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The Future of Mission-Critical Communications: From Coverage Challenges to Continuous Assurance Mission-critical communications has firmly emerged as one of the defining themes shaping the industry in 2026. From the global stage at Mobile World Congress 2026 to the UK-focused discussions at BAPCO Annual Event 2026, one message is clear: the expectations placed on public safety networks are increasing faster than ever before. As organisations transition from legacy systems to broadband technologies, the challenge is no longer just about enabling connectivity—it’s about guaranteeing performance, resilience, and trust in real-world conditions. Voice Remains the Foundation—But Expectations Are Evolving While data, video, and AI-driven capabilities are rapidly expanding, mission-critical voice still underpins emergency operations. However, moving from TETRA to LTE and 5G introduces new challenges: Less predictable coverage Increased dependency on network conditions Greater variability in user experience For emergency responders, this shift is not just technical—it’s operational. The need is no longer just connectivity, but guaranteed performance in real-world conditions. Coverage and Resilience: The Reality Behind the Transition One of the biggest misconceptions is that modern networks automatically outperform legacy systems. In reality: Higher-frequency networks (4G/5G) create more localized coverage gaps Indoor performance remains a significant challenge Network changes often lead to user-perceived degradation, even when overall performance improves At the same time, resilience is evolving from: Single-network reliability → Multi-layered service assurance This means organisations must move beyond infrastructure and ask: “How do we continuously verify that services are actually working for the end user?” SmartViser Approach: From Validation to Continuous Assurance To successfully transition to broadband mission-critical communications, organisations must address two key needs: Validate and test services before deployment Continuously monitor and assure performance in live operations SmartViser supports both phases with a comprehensive, device-based approach. 1. Active Testing – Validating Mission-Critical Services Before Deployment Before any rollout, it is essential to validate that mission-critical services perform as expected under real conditions. With viSer Neo and viSer Neo+, SmartViser enables: End-to-end testing of MCX services, including: Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) Data services and application performance Measurement of key KPIs such as: Call setup time Mouth-to-ear latency Audio quality (POLQA-based MOS) Data throughput and latency Execution of automated, repeatable test scenarios across: Lab environments Field conditions Mobility and drive testing With viSer Neo+, operators can go even deeper: Low-layer signalling analysis RF measurements and cell-level insights Advanced troubleshooting and optimisation Outcome: Ensure mission-critical services are fully validated, benchmarked, and ready for operational use before deployment. 2. Service Assurance – Continuous Monitoring in Live Networks Validation alone is not enough. Once deployed, services must be continuously monitored to ensure consistent performance over time. SmartViser enables full service assurance through: viSer Tempo – Active Monitoring Continuous execution of automated test scenarios Real-time validation of service availability and performance Early detection of degradation before it impacts users viSer Mateo – Passive Monitoring Collection of real usage data from operational devices Insight into actual user experience and environmental conditions Identification of trends, anomalies, and intermittent issues Outcome: From periodic testing → continuous, real-time assurance of QoE and QoS Customer Story: ACMOSS and the French RRF Programme A strong example of this approach in action is ACMOSS and the deployment of the Réseau Radio du Futur (RRF)—France’s nationwide mission-critical broadband network. To ensure performance and user experience across this complex, multi-operator environment, ACMOSS implemented SmartViser viSer Tempo as part of its operational framework. Key highlights include: Deployment of automated smartphone-based testing farms simulating real user behaviour End-to-end validation of MCX services, including voice, Push-to-Talk and data Measurement of critical KPIs such as: PTT access time Mouth-to-ear latency Audio quality (MOS) Integration into the Network Operations Centre (NOC) for real-time visibility This approach allows ACMOSS to: Continuously monitor service performance across the RRF Detect issues before users are impacted Maintain service continuity and resilience at all times As highlighted in their publication, this data-driven methodology ensures that critical communications remain available and performant across all operators and scenarios. Read the full customer story here:ACMOSS RRF Quality of Experience Article Multi-Bearer Future: Testing the Complexity of Tomorrow The future of mission-critical communications is multi-bearer: 4G / 5G Satellite (LEO constellations) Private networks Wi-Fi and hybrid connectivity This creates a new level of complexity: Dynamic switching between networks Variable latency and bandwidth Increased risk of service disruption SmartViser solutions allow operators and agencies to: Validate performance across all bearers Ensure seamless service continuity Benchmark hybrid connectivity strategies From Reactive to Proactive: A New Operational Model Historically, mission-critical communications have been managed reactively: Issues are reported → investigated → resolved But in a 5G and multi-service world, this model is no longer sufficient. The new model is: Continuous monitoring Early detection of degradation Data-driven optimisation SmartViser enables this transformation by combining: Active testing (viSer Neo / Neo+) Continuous monitoring (Tempo) Real user insight (Mateo) Conclusion: Enabling the Future of Mission-Critical Communications The transition to broadband and multi-bearer communications is inevitable—but success is not guaranteed. To deliver on the promise of: Reliable voice Real-time data Seamless user experience Organisations must adopt a new mindset: From network-centric → experience-centric From reactive → proactive From assumptions → measurable assurance SmartViser enables this transformation by covering the full lifecycle: Validation before deployment (viSer Neo / Neo+) Continuous assurance in live networks (Tempo / Mateo) Meet Us to Learn More Want to explore how SmartViser can support your mission-critical strategy? Join us at the Critical Communications World 2026 in London, taking place 16–18 June. Come and meet our team to discover how SmartViser solutions can help you ensure performance, resilience, and real user experience across your networks. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding an MBA from Henley Business School brings a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee, responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging a customer-centric culture. The main mission is to help organizations to create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

MTEL selects SmartViser to Strengthen Service Quality with Advanced Active Testing Rennes, France / Vienna, Austria – 21st of April 2026 SmartViser, a leading provider of automated testing and quality assurance solutions for mobile networks and devices, today announced that MTEL has selected SmartViser’s viSer Neo and viSer Neo+ solutions to enhance its testing capabilities and ensure superior service quality across its mobile services.   As part of this engagement, MTEL has introduced active testing using SmartViser’s viSer Neo and viSer Neo+ platforms, enabling comprehensive validation of device and network performance under real-world conditions. This initiative reflects MTEL’s continued commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality services to its customers in a competitive and fast-evolving telecommunications environment.   By leveraging viSer Neo, MTEL benefits from scalable, device-based automated testing that replicates real user behaviour across voice, data, and application scenarios. Complementing this, viSer Neo+ provides advanced network measurement and troubleshooting capabilities, including deeper insights into radio and signalling performance. Together, these solutions enable MTEL to gain full visibility into service performance and proactively identify and resolve potential issues.   The introduction of active testing allows MTEL to optimise testing processes, improve consistency in device validation, and accelerate time-to-market for new services and devices. It also enhances their ability to maintain a high level of Quality of Experience (QoE) for end users.   Gilles Ricordel, CEO at SmartViser, commented: "We are delighted to welcome MTEL as a SmartViser customer. The introduction of active testing with viSer Neo and Neo+ will provide MTEL with powerful tools to ensure service quality and performance. As networks become more complex, having real-device, automated testing capabilities is essential to maintaining a superior customer experience."   Milenko Cvijanović, CTO at MTEL, added: "At MTEL, ensuring the quality and reliability of our services is a key priority. By implementing SmartViser’s viSer Neo and Neo+ solutions, we are strengthening our testing capabilities and gaining deeper visibility into network and device performance. This allows us to continuously optimise our services and deliver the best possible experience to our customers."   This engagement also provides a strong foundation for future expansion, including broader automation use cases and enhanced analytics to support ongoing service optimisation.   About SmartViser SmartViser is a leading provider of automated testing and quality assurance solutions for mobile networks and connected devices. Through its viSer suite, SmartViser enables mobile operators, device manufacturers, regulators, and test laboratories to measure, validate, and optimise Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) across a wide range of environments, including 5G, private networks, and mission-critical communications. With advanced automation, real-time analytics, and scalable testing capabilities, SmartViser helps ensure consistent performance, faster time-to-market, and compliance with evolving industry and regulatory requirements. Press Contact SmartViser SmartViser Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer  info@smartviser.com www.smartviser.com About MTEL MTEL, part of Telekom Srbija Group, provides mobile and TV services in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, with a strong focus on the ex-Yu community. In Austria, the company also offers home internet services. MTEL’s core strength lies in its attractive roaming and international offerings, with a particular focus on seamless connectivity between the DACH region and the Western Balkans, while also providing worldwide data roaming options. With a commitment to reliability, transparency, and customer-centric innovation, MTEL delivers high-quality telecommunications services, flexible tariffs, and multilingual customer support tailored to the needs of its users.  Press Contact MTEL marketing.at@mtel.at www.mtel.at www.mtel.ch www.mtelgermany.de

