By Anshel Sag and Will Townsend
5
33 ratings
The podcast currently has 207 episodes available.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend introduces the episode, featuring Chris Sambar, President of Networks for AT&T, and Abel Avellan, CEO of AST SpaceMobile.
- The discussion kicks off with excitement about a recent rocket launch at Cape Canaveral.
Rocket Launch Impressions
- Chris Sambar shares his awe at witnessing a rocket launch for the first time.
- Highlights the enthusiasm of AST SpaceMobile's investor base present at the event.
Milestone Achievements for AST SpaceMobile
- Abel Avellan discusses the significance of having five BlueBird satellites in orbit.
- Explains the expected coverage and connectivity capabilities from the initial satellite launch.
Design and Innovation in Satellite Technology
- Avellan elaborates on the compact design and technological advancements of the BlueBird satellites.
- Emphasizes the compatibility with existing mobile phones and the broadband capabilities of the satellites.
AT&T's Strategic Partnership with AST SpaceMobile
- Chris Sambar talks about AT&T's investment in AST SpaceMobile and his role on the board.
- Describes the strategic advantage of satellite technology in providing coverage to remote areas.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
- Avellan highlights AST SpaceMobile's contribution to job creation in West Texas.
- Discusses the transition of workers from the oil and gas industry to high-tech manufacturing roles.
Bridging the Digital Divide
- Avellan expresses his passion for providing equal economic opportunities through connectivity.
- Discusses the transformative potential of mobile technology in underserved regions.
AT&T's Commitment to Connectivity
- Sambar outlines AT&T's efforts in expanding fiber networks and supporting digital learning.
- Emphasizes the importance of broadband connectivity for societal advancement.
Closing Remarks
- Townsend wraps up the discussion, expressing gratitude to the guests.
- Encourages listeners to engage with the podcast on social media and subscribe for future episodes.
Episode 205: G2 on 5G - Live from San Francisco
Welcome and Introduction
- Hosts Will Townsend and Anshel Sag kick off episode 205 from San Francisco.
- The episode features an abbreviated format with four topics, following their attendance at T-Mobile Capital Markets Day.
AST Space Mobile Satellite Launch
- Discussion on AST Space Mobile's successful launch of commercial satellites, known as Bluebirds, with SpaceX.
- The satellites serve major carriers like AT&T and Verizon, boosting AST's stock to nearly $30 a share.
- The launch signifies competition for Starlink, which is still in testing phases.
Ericsson's Mobile Network Programmability Initiative
- Ericsson announces a joint venture with mobile network operators to advance mobile network programmability.
- The initiative aims to standardize and monetize 5G networks, benefiting application developers and enterprises.
- Will and Anshel discuss the potential positive impact on Ericsson and the industry.
Verizon's Workforce Reduction
- Verizon announces a layoff of 5,000 employees, aiming to cut costs and improve profitability.
- The layoffs reflect challenges in customer retention and network performance compared to competitors like T-Mobile.
- Discussion on Verizon's efforts to enhance its network and regain market position.
Insights from T-Mobile Capital Markets Day
- Will and Anshel attended T-Mobile's event, featuring discussions with executives and industry analysts.
- T-Mobile's collaboration with OpenAI on an improved customer experience platform, branded as Intent CX, is highlighted.
- Introduction of T-Priority, a dedicated network slice for first responders, aiming to compete with AT&T's FirstNet.
- T-Mobile's partnership with Nvidia to optimize radio access networks using AI, enhancing coverage and performance.
Rapid Fire Topics
- T-Mobile tests emergency notifications via satellite with SpaceX's Starlink.
- NCAA approves AT&T's 5G helmet for deaf football players.
- Huawei releases the Mate X3 Tri-Fold, a bifold smartphone with a ten-inch screen, priced at $3,000.
Conclusion
- Will and Anshel wrap up the episode, inviting listeners to provide insights on future 5G topics.
- Encouragement to rate and subscribe to the podcast for more updates and discussions.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 204 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Co-host Anshel Sag joins the discussion, and they wish everyone a happy Labor Day weekend.
Labor Day Plans and Personal Updates
- Anshel Sag shares his plans to attend IFA in Berlin before the upcoming Apple event.
- Will Townsend talks about watching the Longhorns' home opener in Austin and his connection to Fort Collins.
AT&T's Generative AI Strategy
- Will Townsend discusses an article about AT&T's head of AI and their broad strategy for generative AI.
