Michael Tessler

The industry is buzzing about Apple's support for RCS services—it's been a hot topic lately. As someone deeply involved in the RCS world, I can barely contain my excitement. Apple has long favored its messaging platform, iMessage, over adopting RCS. Its reluctance likely stemmed from wanting to ensure user experience and security. The adoption of RCS could ramp up Apple's competition with Meta, although it won't necessarily challenge WhatsApp directly. But it's a positive move for Google and MNOs. With SMS usage dwindling, RCS was being relegated to advertising, reminders, and one-time passwords. A strong person-to-person service is also essential to complement business services, which are now a primary revenue source. Without personal messages, opening rates and campaign ROI would plummet. If Google and Apple push RCS for deeper device integration, it could shake up the OTT/messaging landscape. This could be a game changer for businesses, allowing them to connect more effectively with customers. RCS streamlines enterprise-customer communication, unlike OTT apps that require downloads. With Apple’s adoption, the gap in rich messaging functionality between platforms will narrow. As a leader in the industry, I am eager to see how this shift will reshape the dynamics of digital communication. We all need to be ready as we step into this exciting new chapter. Globe Teleservices Pte. Ltd. GTS TechLabs Rajiv Singla Sudip Chatterjee Pallavi Kudtarkar Awnish Chaudhary Alok Maurya Ranga R S (He/Him) Murthy Muniyappa Prabhat Kumar CERF Solutions Pvt. Ltd. Chris Almeida Akbar Ladak

94

2 Comments

Another one of the hidden assets in broadband networks. This is truly transformational!

20

2 Comments

New piece from me looking at what has happened to mobile revenue *in real terms* since the launch of 5G. Some key points: - It's not a pretty picture. Mobile service revenue has fallen faster since the introduction of 5G than it was falling before it - The drop is probably explained mostly by prices failing to keep up with higher levels of inflation, rather than anything directly caused by 5G - But 5G didn't really help matters. 5G added substantial new capacity that outstripped demand for data. New services (other than 5G FWA) haven't emerged - There is some cause for optimism though, as I explore in the piece (not least because inflation is much lower than it was) https://lnkd.in/eb2_gnBJ

28

Do you want to know the speed at your location?, check the complimentary interactive map provided by Ookla for mobile and fixed connections based on Q3 2024 datasets #speedtest #ookla

28

5 Comments

Some big announcements this week related to the use of #AI in Telco Mobile Networks. Timing couldn't be better as Spectrum Effect was just this week awarded the patent for the use of AI and Machine Learning Models for classifying interference types in Mobile Operator RAN networks. I have strong conviction on AI's ability to drive more efficient and effective operations of mobility networks and ultimately better outcomes for consumers of the services that mobile networks enable. We are in fantastic company to be joined on this journey with the NVIDIA, Ericsson, Nokia, and T-Mobile announcing their intentions to invest in this space. https://lnkd.in/ebB4BM9X

51

3 Comments

We in Rakuten believe that AI should empower humans not replace them. This means we have to take AI to people not have people needing to come to AI, they are too busy and it will fail. We have seen this journey already in automation where people do not have time to do something new when they need to keep the lights (or base station) on now. Remember the famous cartoon of the medieval knight rushing off to war, passing the machine gun salesman... As with all humor, there is truth lying behind... We have approached AI in telecom by empowering our experts not by promising to replace them or expecting them to be data scientists overnight. All of us are dealing with a data scientist shortage that will not get easier, so we have focused on building a platform that scales and empowers those experts, allowing them to run at speed while minimizing risk. 1. Telecom experts are too busy (don’t want) to be data scientists. 2. Mobile operators want to control their AI destinies. 3. Pure AI data platforms are not the answer. To learn more about what is already in production today in Rakuten Mobile, Inc., reach out to Rakuten Symphony Anshul Bhatt and Rahul Atri who are at #DTW

25

2 Comments

Excellent post by Javier Domínguez Lacasa about spectrum policy for midband Midband is the lifeline for Telcos to provide high-speed and reliable data services. There is no other spectrum band that offers the reach, bandwidth, and properties like midband. Unfortunately, this is a scarce resource and extremely expensive. As a scarce resource, regulators need to prioritize the benefits of the majority of users who connect daily to these services. Consider this: effective spectrum allocation can enhance network capacity by up to 50%, which directly improves service quality and user satisfaction. With 5G technology expected to cover one-third of the world’s population by 2025, the efficient use of midband spectrum becomes even more crucial. This band is essential for enabling advancements in IoT, smart cities, and autonomous vehicles, and its optimal use could significantly boost these developments. Moreover, the economic implications are substantial. A 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration can lead to a 1.5% rise in GDP in developing economies. This highlights the critical role of midband spectrum in driving not only technological innovation but also economic growth and digital inclusion. https://lnkd.in/gYtybk_s #Telecommunications #Midband #SpectrumPolicy #Connectivity #Innovation

