The G2 on 5G Podcast by Moor Insights & Strategy

Welcome and Introduction

- Episode 208 of the G2 on 5G podcast kicks off with hosts Will Townsend and Anshel Sag.

- Apologies for the recent absence due to extensive travel schedules.

Snapdragon Summit Insights

- Will Townsend shares his experience attending the Snapdragon Summit in Maui.

- Focus on AI-first experiences and Qualcomm's advancements in mobility and automotive sectors.

- Discussion on the Snapdragon 8 Elite, likened to a mini data center tech stack.

Qualcomm and ARM Dispute

- Anshel Sag delves into the ongoing IP dispute between Qualcomm and ARM.

- Exploration of the implications for both companies and the potential impact on the industry.

- Discussion on the role of Nuvia's acquisition by Qualcomm in the dispute.

AST Space Mobile Developments

- Will Townsend highlights AST Space Mobile's recent achievements, including a Department of Defense contract.

- Discussion on the company's role in the HALO program and future satellite launches.

iPhone 16 Reception

- Anshel Sag discusses the mixed reception of the iPhone 16 in the U.S. market.

- Analysis of generous carrier offers and their impact on sales figures.

- Insights into Apple's strategic moves and the introduction of Apple Intelligence.

Earnings Season Overview

- Will Townsend reviews recent earnings reports from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

- Highlights include T-Mobile's strong FWA 5G growth and AT&T's steady performance.

- Discussion on Verizon's challenges and the innovative converged gateway product from AT&T.

FirstNet Spectrum Expansion

- Anshel Sag covers the FCC's decision to grant FirstNet additional spectrum.

- Examination of the potential benefits for first responders and the broader implications for AT&T.

Conclusion and Audience Engagement

- Encouragement for listeners to provide feedback and suggest future topics.

- Contact information for Will Townsend and Anshel Sag shared for audience interaction.

Episode 207: G2 on 5G - Insights and Updates

Welcome and Introduction

- Hosts Will Townsend and Anshel Sag kick off the episode with a light-hearted discussion about recent baseball games, highlighting the Padres' performance and the Astros' unexpected exit.

AT&T Leadership Change

- Will Townsend discusses the surprising departure of Chris Sambar, AT&T's network president, after over 20 years with the company.

- Speculation around the reasons for his departure, with insights into potential management disagreements.

- Discussion on Chris Sambar's future prospects and his potential move to AST Space Mobile.

SpaceX and T-Mobile's Emergency Authorization

- Anshel Sag covers the emergency authorization granted to SpaceX and T-Mobile for direct-to-cell technology in North Carolina.

- The focus is on enabling basic SMS communication in areas lacking cell coverage, particularly for disaster recovery efforts.

- Discussion on the temporary nature of this authorization and its potential future implications.

Nokia and NTT Partnership on Private 5G

- Will Townsend highlights the formal partnership between Nokia and NTT Data on private 5G networks.

- Insights into the partnership's impact on smart city deployments, particularly in Brownsville, Texas.

- Discussion on the flexibility and benefits of having multiple partners like Celona and Cisco for diverse use cases.

KT and KTSAT's NTN Technology Milestone

- Anshel Sag explains KT and KTSAT's claim of being the first to integrate a commercial 5G network with a geostationary satellite using NTN technology.

- Discussion on the significance of this development and its potential impact on future satellite communications.

Verizon's Restructuring and New CTO

- Will Townsend discusses Verizon's recent restructuring, including the appointment of a new CTO from Vodafone and a reduction in workforce.

- Insights into the strategic shifts at Verizon, particularly in relation to standalone 5G and millimeter wave technology.

Apple's Upcoming 5G Modem

- Anshel Sag shares insights on Apple's expected launch of its first 5G modem in the iPhone SE next year.

- Discussion on the strategic reasons for launching the modem in the SE model and the potential implications for Apple's product lineup.

Conclusion

- The hosts wrap up the episode, inviting listeners to provide feedback and suggest topics for future episodes.

- Encouragement to rate, subscribe, and tune in for the next episode.

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.