As we inch closer to Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs) are a hot ticket item within the telecoms industry. They are a way for telco operators to provide developers with access to network capabilities, enhancing user experience and offering more efficient services, while unlocking new features otherwise not possible. APIs have unlocked opportunities across supply chains, with notable successes including app stores like Apple's and Google's, cloud services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Azure, and various consumer and enterprise services.
Technological advancements in cellular standards have been the hallmark of MWC for 2 decades, dating back to the 2G and 3G eras. This year, that will change for many reasons:
Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 is fast approaching, and ABI Research will be there once again to witness the latest innovations shaping the future of mobile technology. Based on numerous pre-briefings ahead of Barcelona, our analysts are calling the most dramatic shift in MWC's history: watch the telecoms industry finally shed its old skin. Computing and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are not just joining the party, they are taking over the entire show.
We often take cellular connectivity for granted. Without it, we can’t text our friends, access email, or contact emergency services. For enterprises, a lack of mobile coverage means software tools are deemed worthless, vital communications get shut down, and operations come to a halt. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to deliver fiber-based broadband due to geographical constraints and outdated infrastructure. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is a key connectivity solution that addresses these challenges as it does not require physical cable installation in a home or business.
Mobile network data traffic is projected to nearly triple by 2030, requiring a shift toward high-performing, programmable networks powered by openness and cloud technologies. This evolution enables service providers to offer performance based services rather than relying solely on data volume. Establishing a strong foundation for network evolution is essential for driving 5G business growth.
The demand for passive cellular antennas continues to grow as global telecommunications operators seek innovative solutions to support expanding 5G deployments and beyond. In this blog, we highlight the top passive cellular antenna vendors based on ABI Research's latest comparative analysis, focusing on their unique strengths, product capabilities, sustainability efforts, and market performance.
The year 2024 provided numerous technology trends shaping the future of nearly every industry. ABI Research analysts have been covering these developments for some time, and now it’s time to reflect upon our studies in our annual trends whitepaper. Before we dive into the list, here’s a statement from Stuart Carlaw, Chief Research Officer:
The telecommunications (telecoms) industry is in the midst of a transformational phase. Technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), network slicing, network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs), and cloud computing are setting the stage for a digital revolution. As the telecoms sector moves forward, business models are evolving, with an emphasis on next-gen network technologies and improved customer experience. Despite the progress, there are still challenges to overcome before the industry reaches its full potential in digital transformation.
In the evolving landscape of telecommunications, Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is emerging as a cornerstone technology that aims to transform how networks operate and serve mobile users. As part of the upcoming 6G era and IMT-2030 vision, ISAC holds immense potential to revolutionize cellular network capabilities. It combines communication functions with precise sensing, positioning, and tracking.
Antenna optimization plays a vital role in an ever-connected world. With 5G adoption and data generation skyrocketing, optimizing network performance is top-of-mind for enterprises and industries. Although 5G offers unprecedented bandwidth capacities and unlocks new use cases, it also requires 3X more energy to match the same coverage as a 4G/Long Term Evolution (LTE) network. Therefore, the telecommunications industry craves innovative ways to squeeze more network performance from less hardware.
