LEO, 5G-SA, and AI are shaping the TMT sectors

Emerging markets and cutting-edge technologies are changing the technology, media, and telecommunications sectors. Here is how

Deloitte India’s Aditya Khaitan provided valuable insights into the latest trends and forecasts shaping the technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) sectors during a keynote address at the Voice&Data Telecom Leadership Forum. With his extensive consulting experience in the telecommunications industry, Khaitan shared his expertise on emerging markets and cutting-edge technologies, offering key predictions for the industry.

One of the trends discussed was the growth of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites globally. Khaitan projected that the number of LEO satellites would exceed 5,000 by the end of 2023, with expectations of 7 to 10 networks operating 40,000 to 50,000 satellites by 2030. In India, the broadband satellite market is predicted to reach USD 1.9 billion by the end of 2023, attracting multiple players vying for licenses. He emphasised the importance of enhanced license approval frameworks, faster spectrum allocation, cybersecurity measures, and space situational awareness to ensure the success and safety of satellite operations.

The rise of 5G standalone networks

Another significant topic discussed was the deployment of 5G standalone networks. While non-standalone networks offer a cost-effective and faster deployment option for telcos with existing legacy networks, Khaitan highlighted the increasing prevalence of standalone networks globally. By the end of 2023, approximately 200 operators are expected to invest in standalone networks, offering network slicing and unlocking additional use cases, particularly in the enterprise sector. In India, there is an ambitious roadmap for 5G deployment, with over 4,000 cities targeted to be covered by March 2024 and an estimated capital expenditure of over USD 10 billion by telcos.

By the end of 2023, nearly 200 operators are expected to invest in standalone networks, offering network slicing and unlocking additional use cases.

AI drives the semiconductor space

Khaitan also touched on the role played by Artificial Intelligence (AI) in revolutionising semiconductor technology. He emphasised the use of AI tools by semiconductor providers to optimise chip design, allowing for more transistors to fit into smaller spaces. Spending on AI tools by semiconductor manufacturers is projected to reach USD 300 million in 2023, doubling to USD 500 million by 2026.

These advancements have led to accelerated chip flow designs and reduced chip sizes while maintaining performance levels. In India, the semiconductor market is expected to reach USD 55 billion by 2026, driven by the demand for smartphones, wearables, automotive applications, and data storage.

Convergence of Cloud and Edge Computing

The convergence of Cloud and Edge Computing was another key topic discussed. With the exponential growth of connected devices and data, Khaitan predicted 150 billion connected devices transferring 175 zettabytes of data by the end of 2026. To address the challenges of transmitting such vast amounts of data to the cloud, the convergence of cloud computing and edge computing is becoming crucial.

The strategy, Khaitan, pointed out involves bringing the Cloud closer to end-users, leveraging Edge Computing to deliver enhanced performance and cater to specific use case requirements. The enterprise edge market has experienced a 20% global growth rate, surpassing network equipment spending and IT spending. Telecom service providers, original equipment manufacturers, and hyper scalars are collaborating to harness this opportunity and develop use cases.

The use of AI tools by semiconductor providers to optimise chip design allows for more transistors to fit into smaller spaces.

Aditya Khaitan’s keynote address provided industry professionals with valuable insights into the latest trends and forecasts in the TMT sectors. His expertise in emerging markets and cutting-edge technologies shed light on the growth of LEO satellites, the deployment of 5G standalone networks, advancements in semiconductor technology, and the convergence of cloud and edge computing. These trends are set to shape the future of the telecommunications industry in India and globally.

josunj@cybermedia.co.in