- The conversation covers AT&T's use of AI for network lifecycle management, retiring copper infrastructure, and the potential for an autonomous network.
- Anshel Sag highlights the cost optimization benefits of AI for large companies like AT&T.
Apple's Upcoming Event
- Anshel Sag previews Apple's September 9 event, focusing on the expected launch of the iPhone 16 and AI advancements.
- Discussion on potential updates to the Apple Watch and AirPods, with less emphasis on new MacBooks.
Deutsche Telekom's 5G Standalone Strategy
- Will Townsend talks about Deutsche Telekom's plans to roll out 5G standalone with a focus on bespoke service offerings like cloud gaming and network slicing.
- Anshel Sag questions the infrastructure readiness and the monetization strategy for these new services.
Inseego's New FWA Router
- Anshel Sag introduces Inseego's new FWA router, which supports all three major U.S. carriers and offers dual SIM functionality.
- The router is designed for small and medium businesses, providing flexibility and advanced security features.
U.S. Rural 5G Fund
- Will Townsend revisits the U.S. Rural 5G Fund, a $9 billion initiative to improve rural broadband access that has been on pause since 2020.
- Anshel Sag expresses skepticism about the fund's potential impact and the lack of satellite technology in the discussion.
Huawei's Revenue Rebound
- Anshel Sag discusses Huawei's 34% year-on-year revenue growth and 17% increase in net profit.
- The conversation covers Huawei's diversification into automotive and cloud services, and their continued competitiveness despite challenges.
Closing Remarks
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag wrap up the episode, wishing listeners a great Labor Day weekend.
- They invite audience engagement and feedback on future 5G topics via social media.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 203 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Introduction of fellow analyst Anshel Sag.
Nokia's 4G Connectivity on the Moon
- Discussion on Nokia outfitting Artemis 3 lunar mission spacesuits with 4G connectivity.
- Benefits of LTE network capability for astronauts, including helmet-mounted video cameras.
Air Five's Converged Gateway Product
- Introduction of Air Five, a new company combining 5G and cable infrastructure.
- Discussion on the potential applications and deployment of this hybrid technology.
Ericsson's Private Networking Opportunities
- Analysis of Ericsson's position in the private networking market.
- Insights into the integration of Cradlepoint with Ericsson and the potential for joint development.
Google Pixel 9 Review
- Anshel Sag shares his experience with the new Google Pixel 9.
- Highlights include build quality, AI features, and camera capabilities.
SK Telecom's AI Cloud Services
- Announcement of SK Telecom's partnership with Lambda to offer GPU as a service.
- Discussion on the potential impact and innovation in AI cloud services.
China Mobile's Milestone
- China Mobile surpasses 1 billion subscribers, with over 527 million on 5G.
- Insights into the growth and future of 5G adoption in China.
Closing Remarks
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag invite listeners to provide insights on future 5G topics.
- Encouragement to rate, subscribe, and tune in next week.
Episode 202: The G2 on 5G Podcast
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 202 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Introduction of fellow analyst Anshel Sag.
- Overview of the episode's structure: six topics covered in about 20 minutes.
FTC Rulings on Fake Reviews and Testimonials
- Discussion on recent FTC rulings prohibiting fake reviews and testimonials.
- Anshel Sag provides insights on the implications of these rulings.
- Exploration of how mobile networks might contribute to the problem of fake reviews.
Impact of Mobile Networks on Fake Reviews
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag discuss the role of mobile networks in the proliferation of fake reviews.
- Examination of how mobile technology can be used to amplify fake reviews.
- Consideration of the enforcement challenges the FTC might face.
Google Pixel 9 Launch
- Anshel Sag introduces the new Google Pixel 9 and its features.
- Overview of the AI capabilities integrated into the Pixel 9 and other devices.
- Discussion on the broader ecosystem of Google products, including the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2.
SK Telecom's AI Strategy
- Will Townsend discusses SK Telecom's focus on AI and their pyramid strategy.
- Analysis of SK Telecom's investments in AI companies like OpenAI and Anthropic.
- Exploration of the potential for SK Telecom to lead in AI applications within the telecom industry.
Department of Defense and 5G
- Anshel Sag talks about the Department of Defense's plans for integrating 5G.
- Discussion on the potential use of integrated sensing and communications in military applications.
- Examination of the financial and logistical challenges faced by the DoD in deploying 5G networks.
Mobile Network Programmability
- Will Townsend previews an upcoming analyst insight on mobile network programmability.
- Discussion on the slow adoption of network programmability and recent advancements.
