Cellular Technology Transformation into New Monetizing Innovations (2025 – 2035) – by Bijoy Gajjar (Gen AI)
As technology and market demands evolve, traditional MNOs (worldwide) are transforming their role, extending beyond connectivity into comprehensive service offerings, focused on solving use-case. You can also see them as Consulting Service Providers (CSPs), dedicated to providing innovative wireless solutions that address the specific needs of end clients. They’re stepping up to deliver innovative solutions for the digital age.
Embracing OT/IT & Consulting Services: As hyperscalers like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, IBM, and Oracle redefine the telecom landscape, MNOs are shifting towards IT-centric models to deliver end-to-end solutions. These now encompass cloud computing, edge computing, and IoT services—adding value that extends beyond 5G connectivity. By expanding these offerings, MNOs aim to drive higher Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) across both post-paid and pre-paid segments.
Current Cloud Investments by key hyperscalers (~ up-to-date into 2027):
- Amazon: $5.5 billion investment in Middle Eastern data centers
- Microsoft: $3.2 billion investment in U.S. data centers and global AI infrastructure, expanding data center investments further in Middle East
- Google: $2.3 billion investment in U.S. data centers
- Oracle: $1.5 billion investment in Middle Eastern data centers
Additionally, NVIDIA’s recent quarterly revenue growth highlights the surging demand for data center architectures that support AI and machine learning (AI/ML) platforms—essential elements in advancing next-generation wireless solutions. These advancements open new business opportunities and enhance revenue potential for MNOs (CSPs).
Just as high-rise buildings require a solid foundation to support future residents and their new living architectures, data centers are being reinforced to manage the massive data loads that emerging wireless technologies will bring.
Cellular Technology Consultants – Empowering Global MNOs Toward the 2030s Vision | Image by Bijoy Gajjar (Gen AI)
The Role of Wireless Interfaces: 5G will transform the air-interface layer, enabling seamless integration with application layers through advanced programmability and intelligent, real-time adjustments. Looking ahead, 6G will push the envelope further, emphasizing full automation and optimization driven by AI/ML to enhance network performance and efficiency, also helping to support ultra-low latency applications, immersive experiences, and massive IoT connectivity. This evolution will empower networks to adapt dynamically to user needs and environmental conditions, creating a foundation for highly responsive, context-aware digital ecosystems.
Becoming Solution Partners: By taking on a consultative role, MNOs are aligning more closely with enterprises’ unique needs, creating customized digital solutions that support complex integrations and transformations in fields like smart cities, public venues, industrial automation, private wireless & satellite broadband networks.
The Rise of ‘CSP’ – Consulting Service/Solutions Providers: This shift to a CSP identity marks a strategic transformation, with MNOs now acting as integrators of technology and connectivity. By blending telecom with consulting expertise, MNOs are positioned to deliver comprehensive, end-to-end solutions that address enterprise and industry needs, enhancing their competitive edge. As this evolution continues, MNOs will play an essential role as technology partners, driving innovation in an increasingly connected world.
Satellite broadband operators like Amazon Kuiper, SpaceX, and AST SpaceMobile could follow a similar path, redefining connectivity with a consultative approach.
Fun fact about Private Wireless with CBRS Spectrum: With CBRS capabilities, anyone can become a service provider, addressing end-customer needs in unique ways. It’ll be fascinating to watch how smaller players partner with MNO giants (now evolving into CSPs) to create win-win scenarios over the next decade. This collaboration could unlock new solutions and reshape the connectivity landscape.
The rise of ORAN in Cloud RAN offers Consulting Service Providers (CSPs) a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective approach to network management. By adopting ORAN, CSPs can bypass traditional vendor-locks, integrating open, interoperable components that support new use cases such as 5G private networks and mobile edge computing. This transformation enables CSPs to optimize cost, performance, drive efficiencies, and deliver next-gen connectivity solutions tailored to client needs. While ORAN still has a long way to go, the outlook remains positive. You can read more about ORAN here – OPEN RAN – Next-Generation Wireless Solution!
In-building Technology Solutions: With over 80% of mobile traffic generated indoors, many venues and enterprises still rely on outdated OT/IT systems, public safety networks, WiFi, and commercial cellular solutions that fall short of today’s connectivity standards. Consulting Service Providers (CSPs) play a critical role in guiding these organizations toward hybrid architectures that integrate cloud, private, and public networks to create scalable, secure, and resilient in-building solutions. By upgrading to modular, software-defined Small Cells and DAS, venues and enterprises can bridge legacy gaps, enhance efficiency with AI/ML integration, and support the high-capacity, low-latency applications essential for modern digital environments.
About the Author:
Bijoy Gajjar is a seasoned telecom Subject Matter Expert (SME) with over 15 years of experience in wireless technology, RF engineering, systems architecture, product development, strategic project management, and business initiatives. His expertise includes large-scale deployments, interoperability testing for 4G/5G RAN systems (Nokia and Ericsson), and customized enterprise solutions for high-profile venues such as airports, stadiums, and convention centers. Bijoy has led national initiatives, mentored over 50 SMEs, and recently enhanced Globe Life Field’s performance for the 2024 MLB All-Star Week. He is deeply invested in researching next-generation public venue technology, enterprise solutions, private network engineering, and satellite broadband aimed at bridging connectivity gaps in underserved communities worldwide. Known for his positive approach and commitment to continuous improvement, Bijoy combines technical expertise with a strategic mindset to drive impactful business results.
Acronyms:
- IT – Information Technology
- OT – Operational Technology
- MNO – Mobile Network Operator
- CSP – Consulting Service Provider / Consulting Solutions Provider
- ARPU – Average Revenue Per User
- IoT – Internet of Things
- AI – Artificial Intelligence
- ML – Machine Learning
- CBRS – Citizens Broadband Radio Service
- RF – Radio Frequency
- SME – Subject Matter Expert
- RAN – Radio Access Network
- ORAN – Open Radio Access Network
- C-RAN – Cloud Radio Access Network
- 5G – Fifth Generation (wireless technology)
- 6G – Sixth Generation (wireless technology)