Wireless News in the US, this week (Oct 21)

Briefing Doc - October 21, 2024

Main Themes:

• 5G Standalone (SA) and Advanced Technologies: The rollout of 5G SA is enabling new services and capabilities, paving the way for the adoption of 5G-Advanced features.
• Fiber Expansion and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA): Fiber deployment continues to be a priority, while FWA emerges as a competitive alternative to traditional broadband in underserved areas.
• Network APIs and Monetization: Operators are exploring new revenue streams by leveraging network APIs to offer innovative services and partnerships.
• Spectrum Acquisition and Value: Spectrum remains a valuable asset, with operators engaging in strategic transactions to acquire and optimize their spectrum holdings.

Key Insights and Facts:

Industry Consolidation and Partnerships:

• Verizon and UScellular: Verizon is acquiring spectrum licenses from UScellular for $1 billion, following a previous deal where T-Mobile purchased a significant portion of UScellular's assets.
• Verizon and Frontier Communications: Verizon has submitted a $20 billion proposal to acquire Frontier Communications to expand its fiber footprint and potentially offer bundled mobile services.
• 12 Global Telecom Operators and Ericsson: A consortium of 12 leading telecom operators, including América Móvil, AT&T, and Vodafone, has partnered with Ericsson to create a platform for developing and monetizing network APIs.

5G Standalone (SA) and Advanced Technologies:

• T-Mobile 5G SA Leadership: T-Mobile boasts a nationwide 5G SA network, positioning it as a leader in the US market.
• 5G-Advanced Rollout: T-Mobile plans to launch its first 5G-Advanced service by the end of 2024, focusing on enhanced video streaming experiences using L4S technology.
• Deutsche Telekom's 5G SA Gaming Offer: Deutsche Telekom has launched a 5G SA-based gaming service, highlighting the operator's strategy of linking 5G SA to specific use cases.

Fiber Expansion and Fixed Wireless Access (FWA):

• C Spire Fiber Focus: C Spire, a regional US carrier, has heavily invested in fiber infrastructure, leveraging it to power its wireless, residential, and business services.
• Verizon Fios Expansion in Rhode Island: Verizon is partnering with the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation to expand its Fios fiber network to underserved areas in Jamestown and Westerly.
• FWA Market Growth: The global FWA market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.4% from 2024 to 2032, driven by the demand for high-speed internet access in underserved areas.

Network APIs and Monetization:

• Global API Platform: The joint venture between 12 telecom operators and Ericsson aims to create a global platform that allows developers to access network capabilities through APIs.

Spectrum Acquisition and Value:

• Dish Network Spectrum Valuation: Analysts suggest that UScellular's spectrum deals could increase the estimated value of Dish Network's spectrum holdings to $16 billion.

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Maintaining Competition: Industry consolidation raises concerns about potential market dominance and reduced competition.
• Bridging the Digital Divide: Expanding broadband access to underserved areas remains a critical challenge and opportunity.
• Monetizing 5G Investments: Operators are seeking innovative ways to generate revenue from their substantial 5G investments.

Thank you for listening!
-Mario Mejia