16

Ray Le Maistre Interesting article - The perception that you have to be large is driven by an antiquated hardware model that is now proving to be high risk and vulnerable. Software companies through the use of automation can do similar with far less risk and longer staying power. Yes, Teir 1 telcos will drive growth in Open RAN but don't discount the cumulative effect of the smaller telcos moving down the Open RAN path There are 127 Open RAN technology companies in 21 countires ( https://lnkd.in/gt5nErG9 ) all (and with the possibility of) taking market share - consolidation may not be best solution given that the current consolidations are now on the edge of failure.

45

1 Comment

Reflections on a major shift in the industry affecting at least a third of rural telecom infrastructure We all know the story of Icarus and Daedalus. Icarus ignored the advice of his father, Daedalus, not to fly too close to the sun. But this never stops us challenging the limits. Sometimes it just takes more than beeswax to keep the plane in the air. Large financial resources are always useful to push a venture forward. But sometimes grit, determination, a sense of common purpose and a good corporate culture is more sustaining. read more here : https://lnkd.in/gyWm6rJu

25

6 Comments

I spent yesterday at the LS telcom Spectrum Summit, in Lichtenau near Baden Baden in southwestern Germany. LS does a range of products and services primarily for regulators and other government agencies interested in monitoring or managing #spectrum allocations, as well as telcos and enterprises running or deploying wireless #networks of all types. There were various panels and presentations on themes such as: - Outcomes from #WRC23 and insight into behind-the-scenes processes at ITU and national regulators in managing the agenda & onsite negotiations - Spectrum-sharing models, with a particular focus on sharing spectrum with the defence sector, satellite industry and (once more) 6GHz for #5G + #WiFi. There was also a good discussion by Martin Sims of PolicyTracker about whether advances in sharing fit well with current international regulatory mechanisms like WRCs. - Practicalities of #Private5G. There was a speaker and small demo booth from Siemens talking about the uses for Industrial 5G, as well as a network set up onsite in the German 3.7-3.8GHz band - What happens to the UHF band between 400-700MHz in future, especially around the longevity of broadcast TV vs. alternative use-cases - Ongoing work in the UAE to set up a comprehensive system of spectrum-monitoring and a big-data and analytics systems to optimise security & efficiency of usage - A demo of a drone-based monitoring tool and set of applications that can be used by regulators (or others) for deciding what spectrum bands are used in a given area, as well as hunting down any sources of interference. I was speaking on a panel about future models for converged networks, especially around 4G/5G/6G and satellite, Wi-Fi and other technologies. There were also presentations by GSOA about future #5G & #6G NTN integration, and a great talk by Meta about the real-world design & tech challenges in creating AR glasses, blending #WiFi, #Bluetooth and #5G. (Key takeout - use cellular via a tethered smartphone, not in the device itself, when Wi-Fi not available. Latency is less important than you think). As with last week's #EUspectrum event, there was a strong message that the 3GPP community is going to have to get used to more #spectrum sharing in future, especially for #6G, so it better get engaged and take it seriously ASAP. Also it needs to expect pushback on the idea of continual mobile data growth, and closer scrutiny of its demand forecasts. Lobbyists won't get as easy a ride in future. My own presentation is attached - basically I spoke about convergence vs. coexistence, and also the importance of divergence in some settings. I covered #indoorwireless, trains & enterprise wireless, but also noted that "spectrum efficiency" needs to take account of real-world constraints & user behaviour. Thanks to Saul Friedner for the invitatation. This was my 3rd time at the event & was very much worth the rather travel to somewhere quite remote!

74

6 Comments

If you care at all about the state of the telco industry in the context of voice and UC services, I highly recommend that you go get a copy of this Omdia report entitled "Reinventing Core Communications". This is not marketing fluff, this is a deep assessment by Evan Kirchheimer from Omdia of what has happened to us over the last 10 years and then speaks to various avenues for future growth. Spoiler alert, the status quo is not sustainable, and there are hard, proactive decisions that need to be made today. https://lnkd.in/gtgdz6-d

