Yigal Elbaz

The interim Brief is out. We discuss T-Mobile's earnings a bit and also the NTIA comments concerning non-fiber technologies made at last week's Fiber Connect conference. More inside... #sundaybrief

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Lumen: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Lumen is enjoying a Renaissance under new CEO, Kate Johnson. She recognized the hard truth that Lumen had too much debt and managed to sell the South American and European assets above fair value to Colt and one other player. Less widely known is that Lumen sold off its ILEC business to Brightspeed for $7.5 billion. In addition, she is focusing on fibre-to-the-home deployment as opposed to trying to protect legacy twisted copper wire assets. Many telecom CEOs are unable to make the hard choice of cannibalizing or selling slow growth PSTN services like POTs and DSL in order to deploy new, technologically more advanced services. But the stock market approves the strategy as far sighted. Furthermore, Johnson has recognized that Lumen should finally integrate its five networks into one. These five networks reflect purchases of distressed assets that previous CEOs made over 15 years ago, including Qwest Communications, Time Warner Telecom, Global Crossing, and others. Integration is estimated to slash network expenses by a billion USD a year. If Lumen has integrated these assets in a timely fashion, Lumen's shareholders would be about $15 billion dollars richer today. It would still have its international assets and be a global player. Kate Johnson is making Lumen's focus the AI industry. This is good marketing and investors are likely to buy it short term. Nonetheless, AI has all the marking of a gigantic bubble as the revenue potential of generative AI is limited and certainly not great enough to justify the massive investments in the sector. Large language models are simply gigantic nonlinear statistical models that ape whatever language samples are used to estimate them. Reasoning ability is extremely limited. If a model was estimated using Donald Trump's tweets, it would insist that the 2020 election was stolen and that he is the most oppressed man on the planet. This so-called AI is basically regurgitation. It will be sensible if trained on the Wall Street and New York Times or downright crazy if trained on the proceedings of the Flat Earth Society. It is likely Lumen will benefit from being a partner of the Digital Titans, but I suspect the growth benefit will peter out in a few years when AI undergoes its own crisis just like the bursting of the dotcom bubble in 2000. I would focus more on reducing head count as transport and transit services can be profitable, but only if the company is lean and mean. I wish Lumen the best of luck. #lumen #renaissance #integration #leverage #katejohnson #ai

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Boost Mobile and Wind River collaborate on the largest CaaS vendor changeover on an Open RAN network! Another great win for #WindRiver, and a moment of reflection. My takes from this success are three. Never give up. My colleagues had a dream (sound familiar?) and pursued it despite headwinds/adversities and delays. Perseverance and constancy gave them (and the client) the sense of being the right choice. Reputation is like a bee; it can fly but can sting you. An incumbent position is not a fixed status, it is not granted, and you need to maintain it and gain it every time. Challenge yourself. You can be Goliath tomorrow so, don’t forget you were David. Focus on what’s next, your client, be grounded, and don’t let the other determine who you are. Well done team! #WeAreWindRiver #StarlingX #CoreToEdge 🔗Learn more: https://ow.ly/iVMl30sIwTn

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Ugh - not good news for the #ucaas ecosystem. Another writedown for Vonage, as the synergies for Ericsson to help carriers sell API-led applications and solutions to enterprises aren't happening, at least fast enough. Actually, this has minimal impact on #ucaas, but the game plan here is based on Vonage having a strong installed base for comms solutions to pave the way #network and #wireless services. UC Today #ucoms

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I enjoyed the discussion and insights from GSMA and others on Private 5G deployment use cases and what it takes to drive adoption.

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Verizon's planned acquisition of Frontier, which includes assets Verizon once owned, may trigger a domino effect in the industry. Analysts predict that this move will prompt other carriers and cable companies to seek acquisitions that enable them to offer bundled services. (the "convergence" strategy) The big question arising from this development is whether industry convergence is the sole path to growth. Additionally, two lighthearted but thought-provoking questions emerge: 1. Would it have been cheaper to just keep the assets in the first place? 2. Are we on the brink of reverting to the mega-monopoly reminiscent of the historic Bell System era? Read more about this significant industry development on CNN: https://lnkd.in/dSjpPBxX

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we just filed a new report and analysis on data caps-- this is about whamming -- and being surprised that this common problem has not been addressed by the FCC, especially in relation to low income and low users of wireless broadband services. Anyone can check their cell phone and app usage, but as we are learning from in formal surveys, customers are clueless. Whamming is a collection of issues -- but is is egregious acts in billing -- no one discusses the idea that all usage is now rounded up and charges can be for 'network overhead' or when the service doesn't connect. -- increased sizes of every aspect of connectivity, --and the ability to make money off if it at the expense of the customers-- is just getting worse.

