of the “Areni-1 Cave” Research Foundation, researcher at the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the National Academy of Sciences, head of the Areni expedition.

The “Areni-1” cave is not only a unique archaeological monument of Armenia but also a site of global significance that offers new insights into the origins of human civilization, culture, and winemaking. It is a great honor for Viva to participate in a project that brings together science, education, the preservation of national heritage, and the development of regional tourism. We are confident that the establishment of Armenia’s first cave museum will present these invaluable discoveries to the world in a manner worthy of their significance, preserve their legacy for future generations, and give new impetus to the development of the Vayots Dzor region. By supporting initiatives of this kind, we invest not only in preserving the past but also in the future of our country,” said Viva’s General Director Armen Avetisian.

Thousands of finds related to the worldview of the society that lived 6000 years ago have been discovered in the “Areni-1 Cave”, reflecting the connection between material and spiritual culture. They change the existing ideas about the early history of humankind. Before becoming part of the museum exhibition, the finds undergo a long restoration process at the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography. This work requires a patient, careful, meticulous and responsible approach to present the archaeological heritage of our country and these finds of universal significance to the world.

The cave museum will have two halls. With the support of Viva, the museum will be furnished and fitted with the necessary security system.

Ucom Sales and Service Center Reopens at 3/47 Yerevanyan Street in Yeghvard

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:49:00 +0000

Ucom’s Sales and Service Center in Yeghvard will now welcome customers at its new address: 3/47 Yerevanyan Street.

The center has relocated to a more convenient location to make services more accessible and efficient for customers.

The renovated Sales and Service Center has been designed as an integrated space where customers can not only subscribe to services or receive professional advice but also explore Ucom’s entire digital ecosystem—from fixed internet and mobile services to television, Wi-Fi solutions, and smart devices.

“Our goal is to ensure that Ucom customers in all communities across Armenia receive the same high-quality service and have access to a comfortable and modern environment. The relocation of the Yeghvard service center is part of our consistent efforts to improve our service network and enhance the customer experience,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

From July 20 through August 31, customers who sign up for any Unity tariff package for 12 months at the service center located at 3/47 Yerevanyan Street will receive the opportunity to use it free of charge for 1 month. By subscribing to a Unity package, customers receive fixed internet, mobile services, and television in a single package at a more affordable price. In addition, through July 31 inclusive, customers who purchase any smartphone will receive a pair of Canyon wireless earphones.

Ucom continues to develop and modernize its network of Sales and Service Centers, offering customers accessible, faster, and high-quality service both in Yerevan and across Armenia’s regions.

To ensure access to its services throughout the country, Ucom has already opened 74 Sales and Service Centers, 52 of which operate in the regions and 22 in Yerevan.

Ucom and Microsoft Innovation Center Help School Students Build Cybersecurity Skills

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:07:00 +0000

With the support of Ucom, certificates of completion were awarded to the first group of participants of the “Cybersecurity Educational Program for School Students” initiative, implemented by Microsoft Innovation Center Armenia.

The initiative, designed for school students aged 14–17, aims to develop fundamental knowledge of cybersecurity, enhance digital literacy, and encourage safe and responsible behavior in the digital environment.

With the guidance of experienced specialists from Microsoft Innovation Center, the students learned about the key principles of cybersecurity, modern digital threats, and ways to protect themselves against them. They also gained practical skills that will help them navigate the everyday digital environment with greater confidence — from protecting personal data to communicating safely online.

“For Ucom, it is important to support initiatives that equip young people with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for a safer digital future. Today, children and teenagers become active participants in the digital world from a very early age. Our task is to help them be not only active in this environment, but also protected, aware, and responsible,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

“At Microsoft Innovation Center, we have come to firmly believe that cybersecurity should be accessible and understandable to every young person, not only to those who may choose this field as their future profession. When safe digital behavior is shaped from school age, young people use technologies with greater confidence and responsibility. Developing this mindset is one of the most important outcomes of initiatives like this,” said Mari Barseghyan, Director of Microsoft Innovation Center.

During the graduation event, the results of the program’s first group were presented, the participants shared their impressions and experience, after which the certificate award ceremony took place.

The initiative is ongoing, and after the completion of courses for two more study groups, a Mini-CTF (Capture The Flag) cybersecurity competition will be organized with the support of Ucom. The competition will bring together all of the program’s nearly 70 participants, giving them the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical environment.

