The G2 on 5G Podcast: Mavenir's Woes, Trump's Spectrum Plans, Rip and Replace Funding, MediaTek's Pixel Potential, 2024 Recap, and 2025 Predictions

Welcome and Introduction- Will Townsend and Anshel Sag host the final episode of G2 and 5G for 2024- Apology for delay due to travel commitments- Brief discussion on upcoming CES expectationsHot Takes on Recent News- Mavenir's ongoing challenges and executive departure- Potential Trump administration's plans for 3 GHz spectrum allocationMavenir's Struggles- John Baker's departure and its implications- Financial difficulties and failed expansion attempts- Speculation on potential buyers and future prospectsSpectrum Allocation and FCC Changes- Discussion on lower 3 GHz band allocation for 5G- Challenges with FCC's ability to allocate spectrum- Congressional issues affecting spectrum allocationRip and Replace Funding- US Senate's approval of $3 billion for replacing Chinese infrastructure- Debate on whether the allocated funds are sufficientMediaTek's Potential Entry into Pixel Phones- Rumors of MediaTek 5G modems in future Pixel devices- Comparison with current Samsung modems in Pixel devices- Speculation on Apple's modem strategy2024 Retrospective and 2025 Predictions- 2024 as a setup year for significant 5G developments in 2025- Predictions for satellite integration in 5G networks- AI's increasing role in network operations and device interfacesThe Year of LEO (Low Earth Orbit) Satellites- 2025 projected as the "year of the fifth zodiac" (Leo)- Anticipated developments in LEO satellite communications- Potential scaling of direct-to-cell unmodified technologyClosing Thoughts- Brief mention of upcoming phone reviews- Expectations for 5G advancements and glimpses of 6G in 2025- Invitation for audience engagement and feedback

Welcome and Introduction- Episode 209 of the G2 on 5G podcast kicks off with hosts Will Townsend and Anshel Sag.- The duo shares their recent travel experiences, highlighting their busy schedules and upcoming plans.6G Trials and AI Integration- Discussion on NTT DoCoMo and SK Telecom's pre-6G trial involving AI, with insights into the role of Nvidia and Nokia.- Exploration of AI's potential in enhancing network performance and customer experience.Qualcomm's Strategic Focus- Insights from Qualcomm's Investor Day, emphasizing IoT and PC growth.- Qualcomm's ambition to balance its smartphone business with IoT and automotive sectors by 2030.Aramco Digital's Potential Investment in Mavenir- Rumors of Aramco Digital considering a $1 billion investment in Mavenir.- Speculation on Tarek Amin's disruptive strategies and the potential impact on Mavenir's future.CV2X Standardization Progress- Update on CV2X technology's journey to becoming a standard in the U.S.- Discussion on the implications for automotive connectivity and Qualcomm's role in the sector.Nokia's Recent Wins- Nokia secures significant deals with Bharti Airtel and Microsoft Azure, boosting its financial outlook.- Analysis of Nokia's position in the RAN and data center markets.Controversial Views on Wireless Technology- RFK Jr.'s controversial statements on 5G and wireless technology.- Concerns about misinformation and the importance of informed discussions on technology.Thanksgiving Plans and Closing Remarks- Hosts share their Thanksgiving travel plans and express gratitude to listeners.- Encouragement for audience engagement and feedback on future podcast topics.

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 UpdatesWelcome 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 FranciscoWelcome 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 PodcastWelcome 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.