Telco Drift

Pablo Tomasi

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

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20 episodes
fortnightly
Avg 30 min
English

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#27
August 17 · 32 min
Telcos Strike Back: 6G A New Hope
Do we really need 6G? If someone can convince me about the benefits of 6G that person is Remy Pascal, Practice Leader at Omdia. After all the hype around 5G, what did we actually get—and what happened to the transformative use cases we were promised? In this episode, we continue to deep dive on 6G taking a broad look at various stakeholders and customers to understand why 6G may be an essential step for the mobile world. We explore what 6G could bring, from dramatically more capable networks and ask how AI changes the equation. Will 6G simply make networks faster, or will it make them fundamentally more intelligent—and could AI ultimately be the real reason we need 6G? This is for all the 6G skeptics out there: Telcos Strikes Back & 6G Is a New Hope
#26
July 30 · 16 min
On The Road To 6G And The Fate Of The Analyst
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.
#25
July 6 · 44 min
AI is coming: Data, networks, and the next telecom shift
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, 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.
#24
June 10 · 39 min
Wireless Wonders: Wi-Fi and Beyond
In this episode I am joined by Ruth Brown, 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.
#23
May 20 · 22 min
When Telcos Become Best Friends...
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.
#22
May 5 · 15 min
April Tech News Salad: Satellites, AI, Enterprise 5G & Consumer Bits – The Curse of The Pub Edition
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.
#21
April 16 · 36 min
Thirty Days Later: A Reality Check For Telcos And Industry Analysts
In this episode, I am joined by Amy Cameron, 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.
#20
April 9 · 48 min
The Uncertainty Network: Should Telcos Love Quantum?
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 - Program Director Quantum Safe Networks at Orange Business and host of the Orange Business Radio 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.
March 30 · 43 min
The Big American Telco Showdown
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", a journey into books, the world of reading, and emerging authors!
#18
March 21 · 21 min
From Brain Fades to Breakthrough Plays
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.
#17
February 26 · 21 min
A Guide On How To Survive MWC And Some Tech For Another Year
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.
#16
February 13 · 6 min
Q1 Tech Pulse: AI, satellites, and telcos' innovation - PUB edition
In this episode I am attempting to record from a pub to quickly highlight some of the biggest tech developments from 1Q 2026. From telcos' innovation and the role of eSIM, to sovereign AI, and data center in space - was this attempt a swing or a miss?
#15
January 27 · 43 min
Is 5G killing 6G?
What does it really take to move from 5G to 6G? In this episode, I am joined by Sebastian Barros, Managing Director at Circles to unpack how the realities of 5G deployment—its wins, its gaps, and its growing pains—are directly shaping the development of 6G. Will 6G be a clean generational leap? or should it be emerging as a response to the lessons learned from 5G from densification challenges to energy efficiency, edge computing, and the economics of network investment? We explore the cultural transformation telcos must embrace to make 6G viable—not just faster networks, but a platform addressing the big market gap of "monetization". AI takes center stage in our conversation—not only as a driver of new traffic patterns and services, but as a foundational element of 6G architecture itself. Finally, we look beyond 6G: Is this the end of cellular technology long developing cycles?
#14
January 8 · 35 min
Can the enterprise world learn anything from the consumer market?
Has 5G delivered in the consumer market? If so, what should the enterprise side know about this story? In this episode I am joined by Nicole McCormick, Chief Analyst 5G Consumer at Omdia to unpack what worked, what didn’t, and what strategies are being used. From pricing to bundles, speed and robots (Do Androids Dream Of Electric Sheep?), we explore how the consumer rollout of 5G may offer clues for enterprises looking to embrace 5G.
#13
Dec 17, 2025 · 37 min
The future of private 5G is on the line: Enterprise 5G in 2026 and beyond
In today's episode, I am joined by Manish Tiwari, Head of Enterprise 5G at Ericsson, to discuss how the enterprise 5G market has evolved, what stories customers tell about this technology, and what practical examples and suggestions can help drive the market forward. We also look ahead to 2026 — the trends poised to define the market, the innovations set to energize enterprises (from robotics to AI), and what comes next for a sector at a pivotal moment in its journey.
#12
Nov 17, 2025 · 37 min
Rewriting the private 5G story
In this episode, we’re joined by Matteo Grandi, VP of Innovation at Neutroon, for a first-hand look at the motivations, vision, and expectations of a startup targeting the private 5G market. With Matteo, we discuss the state of the industry, the rationale behind Neutroon’s move into private networking, and how the company views the challenges and opportunities of managing private 5G across multiple enterprise sites while addressing the growing need for network convergence. Our guest walks us through real deployments, key partnerships, roadblocks, and emerging opportunities that are shaping the future of scalable private networks in Europe and beyond.
#11
Oct 31, 2025 · 34 min
Decoding Digital Transformation in Emerging Markets
In this episode, we dive into the opportunities and challenges of bringing transformative technologies to emerging markets. Our guest Carlos Perea, an Investor and Advisor in Tech, joins us to explore what it really takes to deliver impact where infrastructure, regulation, and access can be both barriers and catalysts for innovation. From leapfrogging legacy systems to navigating local ecosystems, we unpack real-world lessons, unexpected pitfalls, and what success looks like on the ground.
#10
Oct 17, 2025 · 20 min
Unusual and inspiring private 5G stories
5G isn’t just powering smartphones — it’s transforming the most unexpected places on Earth. Unusual and Inspiring Private 5G Stories takes you behind the scenes of bold and unusual deployments that defy convention. Discover how innovators are connecting vineyards, theme parks, stadiums, factories, and cities in ways no one imagined. Huge deployments. Real conversations. Real robots. Real impact. Real 5G stories that will change how you see connectivity.
#9
Oct 1, 2025 · 12 min
A 10-Minute Chat on Satellites and Starlink
In this quick episode recorded in-between travels, I take a look at why Starlink is such a hot commodity right now—and what it could mean for telcos and the U.S. market.
#7
Sep 8, 2025 · 43 min
Slicing for Survival: 5G's Role in Emergency Response
In this episode, I am joined by Ildefonso De La Cruz, a fellow Analyst, Podcaster, and Leading Expert on Critical Comms at Omdia. Join us as we dive into the evolving world of the public safety communications market. From the long-standing role of narrowband networks to the transformative potential of broadband, we unpack how technology is reshaping mission-critical connectivity. We also explore the importance of network slicing—why it matters and what it means for the future of first responders and emergency services. Whether you’re in public safety, telecom, or simply curious about the infrastructure that keeps communities connected in times of need, this conversation offers valuable insights into where the industry is headed. Want to know more about Critical Comms? Follow the link to Ildefonso's Crit Comms Circle podcast!

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