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MEF Programme Lead for Connectivity & Wholesale Isabelle Paradis shares an overview of MEF’s presence in Hawaii for PTC where Members and guests gathered to discuss the issues facing the mobile ecosystem in the region and beyond.

The breathtaking beauty of Hawaii served as the perfect backdrop for PTC 2025, where the Mobile Ecosystem Forum (MEF) delivered a series of unforgettable panel discussions and an energetic meet-up. Packed venues, lively debates, and groundbreaking ideas defined the discussion, as industry leaders gathered to share insights and chart the future of the mobile ecosystem.

Exploring the Future: Highlights from the MEF Panels

Session 1: Beyond the Wires – The Transformative Impact of Wireless Technology on Infrastructure

Setting the stage for the day, this session delved into the transformative impact of wireless technology on industries across the globe. Moderated by Dario Betti, CEO of MEF, the session featured a presentation by Eduardo Perez of Colt Technology Services, highlighting the convergence of fixed and mobile networks through Network as a Service.

In an insightful fireside chat, Carol Benites from Mobi showcased how even small MNOs can lead with innovation and advanced solutions. The final discussion, featuring Jeff Pulver (Pulver.com) and Tim Passingham (Cambridge Management Consulting), explored how wireless innovation is creating unprecedented opportunities across sectors.

From enabling smart cities to improving access in underserved areas, wireless technology is redefining infrastructure development. The audience was left with a clear takeaway: wireless isn’t just a convenience; it’s the foundation for the future.”

The panelists showcased how wireless connectivity is more than just a technical upgrade—it’s a catalyst for growth and change. From enabling smart cities to improving access in underserved areas, wireless technology is redefining infrastructure development. The audience was left with a clear takeaway: wireless isn’t just a convenience; it’s the foundation for the future.

Session 2: Telecom Wholesale 2030 – Evolving Models, Technologies, and Partnerships

This session took the audience on a journey into the future of wholesale telecom. My superstar panelists, including Patrick George (iBasis), Jeff Hulse (Verizon Partner Solutions), Mike Mills (Gamma Service Providers), Nabil Babcouche (e& Group), and Steve Legge (Netnumber), dove into how the industry is evolving in the face of rapid technological change.

The conversation revolved around automation, and cloud connectivity as the building blocks of the new wholesale ecosystem. Patrick George urged providers to be bold in pursuing new revenue streams, while Mike Mills stressed that collaboration is no longer optional—it’s essential for survival in a consolidating market.

The panel ended with a provocative question: will wholesale providers adapt fast enough to stay relevant in 2030?

Session 3: Building Security and Trust in Mobile Telecom – Safeguarding the Networked World

As the digital world becomes more connected, the stakes for trust and security have never been higher. This session featured a powerhouse lineup: Stefan Heller (TCR), John Bruner (Aegis Mobile), Eli Katz (Xconnect), Paulius Judickas (Ipxo), and Jeanette Whyte (GSMA).

The discussion kicked off with a sobering statistic: cybercrime costs are projected to exceed $10.5 trillion annually. Eli Katz identified the most pressing threats, while Stefan Heller called for radical new approaches to outpace cybercriminals who innovate faster than security teams can respond. A fiery debate emerged around the reliance on third-party platforms. Should telecom operators reclaim control to secure their networks?

The session wasn’t just about problems—it was about solutions. John Bruner highlighted innovative ways to rebuild consumer trust, emphasizing transparency and privacy as non-negotiables. The panel ended with a single challenge to the audience: are you ready to take bold steps to protect the trust that underpins our connected world?

Session 4: The Evolution of Mobile in Telecom – Navigating the Next Wave of Connectivity

Moderated by Dario Betti, this session explored how mobile technology is shaping the next era of telecom. Panelists Ryan Tollofson (TELUS), Franck Morales (Orange Wholesale International), Matija Razem (Infobip), Andreas Hipp (Connectivitree and Cataleya), and Marcus Mena (Mobi) tackled the challenges and opportunities of 5G, IoT, and edge computing.

The exciting glimpse into the future began with discussions on 5G and 6G. However, the importance of higher network generations seems to be diminishing for both enterprises and consumers. Instead, there was greater interest in Network as a Service and APIs, although these still require further development to become mature enterprise solutions. Meanwhile, eSIM is transforming how consumers and IoT services provision their connectivity. While it may have been overhyped initially, its long-term impact is undeniable. The discussion also touched on regulation, with a growing consensus that regulatory measures are on the rise and that the internet is becoming increasingly localized

Connection and Collaboration at the MEF Meet-Up

Finally, the MEF meet-up, sponsored by SOMOS and XConnect, brought a sense of community to PTC 2025. Existing MEF members and newcomers gathered at the Hard Rock Café in the vibrant Hawaiian atmosphere to exchange ideas, forge partnerships, and inspire each other. Laughter, energy, and lively discussions filled the air as attendees solidified connections that can only shape the industry’s future.

Isabelle Paradis

Programme Lead, Connectivity & Wholesale

  

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