Ucom Supports Installation of 10 kW Solar Plant in Shenavan, Lori

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:23:00 +0000

With the support of Ucom, the SunChild Environmental NGO has installed a new solar plant with an installed capacity of 10 kW in the Shenavan settlement of Armenia’s Lori region.

The plant is designed to meet the energy needs of the local kindergarten and sports school.

The launch of the solar power plant will make it possible to significantly reduce the community budget’s energy expenses. The energy generated, as well as the funds saved as a result, will be directed toward covering the heating needs of the educational and sports institutions during the winter months, creating warmer and more comfortable conditions for children and teenagers.

“For Ucom, the green agenda is not simply a separate area of corporate social responsibility, but an important part of our long-term strategy. The project implemented in Shenavan is a clear example of this approach: through green technologies, we help the community reduce costs, increase energy independence, and create more comfortable conditions for children. We are confident that the real impact of business is measured not only by the services it provides, but also by the long-term value it creates for people, communities, and the environment,” said Ralph Yirikian, General Director of Ucom.

“Access to solar energy in Armenian communities has not only environmental but also important socio-economic significance. The plant installed in Shenavan is an excellent example of how green technologies can help ease the burden on a community and make a direct investment in children’s future. We highly value Ucom’s responsible approach, thanks to which, through joint efforts, we contribute to strengthening energy independence and building a sustainable environment in Armenia’s regions,” said Sona Kalantaryan, President of SunChild NGO.

The installation of the solar power plant is another step toward the development of renewable energy in Lori region and resilience to climate challenges. For years to come, it will serve local educational institutions as a sustainable and safe source of energy.

Ucom and the SunChild Environmental NGO have many years of experience in implementing joint programs. Within the framework of their cooperation, the parties have brought to life a number of projects — from the annual support of the SunChild International Environmental Festival and the promotion of eco-conscious thinking among young people to the installation of energy-efficient and renewable energy systems in remote communities. This cooperation is a successful example of how large businesses and civil society can unite their efforts for the social and environmental empowerment of communities and a sustainable future.

Viva is the main partner of the “Golden Apricot” International Film Festival

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:12:00 +0000

The beloved and widely recognized film festival, the “Golden Apricot”, has kicked off in Yerevan for the 23rd time.

For guests arriving in Yerevan from abroad, the festival will be presented with new, interesting and multifaceted layers and will serve as a window opening in the cinema hall. The message of the next festival is unique and important: expect not an explanation from cinema, but a revelation. At its core is the desire to discover, feel and reinterpret the world from another, emotional perspective.

The main poster of the “Golden Apricot” Film Festival this year is dedicated to poetry. The Yerevan summer promises to turn into an honest and profound revelation of worldview through the combination of cinema and poetry. The author of the main poster is the world-renowned artist and designer Igor Gurovich, whose works have repeatedly been in the spotlight and have received international acclaim. Gurovich’s work suggests that cinema and poetry should be considered as a space of creative freedom and human sensitivity. Competition films from different countries of the world, including the most prestigious ones, Cannes, Berlin and other film festivals, will be screened for a week.

Representatives of various agencies, heads of partner organizations, cultural figures, the Founding President of the festival Harutyun Khachatryan, the festival’s Managing and Artistic Director Karen Avetisyan, honored guests from abroad and others participated in the official opening of the 23rd “Golden Apricot”.

For the 15th time, the main partner of the prestigious film festival, which brings a unique touch to the cultural events of Armenia, is Viva. The festival kicked off with Tamara Stepanyan’s film “In the Land of Arto”.

“The importance of art can only be articulated in the language of art. Humanity needs it not just for expression, but for development. The greats of all times remind us of this. Dante and Brodsky are separated by six centuries, but the two presented different sides of the same truth. Dante suggests that the world moves with the power of love, and Brodsky suggests that man strives for his highest calling through poetry. Art is the language of love. I am glad to note that Viva has been striving to convey an important message to people for 15 years through this film festival,” said Armen Avetisian, General Director of Viva.

“Poetry is not just rhyme and rhythm. It is a language of expression of human experience, feelings and thoughts, which allows us to see the world from a new perspective. With this year’s poster, the film festival invites the audience not only to watch art, but also to live within it, to be sensitive, curious and open to the world, to become a part of the poetic space of cinema,” said the festival’s Managing and Artistic Director Karen Avetisyan.