SmartViser Announces Strategic Expansion of Shareholding, Strengthening Long-Term Industrial Partnership Rennes, France – 02/04/2026 SmartViser today announces a major milestone in its strategic development, as its long-term industrial partner, Anritsu Corporation (Representative Director and President: Hirokazu Hamada), has decided to further increase its shareholding in the company. Following approval at Anritsu’s Board of Directors meeting on 31 March 2026, Anritsu will acquire an additional 18.28% of SmartViser’s issued shares, building on its existing 32.72% stake established in March 2025. Subject to the completion of customary regulatory approvals and procedures, SmartViser is expected to become a consolidated subsidiary of Anritsu in August 2026. Until the transaction is finalized, both companies will continue to operate independently, with management and business decisions remaining under their respective governance structures. This development represents a natural evolution of the collaboration established between SmartViser and Anritsu over the past year. Since the initial investment, the two companies have worked closely together, combining SmartViser’s expertise in end-to-end test automation, real-world quality of experience validation, and network monitoring with Anritsu’s leadership in advanced telecommunications test and measurement solutions. The strengthened relationship will enable deeper alignment, accelerate joint innovation, and expand the global reach of both organizations. SmartViser has established itself as a trusted partner for mobile network operators, device manufacturers, regulators, and testing laboratories worldwide. Its portfolio spans automated device and network testing, active testing and real-world performance validation, continuous quality of experience monitoring, and compliance with European Union smartphone energy labelling regulations, including the Energy Efficiency Index. This strong foundation positions SmartViser at the forefront of industry transformation, particularly as networks and services become increasingly complex and performance-driven. The enhanced partnership will support accelerated development and deployment across key growth areas, including NTN, mission-critical communications, private and enterprise networks, and connected mobility ecosystems. It will also reinforce SmartViser’s role in supporting sustainability initiatives through energy efficiency testing and compliance solutions, contributing to broader industry efforts toward reducing environmental impact. By combining complementary capabilities, SmartViser and Anritsu share a common vision to improve network performance, enhance user experience, and enable more efficient and intelligent communication ecosystems. This strategic step reflects a shared commitment to innovation and to supporting the transition toward a more connected, sustainable, and data-driven society. SmartViser will continue to operate with its established teams, product roadmap, and customer engagements, while benefiting from increased industrial support and expanded market opportunities. This milestone further strengthens SmartViser’s position as a leading innovator in telecom testing and quality assurance, and underscores its ambition to deliver greater value to customers and partners worldwide. SmartViser SAS Outline Company Name SmartViser SAS Headquarter 12B rue du Patis Tatelin 35700 Rennes, France Representative CEO Gilles Ricordel Established September 17, 2014 Capital €170,980   Learn more about Anritsu You can find more information about SmartViser and its innovative software on the Web at  www.smartviser.com   Press Contact and General Information SmartViser                                      Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer  info@smartviser.com

MWC 2026 AI, Mission-Critical Networks and the Future of Telecom Mobile World Congress 2026 confirmed that the telecom industry is entering a new era. While previous years focused primarily on expanding connectivity and deploying new generations of mobile networks, the conversations this year reflected a broader transformation. Telecom networks are increasingly becoming critical digital infrastructure , supporting AI-driven services, enabling industrial innovation, and delivering reliable connectivity for mission-critical communications . Across panels, analyst sessions and demonstrations, several key themes emerged that will shape the telecom ecosystem in the coming years: AI adoption, mission-critical network performance, satellite connectivity, and sovereign digital infrastructure. AI Becomes Central to Telecom Transformation Artificial Intelligence was undoubtedly the dominant theme of MWC 2026. Operators are increasingly using AI to optimize network operations, automate processes, and improve customer experience. Today, AI is already being applied to: Network monitoring and predictive maintenance Automated network troubleshooting Customer experience management Traffic optimisation and capacity planning However, a key challenge remains. While AI can significantly reduce operational costs, telecom operators are now looking at how AI can also create new revenue opportunities . Moving forward, AI will play a crucial role in enabling new digital services, industry solutions, and intelligent network operations. From AI for Networks to Networks for AI One of the most significant discussions at MWC was the shift from AI supporting telecom networks  to telecom networks supporting AI-powered applications . Industries are increasingly relying on real-time data and AI-driven decision-making. Applications such as autonomous manufacturing, robotics, remote healthcare, and intelligent transportation systems require networks that deliver high reliability, low latency, and consistent performance . As a result, telecom operators must evolve their network architectures to support these new demands. This includes: advanced 5G network capabilities edge computing integration enhanced uplink performance automated network orchestration Ensuring that these networks perform reliably under real-world conditions requires advanced telecom testing, network monitoring and QoE measurement tools . Mission-Critical Communications Drive New Network Requirements One of the strongest themes at MWC 2026 was the rapid evolution of Mission Critical Communications (MCX) . Public safety agencies, transportation systems, utilities, and industrial organisations are transitioning from legacy narrowband communication systems to broadband mission-critical networks built on LTE and 5G technologies . These networks support a wide range of advanced services, including: Mission Critical Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) Mission Critical Video real-time multimedia data sharing situational awareness applications integrated command and control platforms For emergency services and critical infrastructure operators, network performance is essential. Service interruptions or degraded quality can directly impact safety and operational efficiency. This is why network monitoring, QoE monitoring and real-world network testing  are becoming critical components of mission-critical network deployments. Continuous performance monitoring helps operators detect issues early, validate network coverage and ensure that critical communication services perform reliably in real operational environments. Satellite and NTN Expand Network Coverage and Resilience Another key topic gaining attention at MWC 2026 was the increasing role of satellite and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) . Satellite connectivity is becoming an important complement to terrestrial mobile networks, particularly for: remote and rural connectivity maritime and aviation communications disaster recovery operations backup connectivity for mission-critical services Telecom operators are now partnering with satellite providers to create hybrid network architectures  that combine terrestrial and satellite connectivity. These hybrid networks can significantly improve network resilience and expand coverage in areas where traditional infrastructure may be unavailable or compromised. Sovereign AI and Trusted Digital Infrastructure Another emerging topic at MWC 2026 was sovereign AI and sovereign digital infrastructure . Governments and organisations are increasingly focused on maintaining control over their digital ecosystems, including data processing, AI capabilities and connectivity infrastructure. Sovereign initiatives often include: sovereign cloud platforms sovereign AI compute infrastructure sovereign connectivity networks locally developed AI models and services Telecom operators are well-positioned to support these initiatives due to their experience managing secure and resilient communication infrastructure. However, success will depend on collaboration between telecom operators, technology vendors, cloud providers, and governments to build trusted digital ecosystems that support innovation and economic growth. Telecom Becomes the Backbone of the Digital Ecosystem One of the clearest messages from MWC 2026 is that telecom networks are no longer isolated infrastructure systems. They are becoming platforms that enable digital transformation across industries. The telecom ecosystem now includes collaboration between: telecom operators cloud providers AI companies industrial enterprises public sector organisations regulators and policy makers This cross-industry collaboration is enabling new services, from A I-driven network operations to mission-critical connectivity solutions for emergency response and disaster management. Ensuring Network Performance in an AI-Driven World As telecom networks support more AI-driven services and mission-critical applications, ensuring consistent network performance becomes increasingly important. Operators must be able to: monitor network behaviour in real time validate Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) test network performance across devices and environments detect anomalies before they impact users Advanced test automation platforms, network monitoring solutions and real-world device testing play a key role in ensuring that networks perform reliably across public, private and mission-critical environments. These capabilities are essential to maintain the trust, reliability and performance required for next-generation telecom networks. The Road Ahead MWC 2026 highlighted the expanding role of telecom networks in enabling the digital economy. Artificial Intelligence, mission-critical communications, satellite connectivity and sovereign digital infrastructure are all shaping how telecom networks will evolve in the coming years. As networks become increasingly important for industry, public services and digital innovation, the focus will continue shifting toward network resilience, performance assurance and real-world service validation. The future of telecom is no longer only about connectivity. It is about enabling intelligent, reliable and mission-critical digital infrastructure for societies and industries worldwide. As these trends accelerate, ensuring real-world network performance becomes a critical requirement — particularly for AI-driven and mission-critical services. At SmartViser, we see this shift reflected in the increasing demand for end-to-end test automation, real-device validation and continuous QoE monitoring . At MWC 2026, we showcased how operators and service providers can gain real-time visibility of network behaviour across live environments , enabling them to validate performance, detect issues early and ensure service reliability under real operational conditions. This approach is especially important for mission-critical communications, where consistent performance, reliability and user experience must be guaranteed at all times. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

