As our reliance on technology continues to grow and shapes a more interconnected world, telecommunications remains at the forefront of progress and shows no signs of slowing down. Judging from this year’s industry conferences showcasing future 5G innovations and pending changes in legislation and leadership, I expect the industry to show significant developments in 2025.
Telecom Initiatives Likely To Grow Under Republican-Led FCC
While already positioned for exponential growth, telecom is expected to undergo a significant transformation under Donald Trump and a Republican-led Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
This can be forecasted based on the writings of widely anticipated commissioner appointee, Brendan Carr, who previously outlined his policy priorities. In short, the FCC is expected to focus on key initiatives, including expanded spectrum access, streamlined infrastructure investment and reforms to the Universal Service Fund (USF). Programs addressing telecom security, such as Rip and Replace, may also see renewed momentum, further accelerating industry-wide changes.
Previously, Carr has criticized current broadband spending policies as well, arguing they risk wasting taxpayer dollars while leaving rural communities underserved. As a result, initiatives like the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) are expected to take center stage for their potential to bridge the digital divide, particularly for rural and unconnected Americans. With increased government support in these areas, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are likely to face heightened deployment demands.
These policy changes are expected to drive innovation and investment in wireless connectivity and broadband deployment through 2025 and over the course of the presidential term. In alignment with these efforts, the FCC’s initiatives will build on its achievements from 2017 to 2020, when it secured significant progress in the U.S. for 5G advancements and set the stage for key developments like 5G network slicing.
The Gradual Rollout Of Network Slicing
Network slicing enables operators to create multiple virtual networks (or slices) on a single physical infrastructure, with each slice optimized for specific application needs like low latency or high bandwidth to ensure tailored performance for diverse use cases. Despite the expectations of widespread adoption for many years now, the full potential of network slicing has been slow to materialize, as many operators lacked the standalone capabilities, such as “true” 5G networks, required to support it at scale.
However, 2025 is expected to mark a turning point, with broader adoption of 5G network slicing as operators transition to standalone 5G (5G SA) networks. Unlike the initial 5G nationwide rollout, 5G SA uses a 5G core (as opposed to an LTE core), which unlocks more advanced capabilities like network slicing.
In the near term, network slicing will primarily be applied to critical areas such as public safety, live event broadcasting and low-latency services. For example, a priority slice could be dedicated to first responders, financial and/or mission-critical applications. Broadcasters could also benefit from a dedicated 5G layer to quickly transmit video from cameras to production teams during live events like sports.
Like most industry-evolving technologies, this idea was highly emphasized at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Las Vegas this year. The conference always serves as a crucial touchpoint where industry leaders predict the technologies and initiatives that will shape the wireless landscape in 2025 and beyond.
Small Enterprise, Big Wireless
Meeting the needs of enterprises of all sizes was also discussed this year at MWC. This shared commitment included the often-overlooked "smallprise" sector. While smaller enterprises may not face the same complex challenges as large-scale operations like extravagant hotels, casinos or warehouses, they are coming to recognize the importance of reliable wireless connectivity as a critical part of their infrastructure.
For example, schools are prioritizing connectivity for safety and communications, particularly during emergencies. Retailers are also tapping into wireless technologies to enhance the shopping experience—whether through smart carts, shoppers using their smartphones for purchasing decisions, or the seamless operation of checkout stations and inventory management systems.
Looking ahead to 2025, the wireless industry will place a strong emphasis on scalable and cost-effective wireless solutions that cater to the diverse demands of enterprises, driving both innovation and adoption in the smallprise segment. These solutions will help small businesses stay competitive and unlock new opportunities in an increasingly connected world.
Last year’s industry conferences, coupled with the anticipated changes in legislation and leadership, signal significant growth in wireless. With key developments including efforts to bridge the digital divide for rural Americans, a broader rollout of network slicing for customized connectivity solutions and the introduction of scalable, cost-effective wireless options designed to meet the needs of smaller enterprises, we can expect a future of greater accessibility and innovation within the telecom sector.
Julie Song, President at Advanced RF Technologies (ADRF), responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company globally. Read Julie Song's full executive profile here.