Carrier Wrap: Sprint Network Revamp And Incentive Auction Preparations – Episode 11

The new year is still quite new and yet the wireless carrier space has seen a significant amount of activity through the first few weeks of January. The most recent round hit the news late last week when Sprint was reported to be looking at yet another revamping of its network architecture in its continuing attempts to squeeze savings from its operations.

The news led off the conversation on this week’s Carrier Wrap, with show host Dan Meyer and RCR Wireless News managing editor Sean Kinney diving into the report, which was initiated from Re/Code. The story claims Sprint had already approved plans to re-architect its network away from its current reliance on traditional cell tower companies and backhaul suppliers and instead focus on tapping “government-owned properties” and microwave backhaul solutions. The moves are expected to save the carrier up to $1 billion per year in operating expense, or less than half of the $2.5 billion in annual opex the carrier previously said it was looking to trim.

However, some have questioned the thoroughness of the report, noting some of the facts cited did not add up.

The discussion also touched on Verizon Wireless’ launch of its BeeFree sponsored data platform, which failed to impress, and last week’s apology from T-Mobile US CEO John Legere to a consumer group that had released network performance data of the carrier’s Binge On service.

Also this week, we spoke with Dan Hays, principal for PwC Strategy and Consulting, on continuing preparations ahead of the upcoming 600 MHz incentive auction process. Hays noted the extremely complicated proceedings appeared to be rounding into shape, with the Federal Communications Commission looking solid in its plans to kick off the spectrum auction in late March.

Hays also said there should be robust broadcaster participation in the processes reverse auction section, which could leave in excess of 100 megahertz of available spectrum in the 600 MHz band available for established players and potentially new entrants to purchase.

Thanks for watching this week’s Carrier Wrap and please make sure to check out a new episode of Carrier Wrap next week.

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