The telecommunications industry is well-known for reinventing itself. Fixed landlines were the primary product of telecom companies in the initial periods; however, with the introduction of the mobile phone, this shifted to mobile subscriptions and SMS (Short Message Service).
In past years, many telecom firms' primary revenue source has shifted from calls to data, necessitating another shift in their business model. With every firm becoming a data organisation, there are huge prospects for the telecommunications industry to reinvent itself once more, thanks to blockchain.
A blockchain is a public electronic ledger distributed to shareholders in a network that records all transactions between two or more parties. Telecom firms can use blockchain technology to improve data integrity, security, inspection, and fraud prevention.
One of the primary aspects driving market expansion is growing security concerns among telecom enterprises around the world. Blockchain in telecom offers greater security by encrypting all transactions with cryptography.
Furthermore, the growing need for smart contracts is propelling market expansion. Blockchain is extensively utilised to automate the implementation of an agreement with preset conditions.
Moreover, technological improvements such as the incorporation of AI and the IoT with connected devices are boosting market expansion. These technologies allow smart devices to transmit data while also creating tamper-proof records of shared transactions.
Other reasons, including the incorporation of blockchain solutions for the development of 5G technology and the expanding use of blockchain-centred mobile wallet payments, are expected to propel the market forward.
Key Takeaways from Market Study
- The global blockchain in telecom market is valued at US$300 million in 2023.
- The market is forecasted to surge ahead at a CAGR of 74.8% during the forecast period (2023 to 2033).
- The market for blockchain in telecom is predicted to reach US$80 billion by 2033.
- The smart contracts segment is expected to witness significant growth over the next ten years.
“Blockchain technology uses strong encryption to record & store data on networks in a more safe and verifiable manner. It makes the data transparent and tamper-proof. As a result, blockchain technology is predicted to assist various telecom firms in improving network security and lowering operational expenses,” says a Fact.MR analyst.
Competitive Landscape
The blockchain in telecom industry is highly consolidated with only a few major players providing blockchain solutions across the telecommunications industry. The vendors are also receiving funding from investors, which will aid in the development of innovative blockchain services.
- Tech Mahindra and telecom analytics solutions supplier Subex collaborated in November 2022 to roll out blockchain-centred solutions worldwide for telecommunication operators. By reducing overall compliance difficulties, these solutions would reduce fraud and increase operational efficiencies for communication service providers (CSPs).
- Trai planned to introduce new blockchain technology to limit spam calls and texts in November 2022 in partnership with TSPs. The organisation is developing several technologies, including blockchain technology, to identify spam calls and texts. In addition, the regulator is forming a joint committee of regulators (JCOR) comprised of Trai (the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India), MoCA (the Ministry of Consumer Affairs), SEBI (the Securities and Exchange Board of India), and RBI (the Reserve Bank of India).
Regional Analysis
North America is leading the global blockchain in telecom market. The United States is contributing substantially to the regional market due to the presence of major blockchain technology providers in the country. Moreover, Asia Pacific and Europe are following North America in terms of development.