SmartViser to Exhibit at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona Discover Cutting-Edge Test Automation and Network Monitoring Innovations at Hall 5, Business France/French Tech Pavilion, Stand 5B61-36 SmartViser Returns to MWC26 with Live 24/7 Network Monitoring and Next-Generation Test Automation Innovations Barcelona, Spain – February 2026  – SmartViser, a leading provider of automated device testing and network performance solutions, today announced its return to Mobile World Congress 2026 , where the company will showcase its latest innovations in active and passive network monitoring, mission-critical performance assurance, and device test automation. SmartViser will be exhibiting in Hall 5, Business France Pavilion, Stand 5B61-36 , where visitors will be able to experience live demonstrations and real-time analytics throughout the event. Live 24-Hour Monitoring of Spain’s Mobile Networks At the heart of SmartViser’s MWC26 presence will be a continuous 24-hour live monitoring of the three commercial mobile networks in Spain , running throughout the event.Using SmartViser’s combined active and passive monitoring solutions, attendees will be able to observe real-world differences in network performance during peak hours, off-peak periods, and overnight conditions . The results will be displayed live on SmartViser’s dashboards at the stand , with a detailed post-event performance report  made available after MWC. Spotlight on SmartViser Network Monitoring viSer Tempo – Active Network Monitoring viSer Tempo  is SmartViser’s active monitoring solution, designed to continuously generate realistic user traffic across multiple devices. It automates voice calls, data sessions, browsing, app usage, and messaging to deliver repeatable, comparable, and actionable KPIs  across public, private, and mission-critical networks.viSer Tempo is ideal for detecting performance degradations, validating service quality, and benchmarking networks under real operational conditions. viSer Mateo – Passive Network Monitoring viSer Mateo  complements active testing with true passive observation of real user behaviour . Installed on end-user devices, it captures network context, device conditions, and performance indicators without generating synthetic traffic , providing a genuine view of long-term user experience and network behaviour.Together, Tempo and Mateo form a powerful, end-to-end network monitoring framework. Mission-Critical & Advanced Testing Capabilities on Display In addition to live network monitoring, SmartViser will demonstrate a broad portfolio of solutions, including: Mission-Critical (MCX) performance management , covering key KPIs for MCX services and operational assurance 5G testing and device validation , supporting reliable launches delivered on time and within budget through test automation viSer Neo+ , SmartViser’s advanced network troubleshooting solution for rapid root-cause analysis Best-in-class audio MOS assessment , supporting Android and iOS devices, cellular and OTT services, and emerging NTN use cases Battery performance and energy efficiency measurement , including compliance with the EU Energy Efficiency and Energy Labelling Regulation Meet SmartViser at MWC 2026 SmartViser invites operators, vendors, regulators, media, and ecosystem partners to visit Hall 5, Stand 5B61-36  to see live dashboards, explore real-world network insights, and discover how SmartViser helps organisations validate devices, monitor networks, and assure performance at scale . For meetings and demos during MWC 2026, please visit the SmartViser stand or contact the team in advance. Experience Joint Demos with Anritsu at Stand D41, Hall 5 SmartViser is proud to collaborate with Anritsu to showcase industry-leading innovations in service assurance and network performance testing. Visit Anritsu at Stand D41, Hall 5, for joint demonstrations. Join us at MWC 2026 – Hall 5, Stand 5B61-36. Let’s redefine network testing and automation together!   Meet SmartViser at MWC 2026! 📍 Visit us at Hall 5, Business France / French Tech Pavilion, Stand 5B61-36 📅 March 2-6, 2025 | Barcelona Book a meeting with our experts! About SmartViser SAS SmartViser is a leading telecommunications innovator, recognized for its expertise and commitment to customer-centric solutions. Its flagship test automation suite, viSer, enables OEMs, ODMs, Mobile Operators, MVNOs, Regulators, and telecom service providers to thoroughly test, benchmark, monitor, and measure Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) across devices and networks. The versatile viSer suite supports both active and passive monitoring on public, private, and mission-critical networks, offering comprehensive connectivity and device performance insights. viSer is device-agnostic, compatible with iOS and Android, and spans all telecom technologies from 2G to 5G, including VoLTE and VoWiFi. It covers numerous use cases, from POLQA voice quality assessments to speed tests, latency, throughput, calls, and network coverage analysis. SmartViser contributed significantly to the European Union’s Energy Labelling Regulations, ensuring viSer’s compliance with these standards. Beyond automation, SmartViser offers extensive field testing and is an accredited test house for the Altice Group, providing support in over 25 countries. Headquartered in Rennes, France, SmartViser collaborates globally to help customers adopt new technologies faster, reduce costs, and elevate product quality, enabling success in today’s rapidly advancing telecom landscape. You can find more information about SmartViser and its innovative software on the Web at  www.smartviser.com   Press Contact and General Information SmartViser                                      Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer  Susie.siouti@smartviser.com

SmartViser et l’ACMOSS renforcent leur collaboration pour une surveillance continue de la qualité des réseaux de communications critiques. Paris, France – 18/02/2026 SmartViser, acteur majeur de l'innovation en matière de solutions de test et de surveillance automatisées sur les réseaux mobiles publics, privés et critiques, annonce aujourd'hui l'extension de sa collaboration avec l’Agence des communications mobiles opérationnelles de sécurité et de secours (ACMOSS). Suite à la collaboration initiale annoncée en 2024, durant laquelle l’ACMOSS a adopté la solution d'automatisation des tests SmartViser pour évaluer les indicateurs clés de performance d’un réseau critique dans le cadre du déploiement du Réseau Radio du Futur (RRF) , le partenariat entre dans une nouvelle phase. Dans le cadre de ce partenariat renforcé, l’ACMOSS déploie les solutions de surveillance réseau de SmartViser en utilisant les mobiles identiques à ceux des abonnés du RRF. Ces solution permettent une visibilité continue et de bout en bout des performances du réseau en conditions opérationnelles réelles. Cette approche garantit une mesure précise de l'expérience utilisateur et des services critiques, quels que soient le lieu et l'environnement réseau. En s'appuyant sur ces équipements opérationnels pour assurer une surveillance continue, l’ACMOSS réaffirme son engagement à placer la qualité, la fiabilité et la résilience du réseau au premier plan. Cette solution fournit à l’ACMOSS les systèmes et outils nécessaires pour détecter proactivement les problèmes, valider les niveaux de service et garantir des performances constantes pour les communications critiques utilisées par les services d'urgence et de sécurité. « Cette nouvelle étape de notre collaboration témoigne d'un engagement commun envers l'excellence opérationnelle et l'assurance qualité continue des communications critiques », déclare Gilles Ricordel, PDG de SmartViser. « En combinant les tests automatisés et la surveillance du réseau sur des équipements réels, l’ACMOSS bénéficie d'une solution complète et évolutive pour soutenir le RRF et les services de communication de demain. » Ce partenariat renforcé souligne l'orientation stratégique de l’ACMOSS en tant qu’opérateur majeur de communications mobiles critiques en s’appuyant sur des capacités de surveillance continue, de la validation des performances en conditions réelles et de la capacité à répondre aux exigences changeantes des communications critiques en France. À propos de SmartViser SmartViser est un acteur majeur de l'innovation dans les télécommunications, reconnu pour son expertise et son engagement envers des solutions centrées sur le client. Sa palette de produits d'automatisation des tests, viSer, permet aux équipementiers, aux fabricants, aux opérateurs mobiles, aux MVNO, aux régulateurs et aux fournisseurs de services télécoms de tester, d'évaluer, de surveiller et de mesurer en profondeur la qualité de service (QoS) et la qualité d'expérience (QoE) sur l'ensemble des appareils et des réseaux. Les produits viSer, polyvalents, prennent en charge la surveillance active et passive des réseaux publics, privés et critiques, offrant une visibilité complète sur la connectivité et les performances des appareils. Compatible avec tous les appareils, iOS et Android, viSer couvre toutes les technologies télécoms, de la 2G à la 5G, y compris la VoLTE et la VoWiFi. Elle couvre de nombreux cas d'utilisation, des évaluations de la qualité vocale POLQA aux tests de latence, de débit, d'appels et d'analyse de la couverture réseau. SmartViser a contribué de manière significative à la réglementation européenne sur l'étiquetage énergétique, garantissant ainsi la conformité de viSer à ces normes. Outre l'automatisation, SmartViser propose des tests terrain et est un organisme de test accrédité du groupe Altice, intervenant dans plus de 25 pays. Basée à Rennes, en France, SmartViser collabore à l'échelle mondiale pour aider ses clients à adopter plus rapidement les nouvelles technologies, à réduire leurs coûts et à améliorer la qualité de leurs produits, leur permettant ainsi de réussir dans le secteur des télécommunications en constante évolution. Pour en savoir plus sur SmartViser et ses produits innovants, rendez-vous sur www.smartviser.com Susie Siouti Chief Commercial Officer info@smartviser.com

