Gartner’s latest trends outline six pivotal shifts in infrastructure and operations by 2025. These insights provide I&O leaders with a roadmap to navigate future challenges and opportunities.
Open Gateway, initiated by GSMA, is set to redefine mobile networks with standardized telecom APIs, underpinning 5G’s potential. With coverage from 67 global operators, it aims to streamline developer interaction and offers vast opportunities for API-driven fraud prevention, edge computing, and digital transformation.
Congress is tackling the challenge of replacing Chinese telecommunications equipment in U.S. networks by funding the “rip and replace” initiative. This boosts efforts to remove potential threats and secure rural telecommunications connections.
European telecom operators face formidable challenges in phasing out copper networks by 2030, as highlighted in a BEREC report. The EU’s ambitious goal to enhance digital capacity with complete 5G and fiber connectivity underscores significant obstacles.
The latest GSMA report indicates limited progress by hyperscalers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud in embracing the Open Gateway initiative for mobile networks. Telecom vendors such as Ericsson and Nokia are advancing API initiatives.
Microsoft has sold its former private 5G unit, Metaswitch, to Alianza, signaling a shift in its telecom strategy. While Microsoft’s 5G efforts struggled, this deal enables Alianza to modernize telecom infrastructure for over 1,000 service providers, enhancing cloud-native and AI-driven services.
Nokia and stc Group have successfully trialed a generative AI solution to enhance telecom services, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and speeding up service delivery. The “AI for Provisioning Services” project streamlines network management, benefiting businesses and communities.
In an unprecedented move, the US FCC seeks to enhance cybersecurity for telecom operators, addressing vulnerabilities exposed by a severe hack. With a focus on advanced cyber defenses, the FCC proposes stringent rules compelling carriers to fortify their networks against sophisticated threats.
The UK telecom landscape is transforming with the £15 billion merger between Vodafone and Three, approved by the Competition and Market’s Authority. This merger will create the largest UK mobile network operator, impacting 29 million users.
The ITU and ICPC have united to create an advisory body focused on boosting submarine cable resilience. This critical initiative addresses vulnerabilities of cables that manage 99% of global data transfers, facing threats like damage and sabotage.
