On this episode of the Six Five Webcast: The 5G Factor, hosts Ron Westfall and Tom Hollingsworth discuss the promising future of 5G technology in 2025, focusing on Open RAN, direct-to-cell satellite communications, and digital out-of-home (DOOH) applications. They dive into the early efforts by the US NTIA to administer the $1.5 billion Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund to encourage Open RAN development, with a keen eye on supply chain and national security considerations, citing the Salt Typhoon cybersecurity incident as a critical factor.

Their discussion covers:

• The potential impact and benefits of the $1.5 billion Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund for Open RAN development, focusing on supply chain resilience and national security.

• An analysis of the pros and cons of federal funding in the technology sector, specifically regarding Open RAN, including how US DoD mandates for private 5G on military bases could influence its adoption.

• Future projections for the satellite industry, moving towards integrated multi-orbit space networks, and how this shift will redefine satellite communications.

• T-Mobile's acquisition of Vistar Media and its strategic move to capitalize on the accelerating momentum within the DOOH advertising market for 2025 and beyond.

• Debates on how federal initiatives and industry acquisitions might reshape the landscape of 5G, satellite communications, and advertising technologies, setting the stage for innovation and growth.