Dear Partners, Customers, and Friends, As we gather to celebrate the holiday season, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what has truly been an extraordinary year for SmartViser. 2025 has been a year marked by growth, innovation, and strong collaboration. We have continued to place sustainability at the heart of our mission, supporting our customers and laboratories in their successful transition to the new EU Energy Labeling regulation that came into force last June. Innovation has remained a key driver for SmartViser. Our R&D teams have once again demonstrated their excellence with the launch of a new product line focused on network monitoring using smartphone devices. This year saw the introduction of Viser Tempo , our active probing solution for foreground network monitoring, and Viser Mateo , our passive probing solution enabling background network monitoring. These solutions have already been successfully deployed in private and mission-critical network environments, and we look forward to accelerating their growth further in 2026. We also continued to expand our ecosystem and global presence. The new year will begin with our participation at CES in Las Vegas, starting January 6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), West Hall, Booth #6267, proudly hosted by our partner Anritsu. During CES, we will showcase end-to-end connectivity testing demonstrations, including an integrated testing environment combining SmartViser signaling and protocol monitoring solutions. These demos will be used to assess communication quality for connected vehicles, verifying network KPIs and validating Vehicle-to-Network (V2N) connectivity. This collaboration highlights how SmartViser and Anritsu are shaping the future of connected mobility through advanced test automation and real-time network quality insights. Our event journey will continue in February at the Tour de Ports de France in Toulon, at L’Eautel Toulon Port, followed by Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in March. We look forward to sharing our latest innovations across mobile network testing, mission-critical and private networks, automotive connectivity, non-terrestrial networks, and more. As we close the year, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to these achievements—our talented teams, trusted partners, and loyal customers. Your commitment and collaboration are the foundation of our success. Let us carry this momentum forward into the coming year, where I am confident even greater opportunities await us. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year. Warm regards, Gilles Ricordel CEO, SmartViser

A deep dive into the status, advantages, and challenges of VoNR — and how 5G voice performs in real-world tests. 5G has largely been adopted as a “data network” — the early 5G deployment modes were Non-Standalone (NSA), which piggyback on 4G LTE infrastructure for control plane and fall back to LTE (or earlier) for voice calls. But as operators roll out 5G Standalone (SA) cores and more complete 5G networks, the next frontier is VoNR  — Voice over New Radio — i.e. native voice calls over 5G without relying on legacy networks. What is VoNR (Voice over New Radio)? VoNR (sometimes called “5G Calling,” “Voice over 5G Standalone,” or simply Vo5G) refers to the capability to carry voice (and SMS/other communication services) entirely over a 5G network (i.e. 5G RAN + 5G core + IMS) without having to fall back to 4G/3G for voice. In the 3GPP and GSMA frameworks, VoNR is a natural evolution from VoLTE: the voice is delivered over an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) but using 5G radio. In practice, for VoNR to work, several prerequisites must be in place:  5G Standalone (SA) deployment (i.e., decoupled from LTE)  Radio coverage and capacity across frequency bands, especially in lower bands for broad coverage.  Devices (smartphones, modules) with firmware and hardware support for VoNR  Operator network support on IMS, radio, signaling, fallback mechanisms, etc. Because many existing 5G deployments are still NSA or mix 4G/5G, full VoNR readiness is a multi-phase transition. Current Status & Deployment (Mid-2025) Here’s a snapshot of where VoNR stands today : Global progress According to GSA’s “Global Progress to Voice over New Radio” report (October 2021), of many operators globally:  Some are evaluating or trialing VoNR  A smaller number are planning deployment  Only a few have soft-launched or deployed VoNR in a limited capacity Many operators are still relying on intermediate fallback solutions such as EPS Fallback (EPS-FB)  or hybrid mode, until coverage and maturity of 5G SA is adequate. Some regions with more advanced 5G SA deployment (e.g. parts of China, USA, and Singapore) have begun rolling out VoNR or testing it in live networks. UK / Europe In the UK, operators such as EE have already made public moves toward enabling VoNR / “5G Calling.” EE, for example, has set up a “5G+” branded network and provides instructions for enabling VoNR (5G Calling) on compatible devices. EE reportedly enabled “VoNR or 5G Calling” as of 6 June 2025 for devices that meet certain criteria (SIM, handset, plan) in areas with 5G+ coverage. However, coverage is still limited and selective; not all geographic areas or devices are yet supported, but an initial list can be found here. In Europe more broadly, some operators in Germany, for instance, Vodafone, have activated VoNR in certain cities. United States In the United States, T-Mobile US  was the first carrier to launch commercial Voice over New Radio (VoNR) services back in June 2022, marking a significant milestone in 5G evolution. Since then, T-Mobile has expanded VoNR availability across multiple cities — including New York, Seattle, Cincinnati, and New Orleans — while continuing to strengthen its 5G Standalone (SA) core capabilities. DISH Wireless (Boost)  has positioned itself as a VoNR leader, claiming coverage of more than 200 million POPs with native 5G voice supported across its nationwide network. AT&T  followed by announcing nationwide 5G SA in October 2025, progressively migrating customers onto the new core “in select areas every day.” This rollout lays the groundwork for AT&T to enable VoNR on a broader scale, though its FirstNet public safety network has yet to transition to SA. Meanwhile, Verizon  continues building out its 5G SA infrastructure — already deploying public-safety network slicing nationwide — and has successfully demonstrated VoNR sessions in partnership with Ericsson and MediaTek, including RedCap device testing. Although Verizon has not yet detailed commercial VoNR availability, its infrastructure progress indicates readiness for eventual deployment. Canada In Canada, Bell  became one of the first to activate VoNR for iPhone users in select areas such as the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as of August 2025. TELUS  has also gone live with 5G Standalone in parts of Western Canada, with early users reporting VoNR availability in limited regions. Rogers , while heavily promoting 5G-Advanced features and continued SA expansion, has been less vocal about its VoNR deployment status. Together, these rollouts signal that North America is entering the next phase of 5G voice maturity, with the U.S. leading on commercial scale and Canada steadily following suit. So, while VoNR is no longer just a concept, it is still in an early/transition stage — with selective deployment, limited coverage, and device constraints. Advantages & Promised Benefits of VoNR VoNR brings several compelling advantages compared to legacy voice mechanisms (CS fallback, VoLTE, etc.). Some of them overlap with VoLTE’s improvements over 2G/3G, but VoNR can push further due to 5G’s capabilities. Improved user experience & voice quality Use of modern codecs (e.g. EVS, Adaptive Multi-Rate Wideband) allows high-definition (HD) or even “super HD” voice, with better clarity, lower distortion, and improved robustness under poor radio conditions. Faster call setup times (reduced latency in signaling) thanks to more direct paths in 5G network functions. The ability to stay entirely on 5G: a VoNR call does not force a fallback to 4G or older. This is especially beneficial when there’s background data or simultaneous usage of data services (maps, messaging, etc.) during calls. Network and architectural benefits Eventually, operators can phase out older technologies (2G/3G) more cleanly, reducing operational costs and complexity of maintaining aging networks. VoNR is an essential step in that migration. Learn more about the status of the network Sunsetting Simplification: When voice, data, messaging, and other services all run over a unified 5G/IMS infrastructure, there is less need for interworking between separate legacy systems, potentially reducing integration overhead. Better utilization of spectrum and radio resources: voice traffic in VoNR can benefit from 5G’s scheduling, beamforming, interference management, and dynamic allocation, making voice more efficient. Enhanced opportunities for value-added services: Because voice runs in the same domain as data, more tightly integrated features (video calling, conferencing, real-time collaboration, augmented reality voice + data combining) are easier to implement. For the operator, VoNR supports “future-proofing” and eventual decommissioning of legacy systems. Challenges, Risks & Limitations of VoNR The path to widespread VoNR deployment is not trivial. Below are key hurdles, some technical, some operational/business, and some strategic. Technical & engineering challenges Coverage & propagation constraints   To deliver voice everywhere, the 5G network must provide broad coverage (especially in rural / indoor / edge areas). Lower frequency bands (e.g. < 1 GHz) are required for deep coverage, but deployment and spectrum availability may lag.  In areas where 5G is weak or intermittent, fallback to 4G/VoLTE or earlier is still required. Ensuring seamless and reliable handover is non-trivial. Interworking and handover complexity   VoNR must interwork with VoLTE, 2G/3G (while they still exist), and WiFi/VoWiFi as needed. Seamless handovers between these domains (while maintaining call continuity) is difficult. Dual connectivity (5G + LTE) and fallback mechanisms need careful design to avoid drops or service loss. Device and chipset support   - Not all smartphones currently on the market support VoNR (or support it fully). Some require firmware updates or hardware that meets certain 5G SA and IMS requirements.  