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Rakuten Symphony is so appreciative to AT&T for being included in its network simplification transformation program. Thank you to all the AT&T executives who have given us this chance to be part of an industry-changing program. Mike Dano's article captures so many aspects of what is required to be successful in an undertaking like this. It starts with the fundamentals of using different words to describe what is being done. "I think the word 'cell site' goes away," AT&T's Todd Zeiler said. "I think this pivots to a world of CU, DU, RU. Servers and access points." Before we built mobile networks. Today we start building distributed data center operations where the primary user is a mobile network. We see so many parallels between how AT&T is approaching this and how Rakuten Symphony already approached it. The hope is we can discover an industry blueprint that can make sense for the whole of telecom to be able to follow and accelerate the change to being a truly software-driven cloud-native operation. From Mike Dano's below article when describing the vendors involved "One is Japan's Rakuten Symphony. According to The Mobile Network, AT&T counts roughly 7,000 users of Rakuten Symphony's Site Manager software within its own and its contractor construction teams. The software automates parts of AT&T's site deployment processes." To listen to the full discussion between Yigal Elbaz and Sharad Sriwastawa at MWC BCN this year click here https://lnkd.in/e5ErFYJg To learn more about Rakuten Symphony Site Management solution click here https://lnkd.in/eq8Bsx27

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It may be a little early to put a nail in this coffin, but the device upgrade "super cycle" seems to be eluding US carriers. Was this to be expected? With #AI trending across tech sectors throughout 2024, software is being used more and more to differentiate products. Are customers ready for that? Are customer using it? Are sales reps in retail location equipped to sell? Devices *used* to be different because of the hardware - memory, battery life, camera, form factor, etc - but more and more software is the driver. Selling software is a much different process than selling hardware. I, for one, use a fraction of my smartphone's capabilities...and I'm pretty sure I'm not alone. So what gives first? Can hardware become a differentiator again? Or can sales channels (and users) be trained to use their devices enough that they can realize the differentiation? #ATT #Verizon #supercycle #upgrade https://lnkd.in/gK8D7wpW

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Telecom vendor selection isn't the same as other procurement. So if your vendor selection process tries to: - Only factor in price, - Rely on outdated information, - Overlook location-specific coverage... ...expect it to create sub-optimal connectivity at best, business disruption at worst. This one-size-fits-all approach might work in centralized procurement but in telecom - it falls short. Which is why I'm equal parts surprised & not surprised it's so common. Surprised because it's clearly the wrong approach. But also not surprised because it's easy to see how we got here... Telecom used to be very centralized. And, at that time, this made perfect sense. The carriers were limited. The options were standardized. Most services didn't leave the bounds of the office. These stakeholders needed to be able to control costs. The process supported that. It was only when remote work did end-users start having sway over connectivity decisions. In response, telecom procurement corrected course. But it over-corrected. And now the correction needs correcting. I'm not saying throw out procurement best practices. But I am saying that it should enable productivity as quickly & efficiently as possible. Eliminate the guesswork. Keep the oversight.

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The latest #Verizon ads for the iPhone have left me thoroughly impressed. While many operators’ campaigns are creative and compelling, most focus on bundles, features, or pricing—important but predictable. Verizon, however, takes a refreshingly different approach: practical problems and empathy, making them truly stand out for me. These ads highlight everyday accidents we all encounter with our phones—slipping into liquids, cracking under impact, or shattering from an unexpected fall. Instead of just selling features, Verizon offers a simple, powerful, and empathetic solution: trade in any phone, any condition. This resonates deeply with customers because iPhones are more than just devices—they are essential extensions of our lives. Verizon’s message is simple: when the unexpected happens, we are here for you. The subtle yet powerful music in the background feels like a rescue mission, reinforcing the idea that Verizon is your angel in times of need. These ads embody what I call “Magnetic Advertising”—a term I coined to describe campaigns that attract attention, resonate deeply, and inspire action. Magnetic Advertising connects and compels—it doesn’t just inform. It leverages #emotion, #humor, and #empathy to resonate with customers' needs and pain points, driving action by solving real problems. Verizon nailed it here. Their message is not about the phone—it is about you. The subtle music, relatable scenarios, and empowering promise—"We’ve got you covered"—make this campaign a masterclass in emotional resonance. Famous Brand Positioning Statements: 1. Apple sells innovation, not phones. 2. Rolex sells status, not watches. 3. Lego sells creativity, not toys. 4. Nike sells motivation, not shoes. 5. Coca-Cola sells happiness, not drinks. 6. Tesla sells the future, not cars. Along the same lines, I imagine that: 7. “Verizon sells dependability, not just connections." #Dependability embodies Verizon's strong network, extensive coverage, and the emotional reassurance of being there for customers in crucial moments. Success is about selling emotions, not products. Verizon has done this before. Their iconic “Can you hear me now?” campaign addressed a common customer pain point and set the gold standard. With this iPhone campaign, they have done it again. Kudos to Verizon! Disclaimer: As a telecom industry enthusiast who monitors and researches the field, these are my personal opinions and insights, not representative of any organization. #Verizon #Telecom #MarketingStrategy #MagneticAdvertising #Leadership #DoSomethingGreat

