Wireless news this week, in the US (Dec 1)

Briefing Doc

Date: December 1, 2024

Executive Summary:

This briefing document explores the recent FCC approval of T-Mobile and SpaceX's Starlink direct-to-cell service, marking a significant step towards eliminating mobile dead zones. It analyzes the service's potential impact, industry reactions, and the future of cellular IoT technologies, including the rise of 5G-Advanced and RedCap.

Main Themes:

1. Eradicating Dead Zones: The partnership aims to extend T-Mobile's network coverage to remote areas with unreliable or non-existent cellular service by leveraging SpaceX's constellation of Starlink satellites.

"The initiative is all about eradicating dead spots... T-Mobile and Starlink... want to help people connect their phones to space satellites when cell towers can't cut it." - Android Central

1. Direct-to-Cell Technology: Unlike existing satellite services requiring dedicated devices, this initiative utilizes existing smartphones, potentially revolutionizing mobile connectivity.

"The carrier claims that “the vast majority of smartphones” will be compatible with the service... you won’t have to buy extra equipment or a new device to take advantage of satellite connectivity on T-Mobile." - Android Authority

1. Industry Competition: While T-Mobile and SpaceX lead the charge, competitors like Verizon and AT&T are collaborating with AST SpaceMobile to develop their own satellite-based solutions, fostering a competitive landscape in the space economy.

"Meanwhile, those two companies are working with AST SpaceMobile to develop a competing service to T-Mobile and Starlink's upcoming offering." - Android Central

1. FCC Approval and Challenges: The FCC's green light marks a crucial milestone. However, SpaceX still awaits approval for increased radio emission power to support demanding functionalities like video calls, facing resistance from competitors concerned about potential network interference.

"SpaceX is still awaiting approval for a few specific measures. It wants to boost radio emission power to support more demanding use cases for satellite connectivity, like video calls." - Android Central

1. 5G Frustrations and Future Technologies: Despite the rapid adoption of 5G, many telcos are yet to see significant financial returns. Hopes are pinned on 5G Standalone (SA) and 5G-Advanced capabilities to unlock the technology's full potential and enable new revenue streams.

"Despite these trends and statistics, 5G is regarded as a disappointment (at best), at least in terms of the impact it has had on telco revenues." - TelecomTV

Key Facts and Figures:

• By end of 2024, 5G subscriptions are projected to reach 2.3 billion globally. (Ericsson)
• 270,000+ mobile phones connected to Starlink Cellular on the first day of service availability in hurricane-affected areas. (SpaceX)
• AT&T aims to shift 70% of its network traffic onto open and interoperable platforms by 2026. (AT&T)
• Spectrum is the first major broadband provider to launch WiFi 7 routers. (Spectrum)

Future Outlook:

• The success of T-Mobile and SpaceX's direct-to-cell service could pave the way for widespread adoption of satellite-based cellular connectivity, transforming how we connect in remote areas.
• 5G-Advanced and RedCap are poised to play a crucial role in the evolution of cellular IoT, offering enhanced capabilities and addressing limitations of existing technologies.
• The cellular industry will likely witness increased competition as companies explore innovative solutions to meet the ever-growing demand for connectiv

Thank you for listening!
-Mario Mejia