On this episode of the Telco Drift I discuss how the different strategies from Nokia and Ericsson will create a telco market where the network could truly become a differentiator. I also bring up the question of what is needed to bring on the excitement for 6G beyond the techy and engineering world. Of course there is a short discussion of recent announcements with once again the NTN world grabbing my attention.

I then conclude by throwing my two cents on the analyst versus influencer debate.

On The Road To 6G And The Fate Of The Analyst

The telecom world is being reshaped by new business models, the ongoing debate around 5G’s success, and the rising strategic value of data. In this episode, I am joined by Miguel Carames [https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-carames-technologist/], Chief Product Officer at Mobileum to explore how AI is transforming networks and enterprise services, from the drive towards autonomous networks to new AI agents for small enterprises.

AI is coming for telcos and in this brave new world data may be one of telecom’s biggest untapped opportunities.

AI is coming: Data, networks, and the next telecom shift

In this episode I am joined by Ruth Brown [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-br/], Senior Principal Analyst Mobile Networks at Omdia to explore the wireless wonders of today and tomrrow. Join us for a look at the next generation of wireless connectivity as we explore the technologies shaping the future of networking. In this episode, we unpack the latest advancements in Wi-Fi 7, trace the challenges of private networks in their journey from niche deployments to business-critical infrastructure, and examine how 6G is beginning to redefine what's possible for wireless communications.

We also dive into the growing role of AI in the network, from intelligent automation and optimization to the emergence of agentic AI and what it could mean for network operations, security, and user experiences. 

Whether you're a networking professional, technology enthusiast, or simply curious about where wireless technology is headed, this episode offers an accessible overview of the innovations driving the next era of connected experiences.

Wireless Wonders: Wi-Fi and Beyond

In this episode, we unpack why telcos sometimes decide to bury the hatchet and to collaborate rather than to compete to the death. The creation of JV or broader collaborative initiatives is not a trend yet, it could become a way for telcos to create a common front to tackle the next wave of connectivity and monetization.

Among others, we look at Aduna, the multi-operator network API venture designed to give developers easier access to telco capabilities at scale, and the newly announced AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile D2D joint venture, a rare collaboration between U.S. rivals aimed at facing off against a real or perceived threat from Starlink. The episode explores what’s driving these alliances, where they could create new revenue, and the strategic trade-offs around competition, governance, and execution.

When Telcos Become Best Friends...

In this episode, April Tech News Salad: Satellites, AI, Enterprise 5G & Consumer Bits – PUB Edition, we investigate the biggest stories shaping the tech landscape right now. From satellite M&A breakthroughs expanding global connectivity to the different paths telcos are taking with AI and the worrying circularity of the AI economy, we unpack what actually matters beyond the headlines.

 We also dive into how 5G is evolving for business use cases discussing the fan-favorite private 5G market, and the latest consumer tech signals worth watching.

 Firstly recorded in a relaxed airport lounge with an Aperol Spritz, then re-recorded multiple times due to challenges with sound quality, this episode, now categorized as a pub edition,  blends sharp insight with candid views —perfect for anyone trying to keep up in a chill way without getting lost in the noise.

April Tech News Salad: Satellites, AI, Enterprise 5G & Consumer Bits – The Curse of The Pub Edition

In this episode, I am joined by Amy Cameron [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-cameron-67084745/], Managing Director for Research at STL Partners, to unpack the biggest promises and boldest claims that still make sense one month after the end of Mobile World Congress. Join us as we explore where telcos are genuinely advancing and where the hype may be outrunning reality. From network innovation to new business models, we discuss what comes next for the industry — and which opportunities are actually worth watching.

We also dive into the rapidly evolving role of AI in the enterprise world: where the real value is emerging, what leaders are getting right, and why the next wave of adoption will be disruptive.

Beyond technology, the conversation takes a more philosophical turn as we reflect on life, curiosity, and the importance of perspective in fast-moving industries. We close with a look at the journey of becoming an analyst today — the skills that matter, the habits that make a difference, and practical advice for anyone trying to build credibility in a world overflowing with noise and information.

Thirty Days Later: A Reality Check For Telcos And Industry Analysts

Quantum computing is moving from theory to reality—but what does it actually mean for the industry?

In this episode, I am joined by Frank De Jong [https://www.linkedin.com/in/fjdejong/] - Program Director Quantum Safe Networks at Orange Business and host of the Orange Business Radio [https://open.spotify.com/show/24t0Yi7UwhdTDWMFsi2thd?si=d03c2515224c4d99] podcast, to discuss the current and future state of quantum technology. Join us as we break down the fundamentals of quantum computing in plain language, exploring how it differs from classical computing and why it’s generating so much attention. We then dive into the real-world implications: from the transformative opportunities quantum technologies could unlock, to the technical and commercial challenges still standing in the way.

We also examine the emerging security landscape, including the risks quantum poses to current encryption standards and the race toward quantum-safe solutions. Finally, we explore the role telecommunications companies can play in this evolving ecosystem—where infrastructure, networks, and innovation intersect.

The Uncertainty Network: Should Telcos Love Quantum?

In this episode, I am joined by Kristin Paulin, Principal Analyst at Omdia, to dive deep into the evolving landscape of the US telecom market—unpacking the assets that define today’s telcos, the structural challenges they face, and the strategic crossroads shaping their future. From infrastructure and spectrum to bundling and digital services, we explore what truly drives value in a shifting ecosystem.

We also examine the tension between strategy and technology: What is more important? A bold strategic vision or technology prowess? And where do emerging trends like 5G, fiber expansion, and FWA services fit into the bigger picture? And what about 6G?

And for those needing a break or an inspiration to turn the laptop off, here is the link to Kristin's own podcast "Kristin's Next Chapter [https://open.spotify.com/show/0RjHJAgdmuUOjOxm1KEpVB?si=a9b2fdf51e2141e5]", a journey into books, the world of reading, and emerging authors!

The Big American Telco Showdown

Why do telcos keep chasing the wrong opportunities—or is there really such a thing as a wrong opportunity?

In this episode, we unpack some of telecom’s most persistent “brain fades”: from telcos’ costly attempts to become media companies, to network vendors stretching into industrial markets, to the long-misunderstood promise of IoT.

But this isn’t just a post-mortem.

We flip the lens to what’s emerging now: how AI is reshaping the value stack, where real opportunities are forming, and why this time the winners may look very different from the past. If the last decade was defined by missed signals, the next one may be defined by who finally reads them right.

A sharp, honest look at strategy, hype cycles, and the gap between ambition and execution.

From Brain Fades to Breakthrough Plays

Think of this as your unofficial survival kit for Mobile World Congress. We’re talking smart ways to navigate the madness, rookie mistakes to avoid, the best places to sneak off for some tapas, cocktails, and the side conversations that are way more interesting than what’s on the main stage. From quantum whispers to robots we will discuss some tech that will not steal this show at this event. This is your guide to the tech, the hangouts, and the unspoken rules that make MWC actually worth it.

A Guide On How To Survive MWC And Some Tech For Another Year

Analyzing the strange, the true, and the possible — stories and debates from the frontiers of tech, telecoms, and sci-fi