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🌐 The telecom sector in the US is gearing up for notable expansion in the coming years. Industry giants like AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast are channeling substantial resources into research and development, paving the way for cutting-edge advancements. The telecom landscape is set for exciting change with these leaders driving progress. Follow InteleCOM for the latest updates and developments in this ever-evolving industry. If you need assistance upgrading your building's telecom connectivity, give us a like and reach out—we're here to help! 📲 Contact us today at 703-282-7065 | [email protected] or Schedule a meeting here at https://lnkd.in/dAdnhhYM #Telecom #Telecommunications #TechUpdates #USMarket #Innovation #R&D #ATT #Verizon #Comcast #InteleCOM #IndustryUpdates #MarketExpansion #TechNews #BusinessAdvancement #FutureOfTelecom

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Interesting development with T-Mobile acquiring US Cellular. This move will surely bring changes to the industry landscape. It will be important to watch how this merger impacts both companies and their customers and their suppliers. #telecom #merger

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The FCC's recent announcement to invest $9 billion in 5G deployments in rural areas of the US is a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and ensuring access to the internet for even the most remote US regions. The FCC's commitment to rural 5G deployment was unveiled in 2020. However, recent bipartisan support has reignited the scheme, paving the way for renewed focus and investment. The plan aims to distribute $9 billion over the next decade to deliver coverage to the 14 million homes and businesses that currently don't have access to 5G. Phase 1 of the scheme will now involve a multi-round reverse auction to distribute the funds for 5G deployments in areas of the country unlikely to see unsubsidised deployment of 5G-capable networks otherwise. While traditional terrestrial infrastructure solutions like cable and fibre optic networks are often impractical or cost-prohibitive in rural areas, satellite networks will likely also offer a viable alternative. Companies like Amazon's Project Kuiper and SpaceX's STARLINK are launching constellations of low-orbit satellites that can provide high-speed internet access to even the most remote locations. The recent exclusive deal between Starlink and T-Mobile offers a glimpse of how this new technology could be plugged into the broader tapestry of connectivity in areas where terrestrial broadband may be complex commercially or technically. Satellite internet has limitations, such as higher latency and potential weather interference. However, it is a rapidly evolving technology that is becoming increasingly affordable and reliable. As satellite networks continue to develop, they have the potential to play a significant role in closing the digital divide and connecting the unconnected around the world. The FCC's investment in rural 5G is a positive step, but it is essential to remember that satellite networks also have a role to play. As satellite technology develops, it will become an increasingly important tool for connecting the unconnected worldwide. #5G #connectivity #digitaldivide #satellite

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Incredibly large $ amounts have been raised worldwide by auctioning spectrum. Interestingly, here are some number for different countries: $3.91 per MHz/Pop for 900 MHz in Thailand $3.57 per MHz/Pop for 900 MHz in India $3.02 per MHz/Pop for 900 MHz in Hong Kong $2.99 per MHz/Pop for 700 MHz in Canada $2.70 per MHz/Pop for 1700 MHz in the U.S. Here's a short note on how auctions compare with other approaches to offering spectrum: https://lnkd.in/g8k5N7cM

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Was 5G a failure? You be the judge. Geoff Hollingworth at Rakuten Symphony and I sparred about this topic and we have opposite views, but I will not spoil it for you. What I can say is that it was quite a lively discussion that covered many topics, including monetization, 6G, Wi-Fi, 3GPP and, maybe surprisingly, communism. https://lnkd.in/e7846ZwN Let us know what your verdict is #SparringPartners #5G #6G #3GPP #monetization

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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!

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Connectivity is key to many futuristic advancements we once thought to be far off and far-fetched. Those of us in telecom are aiding these advancements through innovations in fiber and wireless data connectivity, alongside the enabling SaaS and consulting services that support the telecom ecosystem. 22 years ago, in the movie "Minority Report," several technologies that seemed so distant are now becoming reality. Big data, AI, and more and faster internet connectivity are bringing and have brought many of these technologies to our lives. Watch the movie if you haven’t seen it, and rewatch it if you have. Today, companies use algorithms to analyze our online behavior and tailor ads specifically to us, similar to the targeted ads in the movie. United Airlines just announced they would be using tailored advertising for their in-flight entertainment. (They say you can opt-out of it.) Facial and biomechanical motion recognition technology has also advanced significantly. The movie showed gesture-based interfaces, similar to today's VR and AR advancements, and self-driving cars, which I saw being provided by Zook this week in Vegas. Additionally, retinal scans for identification, touchless interfaces, and real-time language translation were shown in the movie and are seeing real-world applications today. A key to actually applying all those technologies and the ones on the horizon is robust connectivity. The ability to process and transmit vast amounts of data in real-time helps make the future become the present at an ever-increasing pace. The telecom industry has played and will continue to play a big role in the practical day-to-day application of technological advancements. Telecom pulls things together, distributes things out, and brings these advancements to their users. #telecommunications #connectivity, #motivation #success #mindset #growth #SolutionsAsAService

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