- Mention of key players like Ericsson, Nokia, and the GSMA in driving this technology forward.
Oracle and AT&T Partnership
- Anshel Sag discusses the renewed partnership between Oracle and AT&T.
- Overview of how Oracle's cloud applications will integrate with AT&T's network for IoT connectivity.
- Analysis of the benefits for enterprise customers and the potential for future innovations.
Closing Remarks
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag wrap up the episode.
- Invitation for listeners to provide feedback and suggest future topics.
- Reminder to rate and subscribe to the podcast.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 201 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Introduction of fellow analyst Anshel Sag.
T-Mobile's Initiative with Channel Partners
- Discussion on T-Mobile's collaboration with Ingram Micro and Tech Data Synnex.
- Introduction of the Partner Plus program to subsidize 5G connected PCs and fixed wireless access solutions.
- Subsidies include up to $400 off PCs and up to $700 off Cradlepoint's fixed wireless access CPE products.
- Potential savings for businesses up to $1,600 per router adapter and over $400 per connected PC.
- Challenges around provisioning devices and the need for a marketing campaign to raise awareness.
5G Baseband Vulnerability at Black Hat
- Anshel Sag discusses a 5G baseband vulnerability revealed at the Black Hat security conference.
- Vulnerability allows devices to be tricked into connecting to fake cell towers, enabling phishing attacks.
- Researchers created a tool called 5G Base Checker to identify vulnerabilities in various phones.
- Companies like Samsung and Google have patched these flaws, while MediaTek and Qualcomm have yet to respond.
Nokia and Swisscom's Drone Partnership
- Will Townsend talks about Nokia's partnership with Swisscom for drone emergency response and industrial use cases.
- Nokia has prepared 300 "drone in a box" units for public safety and infrastructure inspections.
- Discussion on the broader applications of drones in industries like window washing.
Vodafone UK's 5G Standalone Service
- Anshel Sag highlights Vodafone UK's launch of 5G standalone service for enterprises.
- Research indicates 39% of UK companies are ready to invest in 5G standalone.
- Vodafone's 5G Ultra service promises lower latency, more reliability, and better battery life.
- Examples of network slicing applications include ITN, UK Power Networks, and gaming.
China's Entry into the LEO Satellite Space Race
- Will Townsend discusses China's recent entry into the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite space race.
- China aims to launch 108 satellites this year and 15,000 by 2030 for global network coverage.
- Discussion on the potential impact and competitiveness of China's LEO satellite initiative.
Pentagon's 5G Applications for Defense
- Anshel Sag talks about the Pentagon's use of 5G for enhancing warfighting capabilities.
- Deployment of Anduril-made towers using tactical radios for high-resolution video security in Africa.
- Future G's role in advancing 5G and transitioning to 6G for the US Department of Defense.
Conclusion
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag wrap up the episode.
- Invitation for listeners to provide insights on future 5G topics.
- Contact information: Will Townsend (@willtowntech) and Anshel Sag (@anshelsag).
- Encouragement to tune in next week.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to the 200th episode of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Introduction of fellow analyst Anshel Sag.
- Overview of the episode's format: six topics in about 20 minutes.
AWS vs. Nokia Lawsuit
- Will Townsend discusses AWS's lawsuit against Nokia over telco cloud intellectual property.
- Background on Nokia's exit from the cloud platform business and partnership with AWS in Germany.
- Speculation on the lawsuit's outcome and potential settlement.
Earnings Reports Overview
- Anshel Sag covers recent earnings reports from major tech companies.
- Highlights include:
- Arm's earnings and stock performance.
- Qualcomm's record quarter and growth in automotive and smartphone sectors.
- AMD's data center growth and challenges in the gaming sector.
- Intel's disappointing earnings and layoffs.
- T-Mobile's strong performance and growth in postpaid subscribers.
T-Mobile's Rural Connectivity Initiative
- Will Townsend discusses T-Mobile's focus on rural connectivity.
- Introduction of the "Friday Night 5G Lights" contest, offering $2 million for a high school football field makeover.
- Emphasis on T-Mobile's innovative marketing and community engagement.
Qualcomm's Snapdragon 4S Gen 2
- Anshel Sag introduces Qualcomm's new Snapdragon 4S Gen 2 platform.
- Discussion on its potential impact on the value smartphone market.
- Comparison with MediaTek's offerings and the importance of affordable 5G devices in developing regions.
