– Indian telecom industry is still working on effectively monetising 5G networks two years after commercial launch
– FWA has emerged as a key application to connect homes, enterprises, and SMBs due to low fiber broadband penetration
– Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have introduced 5G FWA services to complement FTTH offerings
– The industry is still searching for a ‘killer app’ to help operators recoup their 5G investments
– Cost of acquiring 5G spectrum has added to financial burden of telcos, hindering aggressive deployment
– Indian telcos uncertain if there is immediate ROI from 5G services due to consumer habits of affordable data plans
– Adoption readiness for 5G remains relatively low among common users, with certain enterprises finding value in 5G
– Private 5G adoption is not taking off in India due to ambiguity around spectrum allotment
– 5G-Advanced technology with AI enhancements could bring new innovations and potential ROI
– Vi and BSNL should consider leapfrogging to 5.5G-ready equipment to maintain competitiveness in the industry
– Fixed broadband being seen as a clear winner, enabling revenue-generating use cases like OTT content, advertising, and smart homes.