During the festival, world-renowned authors, directors, actors and experts in the field will be in Armenia, to share their experience and art to the Armenian audience, creating an exclusive platform for dialogue, new ideas and cultural exchange.

The president of the 23rd “Golden Apricot” International Jury is Jessica Hausner. Hausner’s films, who is considered one of the leading figures of contemporary Austrian cinema, have premiered in Cannes and Venice. They have been widely recognized for their innovative approach to genre cinema. The regional competition jury is headed by Mahmoud Kalari, a renowned cinematographer who has shot films by iconic Iranian directors Abbas Kiarostami, Jafar Panahi, and Mohsen Makhmalbaf.

The festival will be closed with the film “Once within a Time” by Godfrey Reggio. Until then, interesting screenings, cultural excitement, intensive work of the international jury, and heated discussions by the audience await.

The festival’s main sponsor is Yerevan Municipality. The festival is supported by the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of the Republic of Armenia.

Viva Receives Ookla® Speedtest Award for the Fastest Mobile Network in Armenia

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 08:04:00 +0000

Viva has been recognized by Ookla®, the global leader in connectivity intelligence, as the Fastest Mobile Network in Armenia based on Speedtest Intelligence® data for Q1 2026.

According to the official Speedtest Awards™ results published by Ookla, Viva ranked first among mobile operators in Armenia with a Speed Score™ of 64.59, achieving median download speeds of 101.44 Mbps and median upload speeds of 21.99 Mbps. The results are available on Ookla website.

The award is based on Speedtest Intelligence® data derived from more than 147,648 consumer-initiated mobile network tests conducted across Armenia during the award period. Speedtest® by Ookla® analyzes millions of consumer-initiated tests collected through Speedtest.net and its mobile applications to evaluate the performance of internet service providers and mobile networks worldwide.

"Presenting Viva with the Speedtest Award for Fastest Mobile Network in Armenia during 1H 2026 underscores their unwavering commitment to providing top-tier mobile services,” said Stephen Bye, President and CEO of Ookla. “This recognition is based on comprehensive analysis of consumer-initiated tests taken with Speedtest, reflecting real-world performance. Viva has demonstrated a willingness to invest in their network and focus on operational excellence, which are crucial for enhancing user experience and driving digital progress in Armenia.”

"This recognition reflects our long-term commitment to developing a network that delivers the best possible experience for our customers," said Armen Avetisian, General Director of Viva. "We continue to invest in next-generation mobile technologies, expand coverage and increase network capacity to ensure that individuals, businesses and public institutions benefit from reliable, high-speed connectivity wherever they are. This recognition is a testament to our team's dedication and reinforces our commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality network that supports Armenia's digital future. The launch of Armenia's only 5G+ network marks a new milestone in the development of Armenia's digital infrastructure and creates a strong foundation for the country's digital economy."

Viva has consistently pioneered the introduction of mobile technologies in Armenia. The company was the first to launch commercial 3G/UMTS/HSPA network on 17 April 2009, 4G/LTE network on 22 December 2010, 5G on 6 April 2023, and 5G+ on 2 July 2026, further strengthening its leadership in next-generation mobile communications.

Feel 5G+ in Yerevan and Six Regions: Viva Launched Armenia's first and only 5G+ network

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 08:30:00 +0000

Feel 5G+ in Yerevan and six Regions - Viva announces the launch of Armenia's first and only 5G+ network in Yerevan and in the cities of the Shirak, Lori, Tavush, Gegharkunik, Kotayk, and Aragatsotn regions.

In the next phase of the project, Viva will continue expanding its 5G+ network, ensuring its availability in all cities across Armenia by the end of the year. Gradually, 5G+ network will be made available to village communities and other populated areas.

The key advantage of 5G+ over previous generations of mobile technology, including conventional 5G, extends beyond higher speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect significantly more devices simultaneously within a single network. Built on enhanced network intelligence and advanced 5G capabilities, 5G+ provides the infrastructure required to support a new generation of digital services. It enables more sophisticated AI-powered applications, massive IoT deployments, real-time data processing at the network edge, and immersive experiences based on virtual, augmented, and mixed reality. In doing so, 5G+ transforms the network from a connectivity platform into a foundation for intelligent digital services and Industry 4.0.