Nokia's Network as a Code Platform
- Will Townsend explains Nokia's recent announcement related to its network as a code platform.
- Overview of Nokia's partnership with Fontinius Acolyte for healthcare and utility sector use cases.
- Discussion on the value of programmability and open APIs in network development.
Ookla's Global Standalone 5G Report
- Anshel Sag reviews Ookla's report on global standalone 5G networks.
- Key findings include:
- T-Mobile and SK Telecom's leadership in 5G SA.
- The lag in European 5G SA deployments.
- The importance of spectrum and carrier aggregation for network performance.
Conclusion
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag reflect on the episode's topics.
- Invitation for listeners to provide insights on future 5G topics.
- Encouragement to rate, subscribe, and tune in next week.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 199 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Discussion about the upcoming milestone of episode 200 and a call for listener feedback on how to celebrate it.
T-Mobile's Fiber Investment
- Will Townsend discusses T-Mobile's $5 billion investment in a joint venture with KKR to purchase Metronet.
- The strategic move aims to enhance T-Mobile's 5G fixed wireless access services and provide fiber backhaul for radio towers.
- Anshel Sag adds insights on Metronet's regional focus, particularly in the Midwest and Texas, and the potential benefits for T-Mobile's rural coverage.
AST SpaceMobile's Satellite Deployment
- Anshel Sag covers AST SpaceMobile's announcement of the completion and upcoming launch of its first five commercial satellites, Bluebirds.
- The satellites will enhance 5G communication capabilities and have garnered investments from major companies like AT&T, Verizon, Google, and Vodafone.
- Will Townsend shares his experience visiting AST SpaceMobile's facilities and highlights the company's efficient satellite design and ambitious plans.
CrowdStrike's Major Outage
- Will Townsend discusses the significant outage experienced by CrowdStrike due to a flawed update, impacting various businesses including Delta and Starbucks.
- The incident highlights the importance of rigorous DevOps practices and offers learning opportunities for mobile network operators.
- Anshel Sag provides additional context on the technical aspects of the outage and the broader implications for the cybersecurity industry.
Apple's Potential Move Away from Qualcomm Modems
- Anshel Sag addresses rumors that Apple may start using its own 5G modems in lower-volume products like the iPhone SE, potentially phasing out Qualcomm modems.
- The transition, if it happens, would mark a significant shift in Apple's strategy and could impact the broader 5G modem market.
- Will Townsend reflects on the long timeline since Apple acquired Intel's modem business and the challenges involved in developing in-house modems.
T-Mobile for Business Unconventional Awards
- Will Townsend shares his experience as a judge for the T-Mobile for Business Unconventional Awards, which recognize innovative uses of 5G technology.
- This year's categories include innovation in customer experience, employee enablement, industry, and community.
- The event will feature Malcolm Gladwell as the master of ceremonies and introduce a new "Tipping Point" designation for transformative change.
AT&T Earnings Report
- Anshel Sag reviews AT&T's recent earnings report, highlighting strong postpaid net additions and low phone churn rates.
- Despite slightly missing revenue targets, AT&T's focus on its core business and fiber expansion has been well-received by investors.
- Will Townsend adds that AT&T's improved free cash flow and consistent fiber net adds demonstrate the company's effective execution and growth potential.
Closing Remarks
- Anshel Sag wraps up the episode, inviting listeners to provide feedback and suggesting topics for future podcasts.
- Encourages listeners to rate, subscribe, and tune in next week.
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 198 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Apologies for the delay due to Will's vacation and roof construction.
- Brief discussion about their Fourth of July activities.
Hurricane Barrel and Disaster Communication Efforts
- Will Townsend discusses Hurricane Barrel's impact on South Texas.
- Highlights the efforts of AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in restoring connectivity.
- AT&T used drone technology for temporary connectivity.
- T-Mobile utilized satellite cells on trucks.
- Verizon focused on ensuring backup systems were operational.
Insights on Disaster Response
- Anshel Sag shares his thoughts on the preparedness of carriers for natural disasters.
- Mentions his near experience with the hurricane while in New York City.
- Emphasizes the increasing frequency and severity of natural storms.
Galaxy Unpacked Event
- Anshel Sag reports on the Galaxy Unpacked event held in New York.
- Overview of new product announcements: Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Galaxy Watch Ultra, Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Ring, and new earbuds.
- Discussion on the features and improvements of the new devices.
- Anshel's personal excitement about the Galaxy Ring and its features.