Power consumption: use of 5G for voice may increase battery use in certain bands or conditions (especially if radios frequently switch).   Ensuring backward compatibility with non-VoNR devices in the same network is a burden. IMS, signaling, and core network upgrades   Operators need to upgrade their IMS infrastructure, ensure compatibility with new 5G core network functions, support quality control, and handle new interfaces (e.g. “N5” / HTTP/2 interfaces as optional enhancements). Ensuring end-to-end QoS (quality of service) and stability for voice flows over 5G is more demanding (because voice is latency-sensitive).  More stringent real-time performance, monitoring and optimization are needed. Latency, jitter, and reliability under mobility / varying load   5G networks, especially early deployments, may have variable performance across cell edges, mobility, or under congestion. Maintaining high voice quality in such dynamics is challenging.  Packet loss, delay, and jitter can degrade voice unless well mitigated. How Smartviser Supports the 5G and VoNR Journey Implementing 5G Standalone (SA) and Voice over New Radio (VoNR) comes with many challenges — from testing coverage to ensuring voice quality. Smartviser helps operators, device makers, and chipset vendors address these challenges efficiently through its Viser test automation platform. With Smartviser, you can: Automate testing  across multiple technologies — 5G, LTE, Wi-Fi, and VoWiFi — to validate coverage and connectivity. Verify seamless handovers and interworking  between 5G and legacy networks (VoLTE, EPS fallback) to prevent call drops or service loss. Test devices and chipsets  to confirm full compatibility with VoNR standards — crucial for smartphone manufacturers and network operators. Measure and optimize power consumption , ensuring new 5G devices manage battery life effectively under VoNR operation. Assess voice quality and user experience  using reliable metrics like MOS and POLQA to guarantee crystal-clear voice calls. Monitor Quality of Experience (QoE) and Quality of Service (QoS)  end-to-end to maintain consistent network performance. Accelerate deployment  by automating repetitive testing tasks, reducing time to market, and ensuring higher reliability. See the Results in Action To demonstrate how VoNR performs in real-world conditions, Smartviser put the Xiaomi 15 5G through a series of controlled field tests using its Viser automation platform. These tests compared VoNR and VoLTE performance across live networks, measuring: MOS voice quality and clarity Call setup time Handover performance between 5G and LTE The results reveal how 5G Standalone and VoNR deliver measurable improvements in user experience — and where further optimization is still needed. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Mobile Network operators shutting down 3G and in some cases, 2G has been a long time coming. Operators across the world have either already shut down their 2G and 3G or are planning to do so in the near future. Up until now, we had several new technologies co-existing with legacy technologies, but it is becoming more complex for Carriers to manage and manufacturers to support. According to GSAs latest report July 2025 278 operators in 83 countries and territories have completed, planned, or are in the process of switching off their 2G and 3G networks an increase from 77 countries in December 2024. 2G networks : A total of 131 operators in 65 countries  have completed or scheduled closures (up from 128 operators in 63 countries). Within this group: 51 operators in 29 countries  have fully shut down 2G. 66 operators in 40 countries  have closures planned. 14 operators in 8 countries  are actively phasing out 2G. 3G networks : 147 operators in 62 countries  are either finished, planning, or currently switching off services. This includes: 78 operators in 40 countries  with completed closures. 50 operators in 32 countries  with switch-offs planned. 19 operators in 15 countries  mid-process. Some shutdowns are government-driven, such as the UK’s mandate to retire 2G by 2033. Others are operator group-led; for example, Orange has set a 2030 deadline for shutting down 2G and 3G in Europe, though the timeline may differ across its markets. Europe seems to lead in the number of switch-offs, followed by Asia and North America, although its share has decreased since December 2023. As legacy technologies are sunset operators continue with their upgrades to both 4G and 5G technology. According to GSA 31.5% will be upgrading to LTE only; 4.6% will be moving to 5G, 5.3% to 3G and LTE; and 1.5% will be upgrading to 3G, 4G, and 5G. Source: 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association Global Picture for 2G Source 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association Global Picture for 3G Source 2025 Global Mobile Suppliers Association In Europe , 3G is expected to be switched off before 2G. Around 19 operators are planning to switch off their 3G Network by 2025 and around eight operators are planning to switch off their 2G network by 2025. June 2021 brought the shutdown of 3G in two operators in Germany Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom. Telefonica is also expected to shut down 3G by the end of 2021. In other countries, Telia will look to close 3G in all their countries between 2022 and 2025 and EE will be the first UK network to announce the shutdown of 3G. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. For Asia , 2G in countries like Japan was phased out a long time ago. The trend will continue with other countries and operators. A detailed breakdown is available. The Americas, especially the US is shutting down 2G networks on an accelerated scale. 3G networks will be shut down by all main operators by 2022. Around 15 operators in 7 countries have announced the closure of 2G by the end of 2025. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. For Oceania , 2G is almost phased out. In Australia, all 3 operators have shut down their 2G by the end of 2018 and 3G is on the way with Telstra the only one announcing a timeline for the end of 2024. A detailed breakdown is available in the table below. Africa i s the only region where no 2G or 3G shutdowns have been announced so far but it will be part of future planning once newer technologies penetrate more. A detailed breakdown is available. What 2G/ 3G shutdowns will mean for end-users ? This will force/encourage people to upgrade their phones to 4G. Many Operators seem to suggest that 2G in Europe will be around until 2030 and this is mainly due to implications of the M2M and IoT applications. In particular, the EU-mandated eCall, where long term agreements are in place, will need to be supported by the 2G technology before the work towards migration to IMS voice is fully completed. There are several drivers behind this change. Reuse of frequencies for new technology deployments like 4G and 5G. Most 2G use 850, 900, 1,800 or 1,900 MHz frequency bands. The sub-1 GHz bands, are very valuable due to their propagation characteristics, especially delivering greater coverage and in-building penetration. Reduce costs and effort in maintaining legacy radio networks Lower the energy consumption of the network. Vodafone New Zealand has announced back in 2019 that they are expecting around 10% savings in power consumption from migrating away from 2G and 3G technologies. Simplify the network operation This 2G and 3G network closure change are bringing several challenges to device manufacturers, Carriers/Mobile Network Operators and Mobile Virtual Network Operators. What will this mean for Smartphone Manufacturers? IMS (VoLTE & VoWiFi) will need to now be enabled by default on all devices. This will add additional testing requirements to ensure smooth interoperability on all networks to enable end-users to benefit from the latest technology and not rely on legacy technology. Testing on Roaming conditions should also be taken into account to ensure end-users Quality of Experience when using data or voice services. What will this mean for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)? The shutdown of 2G and 3G networks presents both strategic opportunities and operational challenges for MNOs. On one hand, retiring legacy technologies will enable operators to reduce operational and maintenance costs, streamline spectrum use, and reallocate valuable frequency bands to more efficient 4G and 5G networks. This transition supports improved data speeds, lower latency, and future-ready network architectures. However, these benefits come with important caveats. Operators must ensure robust 4G VoLTE coverage and sufficient network capacity before fully decommissioning 3G, as gaps in VoLTE availability could force users to fall back on 2G voice, leading to poor call quality and degraded customer experience. In areas where 2G is also being retired, this could result in service disruption, dropped calls, or loss of connectivity, ultimately damaging customer trust and brand loyalty. To mitigate these risks, MNOs should: Expand IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) capabilities to guarantee consistent VoLTE and VoWiFi performance. Conduct extensive testing across both domestic and roaming scenarios. Communicate proactively with customers about device compatibility and network changes. Maintain Quality of Service (QoS) during and after the transition through careful planning and monitoring. Ultimately, successful network sunsets depend on ensuring continuity of voice services, managing user migration, and investing in technologies that provide a seamless customer experience. What will this mean for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)? MVNOs face an even steeper challenge as 2G and 3G shutdowns accelerate globally. Without direct control over network infrastructure, MVNOs are highly dependent on host operators’ migration timelines and technical readiness. The example of Dish’s 2021 warning about disruptions from T-Mobile’s CDMA network shutdown illustrates the significant business risks posed by abrupt legacy network closures. To remain competitive, MVNOs must: Upgrade network agreements with host MNOs to ensure continued access to VoLTE and VoWiFi services. Deploy IMS-enabled SIMs and compatible devices, ensuring full interoperability across home and roaming networks. Educate customers on device upgrades and service transitions to minimize churn. Explore new service models (e.g., digital-first or 5G MVNOs) that leverage the improved capabilities of modern networks. Failure to adapt could lead to service degradation, lost