A new managed detection and response service enabled by Google Security Operations will launch first in Germany; the Concierge service in Germany and Greece
Vodafone Business and Google Cloud announced an expansion of their strategic partnership with two new solutions to equip small-and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) with cybersecurity and agentic AI.[Last week Vodafone Business became the first to offer commercial 5G network slicing in the UK.]
Vodafone Business is launching a new managed detection and response (MDR) service enabled by Google Security Operations. It will improve protection for customers from increasingly frequent and sophisticated cyber threats.
The service will launch first in Germany, adhering to the region’s data protection standards, then in other European markets later this year.
AI Concierge built with Gemini
Vodafone is also introducing Vodafone Business AI Concierge with Google Gemini – the first in a suite of planned agentic AI solutions. AI Concierge is a multi-modal AI agent built on Google Cloud’s Gemini Enterprise Agent Platform and Gemini models for voice and data. They are designed to operate autonomously within a business environment.
AI Concierge has low-latency connectivity to engage naturally with customers, for example to answer inquiries and book appointments. The idea is that SMBs never miss a lead, even outside of standard business hours and allow owners to focus on higher-value growth activities.
AI Concierge will be available in Germany and Greece first.
Vodafone says the announcement is “a key milestone in the landmark $1 billion, ten-year strategic partnership signed between the two companies in October 2024”.
Without complexity
“Vodafone Business is helping millions of SMBs unlock the power of AI without the complexity,” said Fanan Henriques, Vodafone Business Product and International Business Director. “By combining our network and support with Google Cloud’s AI expertise, we’re making advanced AI practical for everyday business use – starting with innovations like AI Concierge, one of the first telephony integrations with Gemini.”
“Small businesses are the backbone of the global economy, yet they are often the most underserved when it comes to cutting-edge tech,” said Oliver Parker, vice president, global generative AI, Google Cloud. “Together with Vodafone Business, we are changing that. By combining our Gemini models and enterprise-grade security expertise with Vodafone’s deep connectivity and customer reach, we are giving SMBs the tools they need to stay protected and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.”
