The wireless industry is undergoing rapid changes, with new technologies reshaping how we connect and communicate. Bernard Borghei, a seasoned industry expert and Symphony Wireless CEO, is well-versed in the current state of the wireless sector.
Borghei said Symphony Wireless was created with a clear mission: to acquire and manage the real estate portion of wireless infrastructure assets, and where feasible, optimize them to meet the growing demands of the industry. “Symphony Wireless is more than just a company acquiring ground leases and rooftop easements; we’re focused on partnering with our carrier and tower company clients on these assets to better serve the future of wireless communication,” Borghei explained. He said the company is strategically positioned to handle the increased connectivity needs brought about by the widespread adoption of 5G technology.
5G: The Latest Cornerstone of Connectivity
“5G is the current state-of-the art of connectivity,” Borghei said about its transformative impact. He explained that it’s more than an upgrade from previous generations of wireless technology. It’s a revolutionary leap that once fully deployed as a stand-alone network, will enable a new era of innovation. “5G is the foundation for a connected world where everything from autonomous vehicles to smart cities will rely on ultra-fast, low-latency networks,” Borghei emphasized.
The deployment of 5G networks has already begun, but Borghei cautions that the transition is far from complete, noting that significant investments in infrastructure are required to realize the full potential of 5G. “The challenges are substantial, but the rewards are even greater. Companies that can navigate this transition successfully will be the leaders in the new digital economy,” he explained.
Spectrum Scarcity
One of the most pressing issues facing the wireless industry, according to Borghei, is spectrum scarcity. Spectrum is the critical resource that powers all wireless communications, and as demand for services continues to grow, the competition for spectrum has become intense. “Spectrum is the lifeblood of the wireless industry. Without adequate spectrum, the industry cannot meet the increasing demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity,” Borghei said.
But that’s not the only headwind. There are also substantial financial pressures companies face when deploying new technologies. The costs associated with building 5G networks are significant, and not all players in the industry have the resources to make these investments, according to Borghei. “While the potential of 5G is enormous, the financial burden is also large. Companies need to balance the need for innovation with the realities of their financial situations,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Borghei remains optimistic about the industry’s future. “The wireless industry is at a crossroads, but with the right strategies, we can turn these challenges into opportunities,” he said. With proper strategic planning and collaboration, Borghei said the industry can overcome these obstacles and thrive.
The Role of Cybersecurity
As the industry moves towards greater connectivity, cybersecurity has become a top priority. “Cybersecurity is not just an add-on; it needs to be built into the fabric of our networks from the ground up,” he warned. Borghei explained that as networks become more integral to everyday life, they also become more vulnerable to cyberattacks.
With the advent of 5G, Borghei said wireless networks are increasingly complex, and in turn, they’ve become attractive targets for cybercriminals. He called for a proactive approach to cybersecurity, where potential threats are anticipated and mitigated before they can cause harm. “In a world where everything is connected, the stakes are higher than ever. We must take cybersecurity seriously if we want to protect our networks and the people who rely on them.”
The Promise of AI
Looking to the future, Borghei is particularly excited about the potential of edge computing and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform the wireless industry. Edge computing, which processes data closer to the source rather than relying on centralized data centers, is expected to revolutionize how we use wireless networks. “Edge computing will enable faster, more efficient data processing, which is crucial for applications like autonomous vehicles and real-time analytics,” Borghei explained.
He also sees AI as a key driver of innovation in the industry. “AI is not just a buzzword; it’s a powerful tool that is already making a difference in how we operate our networks. Its role will only grow as the technology matures,” he said, noting that AI is already being used to optimize network performance, manage spectrum more efficiently, and enhance cybersecurity.
A Favorable Future
Despite the challenges facing the wireless industry, Borghei remains confident in its future. He believes that the industry is well-positioned to continue driving global innovation, provided it can navigate the complexities of the current landscape. “The future of the wireless industry is bright, but it will require us to be adaptable, resilient, and forward-thinking,” Borghei concluded.
His insights paint a picture of an industry in transition—one that is grappling with significant challenges but is also on the cusp of transformative advancements. From the rollout of 5G to the integration of AI and edge computing, the wireless industry is poised to play a central role in shaping the future of global connectivity. As Borghei aptly puts it, “We are at the beginning of a new era, and those who can adapt will lead the way into the future.”
To learn more about Symphony Wireless, visit https://symphonywireless.com/. Listen to Borghei’s recent interview on Tower Talks, Inside Towers’ podcast here.
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