customers, and reputational harm, especially in markets where legacy networks have supported key customer segments (e.g., IoT or low-cost prepaid users). In summary, while the 2G/3G shutdowns mark an important milestone in network modernization, both MNOs and MVNOs must strategically manage the migration to protect user experience, brand equity, and long-term competitiveness. Countries/Territories with VoLTE Service Status of European Network 2G/3G Shutdowns C ​Country Network Operator 2G 3G Albania Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2022 Albania One Albania By end 2025 Austria A1 ​ By end 2025 Austria T-Mobile ​ Closed 2024 Austria Drei By end 2025 ​Belgium Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 Belgium Proximus Closed 2024 Belgium Telenet ​ Closed 2024 Bulgaria A1 ​By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Croatia Hrvaski Telecom ​ By end 2025 Croatia A1 By end 2025 Czech Republic T-Mobile By end 2025 Closed 2021 Czech Republic Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2021 Czech Republic O2 By end 2028 Closed 2021 Denmark Telenor By end 2025 Closed 2023 Denmark Hi3G No Service By the end 2025 Denmark Norlys Closed 2023 Denmark TDC ​ Closed 2023 Estonia Telia By end 2029 Closed 2023 Estonia Elisa ​ Closed 2024 Finland Elisa ​By end 2029 Closed 2023 Finland Telia By end 2029 Closed 2023 Finland DNA By end 2029 Closed 2023 France Orange By end 2026 By end 2028 France SFR By end 2026 ​By end 2028 France Bouygues Telecom ​By end 2026 By end 2029 Country Network Operator 2G 3G Germany Vodafone By end 2030 Closed 2021 Germany Telefonica ​ Closed 2021 Germany Deutsche Telekom ​By end 2028 Closed Jun 2021 Greece Nova Closed 2023 Greece Cosmote ​By end 2025 Closed 2021 Greece Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2023 Hungary Magyar Telecom Closed 2022 Hungary One By end 2025 Closed 2023 Ireland Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2024 Ireland Three ​By end 2025 By end 2025 Italy TIM ​By end 2029 Closed 2022 Italy Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2021 Italy Wind By end 2025 Latvia Latvijas Mobilais Telefons ​By end 2025 By end 2025 Latvia Tele2 By end 2025 By end 2025 Latvia Telia ​By end 2025 Closed 2022 Latvia Bite By end 2025 By end 2026 Lithuania Telia By end 2025 Closed 2022 Lithuania Bite By end 2028 By end 2025 Lithuania Tele2 By end 2025 Luxembourg Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 Luxembourg Post ​By end 2027 Closed 2022 Malta Go By end 2030 Malta EPIC By end 2025 ​Closed 2024 Country Network Operator 2G 3G ​Netherlands ​KPN By end 2027 Closed Mar 2022 Netherlands Vodafone By end 2025 Closed Feb 2020 Netherlands Odido By end 2025 By end 2026 Norway Telenor By end 2027 Closed 2021 Norway Telia By end 2025 Closed Dec 2021 Poland T-Mobile By end 2030 Closed 2023 Poland Orange By end 2023 By end 2025 ​Portugal Vodafone By end 2025 Closed 2024 Portugal NOS Closed 2024 ​Romania Vodafone By end 2025 ​Closed 2023 ​Russia Tele2 ​ By end 2025 ​Slovakia Telekom ​ Closed 2023 Slovakia Orange By end 2030 Closed 2023 Spain Orange By end 2030 By end 2025 ​Spain Telefonica ​By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Spain Vodafone By end 2025 ​By end 2025 ​​Sweden Tele2 By end 2025 By end 2025 ​Sweden Telia By end 2027 By end 2025 ​Sweden Telenor By end 2025 By end 2025 Switzerland Sunrise By end 2023 By end 2025 ​Switzerland Swisscom Closed 2021 By end 2025 Switzerland Salt Closed 2022 ​ Country Network Operator 2G 3G United Kingdom EE By 2033 Closed 2024 United Kingdom Vodafone By end 2030 Closed 2024 United Kingdom 3 - Closed 2024 United Kingdom O2 By end 2033 By end 2025 Status of North America Network 2G/3G Shutdowns Country Network Operator 2G 3G US AT&T Closed in 2017 Closed 2022 US Sprint Closed 2021 Closed 2022 US T-Mobile Closed 2025 Closed 2022 US Verizon Closed 2020 Closed 2022 Canada Rogers Closed 2021 ​By end 2025 Canada SaskTel Closed 2017 ​ Canada Telus Closed 2017 By end 2025 Canada Bell Closed 2019 By end 2025 Status of Oceania Network 2G/3G Shutdowns Country Network Operator 2G 3G Australia Telstra Closed 2017 Closed 2024 Australia Optus Closed 2017 Closed 2024 ​Australia Vodafone Closed 2018 ​Closed 2024 New Zealand Vodafone By end 2025 ​By end 2025 New Zealand Two Degrees Network ​Closed 2018 Closed 2018 New Zealand Spark Closed 2017 By end 2026 Please note that data has been collected during August 2025 from various sources and is subject to change based on each Mobile Network O perator's schedule and timelines. 3G Al How can SmartViser Help? The widespread shutdown of 2G and 3G networks, combined with the rapid deployment of 5G and emerging technologies, presents a major challenge for the entire telecommunications ecosystem  — including Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), device manufacturers, MVNOs, regulators, and technology partners . Ensuring service continuity, maintaining quality of experience, and validating device and network interoperability across evolving standards are critical yet complex tasks. SmartViser  can help organizations navigate these challenges through its test automation and managed test service offerings , enabling faster, more reliable validation of network performance, voice and data services, and user experience across multiple technologies and markets. OPTION 1 - Test Automation Empower your team with the Test Automation Solution viSer to ensure superior Quality of Service QoS and Quality of Experience QoE. Test all key functions like VoLTE, VoWiFi, Data throughput, Audio MOS , Battery performance etc in live network or roaming conditions: OPTION 2 - Test Services Testing as a Service. Send us your devices in one or multiple locations across Europe. You no longer need to arrange and schedule travel for your staff. We can propose Network Test interoperability and test VoLTE/VoWiFi across any network in Europe. Our team of expert Test Engineers will provide logs to help the speedy resolution of issues and the test automation viSer will ensure greater testing scope in shorter times. Join our SmartViser Mailing List. Stay up-to-date with all the latest SmartViser testing, Performance Results and Reports. Just Subscribe to get interesting content to your inbox. Do you want to know more? Contact us for a Free Trial of viSer Test Automation Please message us to arrange a chat on how test automation or our test services can help you Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding an MBA from Henley Business School brings a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee , responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging a customer-centric culture. The main mission is to help organizations to create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Android 15 vs Android 16: Real-World Benchmarks on the Pixel 8a with SmartViser’s Viser Neo At SmartViser , we prioritise rigorous testing with our Viser Neo automation platform whenever a new Android release arrives. Each upgrade introduces new features, refinements, and potential optimisations—but the real question is: do they make a measurable difference in end-user experience? Using our Viser Neo active test automation platform , we benchmarked Android 15 (“Vanilla Ice Cream”)  against Android 16 (“Baklava”)  on the Google Pixel 8a . Our tests focused on the areas most relevant to users: battery life, gaming, web performance, data throughput, and streaming efficiency . To ensure fairness, both devices were set up under strictly controlled conditions : automatic brightness was disabled, volume levels were aligned, and all battery power-saving features were switched off. This guarantees that results reflect the OS performance itself, not environmental inconsistencies. Feature Differences: Android 15 vs Android 16 Android 15 Highlights Privacy & Security:  Theft Detection Lock, Private Space, stronger authentication. Multitasking:  Partial screen sharing, app pair shortcuts for foldables/tablets. Notifications:  Notification Cooldown to limit repetitive alerts. Media & Developer Tools:  HDR image format support, predictive back gesture, improved app archiving. Android 16 Enhancements Material 3 Expressive UI:  Richer animations, dynamic colors, blur effects. Notifications:  Live Updates, adaptive progress-based alerts. Desktop Multitasking Mode:  Early implementation for tablets and large screens. Security & Privacy:  Advanced Protection, USB port blocking, offline lock, enhanced Health Connect API. Audio/Media:  Auracast audio sharing, APV codec for high-quality video, integrated photo picker with cloud services. Performance & Dev Tools:  Enforced adaptive apps, improved scheduling, and vertical text support.   Category Android 15 Android 16 UI & Design Material You refinements Material 3: Expressive animations, color, blur effects Notifications Notification cooldown Live Updates, progress notifications, bundling, cooldowns Multitasking App pairs, partial screen sharing Desktop mode (tablet), adaptive apps support Media & Pickers HDR support Embedded photo picker with cloud integration Security & Privacy Theft detection, private space Advanced Protection, USB/blocking, battery health tools Audio/Video APV codec, Auracast audio sharing Health Data Integration FHIR support in Health Connect Performance & Dev Tools App archiving, ART improvements Compatibility mode, efficient scheduling Test Environment Validation Before diving into performance benchmarks, it’s critical to ensure both Android 15 and Android 16 were tested under identical and controlled conditions . Using Viser Neo , we validated the test environment and recorded the following baseline parameters: Volume (Voice Call):  Both OS versions were set to an average level of 5 . Brightness:  Both maintained the same average brightness setting of 11 , with automatic brightness disabled. Volume (Music):  Both set to the same maximum level of 6 . These consistent settings confirm that differences observed in later benchmarks—whether in battery performance, gaming, web performance, data throughput, or streaming—can be attributed to the OS changes rather than test setup inconsistencies. Web Browsing Performance To evaluate real-world browsing speed, we tested multiple websites and measured Interactive loading time  using Viser Neo. Results showed: Average Loading Time:  Android 15 – 492 ms , Android 16 – 484 ms Minimum Loading Time:  Android 15 – 80 ms , Android 16 – 70 ms Maximum Loading Time:  Android 15 – 4106 ms , Android 16 – 4388 ms Overall, both OS versions delivered near-identical browsing performance , with Android 16 showing a slight advantage in average and minimum loading times . The higher maximum value on Android 16 suggests that occasional page load spikes still occur, likely influenced by network or rendering variations rather than core OS changes. These findings indicate that end users moving from Android 15 to Android 16 are unlikely to notice significant differences in