Welcome and Introduction

- Will Townsend welcomes listeners to episode 211 of G2 on 5G.

- Introduction of guest analyst Anshel Sag.

Mobile Network Operator Response to Southern California Wildfires

- Discussion of tragic wildfires and estimated damages.

- Verizon's response:

- Waiving charges for affected customers

- Deploying mobile and satellite assets

- Offering free charging and Wi-Fi

- Donating to American Red Cross

- AT&T's response:

- Similar charge waivers

- Providing Wi-Fi and charging stations

- Deploying generators to support cell sites

- Donations to various organizations

- T-Mobile's response:

- Offering unlimited services to customers

- Deploying satellite equipment

- Engaging Starlink service

CES Highlights and AI's Impact on 5G

- Anshel Sag's observations from CES

- AI as a driver for 5G adoption

- Concept of hybrid AI and its reliance on 5G connectivity

- AI's potential to accelerate 5G development and usage

AT&T's New "Guarantee" Program

- Introduction of AT&T's consumer-focused service guarantees

- Details on outage credits and customer service improvements

- Comparison to service level agreements (SLAs) for consumers

- Potential impact on customer retention and acquisition

T-Mobile's Acquisition to Boost Ad Business

- T-Mobile's acquisition of Vystar Media for $600 million

- Expansion into digital out-of-home advertising

- Strategy to increase revenue beyond traditional subscriptions

AST SpaceMobile and Legato Networks Partnership

- Agreement for AST SpaceMobile to use Legato's spectrum

- Discussion of Legato's bankruptcy filing and restructuring

- Potential implications for AST SpaceMobile's satellite service

Launch of Aduna for 5G API Development

- Introduction of Aduna, a joint venture for 5G APIs

- Appointment of Anthony Bartolo as CEO

- Goal to simplify and unify 5G API development across carriers

- Use of Camara APIs as a foundation

Closing Remarks

- Reflection on the first live podcast of the year

- Invitation for listener engagement and feedback

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 expectations

Hot Takes on Recent News

- Mavenir's ongoing challenges and executive departure

- Potential Trump administration's plans for 3 GHz spectrum allocation

Mavenir's Struggles

- John Baker's departure and its implications

- Financial difficulties and failed expansion attempts

- Speculation on potential buyers and future prospects

Spectrum 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 allocation

Rip and Replace Funding

- US Senate's approval of $3 billion for replacing Chinese infrastructure

- Debate on whether the allocated funds are sufficient

MediaTek'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 strategy

2024 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 interfaces

The 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 technology

Closing 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 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.