34

Day 2 of Predictions 2025 and Beyond: A Recap Day 2 of CCS Insight's Predictions for 2025 and Beyond was a deep dive into the future of connectivity, health tech, and so much more. We explored the evolving landscape of 5G, the rise of Open RAN, the potential of private networks, and the disruptive power of fixed wireless access. Here are some of the key highlights: ⚪ Connectivity in Focus: Kester Mann and Ian Fogg kicked things off with a fascinating discussion on the future of 5G, Open RAN, and the financial strategies shaping the telecom industry. We heard bold predictions about telecom consolidation and got a surprising glimpse into the development of 6G. ⚪ Private Networks and FWA: Luke Pearce unveiled eye-opening figures about the potential of private mobile networks and the growth of RedCap technology. Vaishali P. explored the disruptive potential of fixed wireless access (FWA) and its impact on traditional broadband services. ⚪ Health Tech Transformation: Kane McKenna took us on a journey into the future of wearables, exploring how AI will enhance their capabilities beyond simple health metrics. Maria Bell discussed the impact of generative AI on employee health and the evolving workplace, with a fascinating prediction about the future of office meetings. ⚪ Exclusive Interviews: We had insightful conversations with industry leaders, including EE CEO Marc Allera, who shared his perspectives on 5G standalone, AI in telecom, and the importance of responsible technology use for children. We also heard from TCL Europe CMO Stefan Streit about their innovative Nxtpaper initiative and its focus on children's health and safety. If you missed Day 2, you can still catch the replay and download our Predictions booklet for a comprehensive overview of our insights. https://lnkd.in/euGnmWQJ Thanks to everyone who joined us for Predictions 2025 and Beyond! We hope you found it insightful and inspiring. #CCSPredictions #Connectivity #HealthTech #FutureofTech #Innovation

9

1 Comment

𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞: 𝐍𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐨 𝐮𝐩𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 tonight from 11 am to 6 pm. Balance recharge, Pack subscription/query could be affected that time. However, Mobile voice, data, SMS, FTTH data and TV will remain unaffected. To be safe, you could recharge your #Ntc mobile and buy required data pack ahead. https://bit.ly/3QuWMEN 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: Also, if you are going to watch the Euro Cup Semifinal match of 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐯𝐬 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 on Mobile data, please subscribe to required data volume (~2GB) in advance. BTW who do you think is the winner?

3

Download the report on CPaaS API vs Network APIs     This report, written by Dean Bubley at Disruptive Analysis, clears the industry's confusion about CPaaS APIs vs. #NetworkAPIs and explains their roles in unleashing programmable network capabilities.

8

Highly Dynamic Spectrum Sharing is a key next step in spectrum sharing’s evolution. Join the conversation at the WInnForum’s new task group on the subject. More below: #spectrumsharing #winnforum #globalinnovation

6

The slowdown is real. Internet traffic growth is decelerating year-over-year. I've highlighted this observation in my recent posts. The CDN layoffs are a manifestation of these trends. The data cannot be ignored. It is a siren call for the entire broadband industry. What implications does this have for Internet 2.0? Here are my thoughts. 🤔 - The days of designing last-mile networks for maximal bandwidth will come to a close. - The realization that latency is more important than speed will spark a new race at the edge, and - Wireless networks, including FSO, will play an increasing role in both the middle and last mile Do you agree? What are your thoughts? #internet #traffic #yoy #slowdown #decelerating #cdn #fiber #fwa #fso https://lnkd.in/eQiJf3RF

22

10 Comments

Exciting news for #tech enthusiasts! #Android15 might soon enable two-way messaging over satellite in Messages application. Google's upcoming satellite feature on our Messages app will redefine how we communicate, by enabling users to stay connected even without internet or cellular service. This feature could be particularly useful in areas with poor #connectivity or during natural disasters when #communication infrastructure may be damaged or unavailable. It is indeed paving way for seamless communication even at the face of an unforeseen crises. The future of communication is here, and it's all about staying connected no matter where you are!

24

1 Comment

People stay with solutions that work for them and make their companies better. When companies learn of BleedIO’s netMESH, they realize all the solutions it can provide and improve upon current working conditions. Unlike traditional networks, netMESH does not use a hub or WiFi offering great advantages in latency, reduced downtime, greater security and cost savings. Check out one of the brightest new solutions in the connected space today. #netMESH #IOT #Retention #Innovation #EdgeComputing

1

Open networks — networks built on open standards and interoperable components — offers significant potential for innovation, cost savings, and flexibility. However, despite these advantages, telecom operators are slow to fully embrace this. Operators need to develop comprehensive strategies that outline clear steps for transitioning to open networks, including timelines, resource allocation, and risk management. How do you see the future of open networks in telecom? What steps do you think operators should take to overcome these challenges? #telecomnetworks #opennetworks #networkmanagement

9