Germany's Rip and Replace of Chinese Infrastructure
- Will Townsend discusses Germany's efforts to replace Huawei infrastructure.
- Germany's initial commitment to replace hardware by 2026, now focusing on management layer software by 2029.
- Concerns about the potential backdoors in Chinese software.
- Anshel Sag's perspective on Germany's slow progress and the challenges involved.
Boost Mobile's Rebranding and New Plans
- Anshel Sag talks about Boost Mobile's rebranding under Dish.
- Introduction of new plans and pricing, starting at $25 per month.
- Comparison with Mint Mobile and other competitors.
- Anshel's anticipation to test Boost Mobile's service.
Ericsson's Vonage Acquisition and API Strategy
- Will Townsend discusses Ericsson's recent earnings call and the challenges with the Vonage acquisition.
- Ericsson's CEO remains optimistic about the long-term potential of API strategy.
- Discussion on the initial write-off and the need for significant monetization.
- Anshel Sag's critical view on the acquisition and its potential for future revenue.
Nokia's Earnings Report
- Anshel Sag covers Nokia's recent earnings report and the significant decline in profit.
- Impact of India's reduced 5G deployment on Nokia's earnings.
- Discussion on Nokia's challenges and potential bright spots in private networking and security.
- Will Townsend's optimistic view on Nokia's future prospects.
Conclusion
- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag wrap up the podcast.
- Apologies for the previous week's absence due to personal and professional commitments.
- Invitation for listeners to provide feedback and suggestions for future topics.
- Encouragement to rate and subscribe to the podcast.
Episode 197: The G2 on 5G - Key Highlights
Welcome and Introduction
- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 197 of the G2 on 5G podcast.
- Introduction of fellow analyst Anshel Sag.
Nokia's Acquisition of Infinera
- Will discusses Nokia's recent announcement to acquire Infinera for over $2 billion.
- The acquisition aims to strengthen Nokia's optical networking and component business.
- Potential benefits include increased access to the North American market and entry into data centers.
- Anshel questions whether the sale of Nokia's submarine cable business to the French government was required for the acquisition.
Generative AI and Data Centers
- Will highlights the relevance of the acquisition to generative AI and data centers.
- Anshel notes the stability and long-term benefits of Nokia's wireline businesses.
3GPP Release 18 and 5G Advanced
- Anshel discusses the finalization of 3GPP Release 18 standards, marking the 5G Advanced era.
- Release 18 includes enhancements for IoT, XR, AI, and ML applications.
- The importance of standalone deployment for utilizing Release 18 features.
AT&T's 5G RedCap Launch
- Will talks about AT&T's soft launch of 5G RedCap in the Dallas metropolitan area.
- The significance of RedCap for IoT applications and AT&T's vertical market focus.
- Anshel discusses the potential consumer and enterprise applications of RedCap.
India's 5G Spectrum Auction
- Will covers the recent 5G spectrum auction in India, which netted only $1.3 billion compared to $18 billion in 2022.
- Speculation on the reasons behind the lackluster auction, including slow monetization and deployment of previously acquired spectrum.
- Discussion on the potential benefits of democratizing access to licensed spectrum for private networking.
FCC's Proposed Rule on Unlocking Phones
- Anshel explains the FCC's proposed rule to require mobile providers to unlock phones within 60 days of activation.
- Concerns about the financial risk to carriers and the practicality of unlocking postpaid devices.
- Suggestion to mandate unlocking for prepaid phones and maintaining current rules for postpaid devices.
Verizon's Concerns Over 4.9 GHz Spectrum for FirstNet
- Anshel discusses Verizon's opposition to the FCC potentially giving 4.9 GHz spectrum to AT&T for FirstNet.
- Analysis of the spectrum's value and its suitability for small cell deployments.
- The potential impact on Verizon's competitiveness and the overall 5G landscape.
Closing Remarks
- Will and Anshel share their upcoming travel plans and wish listeners a happy 4th of July.
- Encouragement for listeners to rate, subscribe, and provide feedback on future 5G topics.
Contact Information
- Will Townsend: @WillTownTech
- Anshel Sag: @AnshelSag
Next Episode
- The podcast will take a break for the 4th of July and return the following week.
The podcast currently has 207 episodes available.
1,260 Listeners
1,625 Listeners
4,205 Listeners
12 Listeners
2 Listeners
12,594 Listeners
660 Listeners
20 Listeners
5,613 Listeners
103 Listeners
9 Listeners
94 Listeners
663 Listeners
154 Listeners
27 Listeners