day-to-day browsing speed. Data Performance Using Viser Neo, we benchmarked HTTP download  and upload throughput  to assess raw data performance under controlled conditions. The average results were: Average Download Throughput:  Android 15 – 46.93 Mbps , Android 16 – 42.89 Mbps Average Upload Throughput:  Android 15 – 22.37 Mbps , Android 16 – 21.57 Mbps In both upload and download, Android 15 slightly outperformed Android 16 , though the differences are small enough that most users may not notice in everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media uploads, or streaming. These results could be influenced by subtle differences in network stack behaviour or background OS processes in Android 16. Battery Performance To simulate a typical day of user activity , we ran continuous mixed-use scenarios including gaming, browsing, streaming, file transfers, and idle time. Both Android versions were tested under identical conditions with all power-saving features disabled. Battery Life: Android 15 – 17h 13m 08s Android 16 – 17h 13m 11s The results show no meaningful difference in endurance , with both versions performing almost identically. Current Consumption (per activity): Gaming (WebGL) remained the most demanding activity, averaging around -1350 mA  on both OS versions. Other tasks such as web browsing, video streaming, HTTP upload/download, and local playback showed similar consumption across Android 15 and 16 , confirming stable energy profiles. Battery Temperature: Average temperature on Android 15: 25.9°C Average temperature on Android 16: 26.2°C Both showed consistent thermal management patterns, with Android 16 running fractionally warmer but without significant deviation. Takeaway:  Battery endurance, consumption distribution, and thermal stability remain consistent between Android 15 and 16 . Users upgrading should not expect gains or losses in daily longevity, which highlights the maturity of Google’s power optimization across Android releases. Gaming Performance Gaming remains one of the most demanding use cases, so we tested WebGL-based graphics performance  to measure frames per second (FPS). Average FPS:  Android 15 – 52 FPS , Android 16 – 48 FPS Minimum FPS:  Android 15 – 42 FPS , Android 16 – 35 FPS Maximum FPS:  Android 15 – 62 FPS , Android 16 – 61 FPS While both OS versions delivered a smooth experience, Android 15 consistently achieved slightly higher frame rates  across all measurements. On Android 16, frame rates dipped more significantly at the lower end (minimum FPS), which could result in occasional drops in fluidity during demanding gaming sessions. This suggests that while Android 16 introduces new system-level features and UI improvements, its graphics pipeline may still require further optimisation for high-performance gaming. For most casual users, the difference will be marginal, but heavy gamers may notice Android 15 running a touch smoother under intensive loads. Streaming Performance For video streaming, we measured streaming efficiency , representing how consistently data was delivered and rendered without stalling or buffering. Average Efficiency:  Android 15 – 99.9% , Android 16 – 99.8% Minimum Efficiency:  Both Android 15 and 16 – 99.7% Maximum Efficiency:  Both Android 15 and 16 – 99.9% These near-perfect results show that both OS versions handle video streaming seamlessly , with no meaningful difference between Android 15 and Android 16. End users should expect smooth playback, stable buffering, and no visible degradation when upgrading. Conclusion & Recommendation Our benchmarking of Android 15 vs Android 16  on the Google Pixel 8a , using SmartViser’s Viser Neo test automation , shows that the two operating systems deliver a very similar end-user experience  under controlled lab conditions. Battery Life & Thermal Stability:  Both OS versions lasted over 17 hours , with almost identical current consumption across usage scenarios. Temperature remained stable, with Android 16 only marginally warmer on average. Web Browsing:  Both OS versions were highly comparable, with Android 16 showing a slight edge in average and minimum loading times , though occasional load spikes still occur. Data Performance:  Android 15 recorded slightly higher upload and download throughput , but the difference is small and unlikely to impact real-world user experience. Gaming:  Android 15 achieved higher average and minimum FPS , making it the better performer for intensive gaming. Android 16 is smooth for casual play but may require further optimisation for demanding titles. Streaming Efficiency:  Both versions delivered near-perfect performance (≈100%) , ensuring smooth and reliable video playback. SmartViser’s Take For end users, upgrading to Android 16 will not drastically change performance  in key areas like battery life, browsing, streaming, or daily app usage. The main improvements of Android 16 lie in new features, UI refinements, and enhanced security tools  rather than raw performance gains. If you are a heavy gamer , Android 15 may still feel marginally smoother, but most other users will not notice a difference. If you value security, privacy, and new functionality , Android 16 is the clear choice, offering features like Advanced Protection, improved multitasking, and Material 3 UI updates. Ultimately, the upgrade decision comes down to whether users prioritise stability and slightly better gaming on Android 15 , or new features and improved system-level protections on Android 16 . At SmartViser, our role is to ensure these insights are backed by real measurements under repeatable conditions , helping the industry and end-users alike make informed choices. About SmartViser’s Viser Neo All benchmarks in this study were conducted using SmartViser’s Viser Neo test automation solution . Viser Neo enables fully automated, repeatable, and reliable performance testing  across any device—regardless of operating system, chipset, model, or brand . This flexibility allows us to deliver unbiased insights and validate real-world end-user experience across a wide range of scenarios. With Viser Neo, manufacturers, operators, and enterprises can accelerate device benchmarking, compare OS upgrades, and ensure that every change delivers measurable value to end users. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

5G Smartphones and the Heat Challenge — 2025 Update A few years ago, we investigated what was an early trend of devices overheating when using 5G and wrote a report about this trend. Smartviser’s original 2022 study demonstrated that first‑generation 5G smartphones could exceed critical thermal thresholds in fewer than twenty minutes of continuous high‑throughput operation, even within a climate‑controlled environment. Since that initial investigation, both cellular networks and handset platforms have evolved substantially. In response to these developments, the Smartviser team undertook an expanded assessment campaign in 2025, employing the enhanced viSer Neo  automation and Studio Analytics suite to conduct controlled tests on current flagship and mid‑tier devices. The objectives of the campaign were: To quantify the extent to which sustained 5G utilisation continues to precipitate device overheating or performance throttling in commercially available smartphones. To evaluate the effectiveness of the thermal‑mitigation measures now incorporated into contemporary chipsets, mechanical designs, and operating‑system frameworks. Looking Back: What We Learnt in 2022 In our 2022 post “Smartphones – Can They Handle the Heat of 5G?”  we explored the first wave of 5G‑induced thermal issues. Overheating isn’t new, but 5G accelerates it. Even in an air‑conditioned 16 °C lab with excellent 5G coverage, several handsets overheated within 20 minutes of continuous 5G data transfer. Key Findings: Three smartphone Overheating Groups Identified Group 1: Remained stable No overheating occurred. Devices maintained data transfer with no performance degradation. Group 2: Triggered overheating warnings Reached 48°C in 20 minutes. Devices displayed overheating warnings and showed visible performance drops. viSer Studio Analytics provided visual KPI insights showing temperature spikes in parallel with data throughput. Group 3: Throttled performance or downgraded from 5G to 4G  to manage temperature Overheated after ~20 minutes. Devices automatically: Closed background apps. Switched from 5G to 4G to cool down. With rapid advances in both 5G infrastructure and device technology, we decided it was time to revisit the topic. 5G in 2025: A Maturity Story Across the globe, 5G networks have entered a mature phase . Consistent mid-band spectrum deployment, improvements in backhaul, and smarter network management have led to significantly faster and more stable connections—especially in cities and major transport corridors. 🌍 Average 5G Download Speeds (2025) Region Country Average 5G Download Speed Europe France 270 Mbps Germany 310 Mbps UK 320 Mbps Spain 290 Mbps Italy 250 Mbps Sweden 380 Mbps North America USA 410 Mbps (urban areas) Canada 360 Mbps Asia-Pacific South Korea 520 Mbps (nationwide) Japan 450 Mbps China 460 Mbps (Tier 1 cities) India 310 Mbps (major metros) These speeds are not only faster but more consistent, thanks to widespread mid-band deployments and mmWave trials in dense urban zones. But higher throughput can still mean higher thermal pressure—so how are modern smartphones coping? SmartViser Testing: 2025 Results In our latest 2025 study, we observed a notable shift in device behavior compared to our 2022 findings. While extreme overheating leading to shutdowns or fallback to 4G was common three years ago, that is no longer the norm. Most smartphones we tested this year demonstrated smarter, more nuanced heat mitigation techniques—likely the result of tighter integration between chipset, OS, and thermal management algorithms. That said, a few devices still triggered high-temperature warnings, effectively limiting user interaction until the temperature dropped. These were generally budget or mid-tier models lacking advanced cooling or thermal governance. However, the standout trend in our 2025 results was the implementation of intelligent frequency throttling. Here’s an example from our testing: A 5G smartphone was part of a drive test, performing continuous web browsing over a 1-hour session . 