Global experience demonstrates that large-scale deployment of 5G+ has a significant impact on countries' economies, competitiveness, and digital ecosystems. It was this strategic vision that drove Viva's acquisition of the largest radio spectrum resources in Armenia's history.
Viva now has twice the spectrum resources it previously held, made possible by the largest investment in radio spectrum acquisition in the Company's history. Securing the rights to use the radio frequencies allocated for the 5G has created the spectrum foundation required for the deployment of a standalone 5G+ network and the introduction of next-generation digital services and solutions.

The deployment of the 5G+ network in Yerevan was carried out with Nokia's advanced connectivity support, while the rollout across the Shirak, Lori, Tavush, Gegharkunik, Kotayk, and Aragatsotn regions’ towns was implemented with Ericsson's technological solutions and technical expertise.

The 5G+ network enables Viva to develop innovative digital services that will benefit both individual subscribers and businesses.

The areas expected to generate the greatest economic impact through the combined use of 5G/5G+, IoT, and Artificial Intelligence include:

• Industrial robotics;
• Smart factories and predictive maintenance;
• Smart agriculture;
• Smart water management;
• Smart cities;
• Digital twins.

5G+ also creates the foundation for a new generation of digital services. These include AI-powered smart calls, where speech can be translated into the recipient's preferred language in real time and accompanied by on-screen subtitles, as well as cloud smartphones, where the device's computing resources and applications are hosted within the operator's cloud infrastructure, enhancing both device performance and the overall user experience.

Global experience also shows that 5G+ infrastructure can accelerate the development of autonomous transportation, remote healthcare services, smart manufacturing, and other advanced digital economy solutions.

The evolution of 5G+ is also expected to fundamentally reshape the business model of telecommunications operators. Fifth-generation connectivity enables Artificial Intelligence capabilities to be deployed directly within the network, delivering near-instant response times and enhanced performance. This approach will allow operators to gradually evolve from connectivity providers into platforms delivering real-time digital services and AI-powered solutions.

"We expect the positive impact of 5G+ deployment to be reflected both in the enhanced quality of services delivered to individual subscribers and in the digital transformation of various sectors of the economy. International experience shows that organizations operating in logistics, retail, manufacturing, and smart city environments can significantly improve their operational efficiency by implementing IoT, Artificial Intelligence, robotics, digital twins, and autonomous transportation solutions. We are confident that 5G+ will become a major catalyst for the next stage of Armenia's digital transformation," said Armen Avetisian, the General Director of Viva.

"Everyone who becomes a Viva subscriber between July 14 and August 14, 2026 (inclusive) at Viva service centers located in cities and villages covered by the 5G+ network will receive a complimentary 50 GB mobile internet package," added Viva's General Director.

"Providing seamless 5G+ coverage across the entire city of Yerevan presented a significant engineering challenge due to its complex terrain, which includes both lowland and elevated areas. Our objective was to deliver the same high level of service quality across all administrative districts, regardless of geographical conditions. We are pleased that today 5G+ is available throughout Yerevan—a city that is home to nearly half of Armenia's population. This represents another important milestone in the country's digital infrastructure journey. We are confident that the infrastructure created in partnership with Viva will serve as the foundation for advanced connectivity to support next-generation digital services, including AI-based services, and innovative solutions that will benefit Armenia's economy and society," said Erensoy Bilgin, Vice President Central Europe, Turkey and Central Asia at Nokia.

"The deployment of 5G+ marks an important milestone in the development of Armenia's digital infrastructure. It creates new opportunities for the digital transformation of various sectors of the economy by enabling innovative services and solutions for both consumers and businesses. The expansion of the 5G+ network across towns of Armenia's regions will improve access to advanced digital services and contribute to more balanced digital development throughout the country. We are confident that this project, implemented in partnership with Viva, will provide an important foundation for the next generation of Armenia's digital economy," said Gevorg Ayvazyan, Country Manager/Account Director Armenia, at Ericsson.

Viva's dedication to innovation and excellence in connectivity is evident in their impressive speeds and reliability, setting them apart in Armenia” said Stephen Bye, President and CEO of Ookla. “It is with great pleasure that we present Viva with the Speedtest Award for Fastest Mobile Network during 1H 2026 in Armenia. Viva's dedication to innovation and excellence in connectivity is evident in their impressive speeds and reliability, and Ookla is proud to celebrate their success.”