📱 Observations from drive test with web browsing: Network status:  The device remained on 5G for 98%  of the test and only briefly fell back to LTE (2%). Performance:  Web loading times were stable throughout  the test. Thermal response:  As device temperature rose, it began throttling certain frequency bands —specifically in the uplink and mid-band spectrum—reducing RF power load. Outcome:  This successfully prevented further temperature increases  without impacting the user experience. SmartViser Analytics Studio PS RAT Graph and Battery Temperature SmartViser Analytics Studio Web Browsing Loading Time and CPU Frequencies This kind of adaptive thermal response  demonstrates the growing sophistication in smartphone design, where thermal limits are respected without compromising performance . We see this as a major step forward, and an indication that 5G smartphones in 2025 are no longer limited by the heat risks that once threatened the user experience. Intensive Testing: Gaming Under Pressure Over the course of this year’s study, we conducted over 250 hours of testing using a wide range of smartphones and test scenarios—progressively increasing in complexity to explore the limits of thermal endurance and system stability. One of the most demanding scenarios was intensive online gaming over a 5G network, with each session lasting up to 3 hours. 🎮 Gaming Test Key Findings: All devices eventually switched from 5G to 4G at some point during the session. Temperatures ranged from 40°C to 48°C, depending on the device, chipset, and cooling system. We observed a range of thermal mitigation strategies: Multi-step throttling: Some smartphones gradually reduced CPU/GPU load across several stages as temperature rose. Network fallback: Rather than allowing the device to overheat, all models opted to switch to 4G at higher thermal thresholds. Background process management: Several devices aggressively limited non-essential background apps or services to preserve stability. SmartViser Analytics Studio PS RAT and temperature graph These results confirm that while heat remains a factor under prolonged, intensive use , manufacturers have clearly improved their approach. Instead of a single thermal trigger, most modern smartphones intelligently manage performance in layers , prioritising both device protection  and user experience . Extreme Stress Testing: 5G Downloads at Full Throttle To push the boundaries even further, we conducted a series of super-intensive tests focused on sustained high-volume downloads over 5G. These sessions were designed to simulate heavy real-world scenarios such as bulk file transfers, high-resolution media downloads, and software updates over 5G, non-stop. 📉 Observations from Extreme Download Tests: After just 26 minutes of continuous operation, some models displayed high-temperature warning messages. In the most severe cases, devices are ultimately powered off entirely due to reaching critical thermal thresholds exceeding 50°C. Across different models, we observed: Multi-step thermal throttling to reduce performance gradually Network fallback mechanisms switching from 5G to LTE Final shutdown as a last-resort safety measure SmartViser Analytics Studio CPU Frequency and Throughput DL Graph SmartViser Analytics Studio Battery Temperature and Throughput upload graph This scenario, while not typical for most users , is a vital edge case  for manufacturers to test. It highlights how certain designs may still fail under extreme pressure , risking service disruption and poor user experience  if not properly addressed during the development cycle. Conclusion: 2025 – A Smarter Approach to Heat Our extensive 2025 testing confirms what the industry has been aiming for: smartphones have come a long way since the early 5G overheating concerns of 2022 . While heat management remains a key challenge—especially during extreme use cases— most modern devices now integrate intelligent and layered thermal mitigation strategies . ✅ We observed: Proactive throttling  of frequencies and processing power Seamless fallback to 4G  when thresholds were crossed Stable user experience  during standard and moderately heavy use Clear thermal control strategies  even under intense load like gaming and downloads However, our extreme stress tests showed that some devices still failed under prolonged heavy load, with shutdowns occurring beyond 50°C. These edge cases highlight that comprehensive thermal testing remains essential, especially early in product development when design and software-level mitigations can still be refined. Manufacturers must balance performance, battery life, and user safety—and the best-performing devices in our testing did so with minimal compromise to usability. As 5G-Advanced and new use cases (like XR, AI processing, and cloud gaming) push devices even harder, heat will continue to be a defining factor in mobile innovation. At SmartViser, we remain committed to helping manufacturers and network providers test smarter, earlier, and deeper with our viSer test automation suite—ensuring better performance, improved safety, and superior user experiences. All test scenarios in this study were executed using viSer Neo , SmartViser’s advanced test automation solution. One of viSer Neo’s key advantages is its ability to run directly on commercial Android devices without requiring any custom firmware or rooting , ensuring that testing conditions reflect real-world user behavior as closely as possible . All tests were conducted in France using local 5G networks , and identical scenarios were applied across multiple Android smartphones to maintain consistency and comparability. viSer Neo captures over 100 KPIs  in every session, and when combined with Analytics Studio , results can be visualised through interactive dashboards offering a wide range of charts, graphs, maps, pie charts , and granular drill-down views —enabling detailed and flexible analysis tailored to specific insights. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) have quietly become a multibillion‑dollar force in telecoms. Analysts put the global MVNO market at roughly US $ 98 billion in 2025, on track to top US $ 170 billion by 2032   Fortune Business Insights , while subscription counts are expanding faster than the wider mobile market, at 3.6 % CAGR through 2029   Omdia . In other words, more consumers, enterprises and connected “things” are choosing a brand that doesn’t even own a radio tower . Yet the commercial freedom MVNOs enjoy—lighter assets, faster launches, razor‑sharp niches—comes with a hidden catch: they must guarantee service quality over infrastructure they don’t control . That tension only intensifies as the industry splits into two distinct camps: B2C MVNOs  chasing price‑sensitive or lifestyle segments, where a single dropped call can trigger social‑media churn. B2B/enterprise MVNOs  delivering 5G network slices for factories, hospitals and fleets, where penalties kick in the moment an SLA is missed. In this article we will — Define what an MVNO is  and how it differs from its host MNO. Map the main MVNO flavours , from discount consumer brands to slice‑enabled industrial players. Unpack the operational challenges —margin squeeze, RAN dependency, tight enterprise SLAs—and the KPIs that matter. Show how SmartViser’s test‑automation and real‑device monitoring platform closes the assurance gap , giving MVNOs live QoS & QoE evidence they can take to the boardroom—or the customer’s service review. Whether you run a consumer sub‑brand or a mission‑critical IoT network, robust testing and continuous monitoring  aren’t optional extras; they are the foundations of subscriber trust and contract profitability. What exactly is an MVNO? A mobile virtual network operator (MVNO)  is a telecom brand that buys wholesale radio‑access capacity from a licensed mobile‑network operator (MNO) and resells it under its own brand . An MVNO typically owns the commercial layers—SIMs/eSIMs, branding, pricing, customer care, billing and sometimes its own core network elements—but does not own spectrum or base‑station (RAN) assets , which remain under the MNO’s control. In contrast, an MNO  finances and operates the radio spectrum, towers, back‑haul and national licences. Some MVNOs integrate more deeply (so‑called full MVNOs  with their own HLR/HSS, PGW, etc.), whereas “light” or “reseller” MVNOs focus mainly on sales and marketing Onomondo . How MVNOs differ from MNOs at a glance Area MNO MVNO Spectrum & RAN Owns/licensed Rents wholesale CapEx intensity Very high Low/asset‑light Network control Full QoS prioritisation Limited; subject to host MNO prioritisation Time‑to‑market Slower (infrastructure cycles) Faster, brand‑driven Typical differentiation Coverage, bundling (handsets, fixed lines) Pricing, niche segments, value‑added services Key challenges MVNOs face today Quality‑of‑service dependency  – Traffic is usually deprioritised during cell congestion, leading to higher latency, jitter or lower speeds compared with the host MNO. Next‑gen technology access (5G SA, network slicing, VoLTE/VoNR)  – MVNOs rely on their host to make features available and must then ensure handset compatibility and back‑office upgrades. Margin pressure from wholesale rates & price wars  – Wholesale terms are often volume‑based; intense SIM‑only competition erodes ARPU. High churn & Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC)  – Budget‑conscious users are quick to switch; marketing spend can outstrip lifetime value if not managed carefully. Limited brand stickiness  – When the core offer is “same network, lower price”, differentiation must come from service experience, ecosystem perks or laser‑focused niches. Regulatory & data‑privacy compliance  – KYC/AML rules, eSIM remote provisioning, emergency‑services location accuracy, GDPR, etc. Operational visibility  – Without direct access to RAN counters, MVNOs must invest in active/drive‑testing or API‑based monitoring to see what customers really experience.   KPIs MVNOs should monitor continuously Technical / QoS KPIs  (Test Automation and smartphone devices as probes & SLA management) Access/Attach success rate  – SIM registration & authentication failures Voice  – Call‑setup time (CST), VoLTE fallback rate Data  – DL/UL throughput http/ftp/bi-directional, latency (RTT), jitter, packet‑loss % Messaging  – SMS/MMS delivery time & success rate 5G slice availability / hand‑over success    Consumer‑ vs business‑focused MVNOs Dimension B2C MVNOs B2B / Enterprise‑first MVNOs Typical positioning Low‑cost SIM‑only, lifestyle/brand extensions ( e.g. supermarket, youth, ethnic calling ) Managed mobility, IoT connectivity, private/campus networks, global eSIM hubs Buyer Individual subscribers‑at‑scale CIO/CTO, operations or OT teams Value lever Price simplicity, community perks, flexible bundles SLA‑backed connectivity, integration with IT/OT, analytics & security Wholesale deal Usually “best‑effort” bit‑pipe with retail margin Often bespoke: dedicated APNs, static IP, QoS class identifiers (QCIs) or a full 5G network slice Capabilities to own Digital CX, referral engine, churn analytics Service orchestration, SIM lifecycle, edge/cloud integration, multi‑IMSI steering Regulatory load Consumer protection, number portability In addition: ISO 27001, sector‑specific (health, utilities), data‑residency     B2C archetypes Discount/price‑fighter  – e.g. SMARTY, Visible. Brand‑extension  – e.g. Tesco Mobile, Superdrug Mobile. Community/lifestyle  – youth (giffgaff), international (Lycamobile). Digital nomad/eSIM‑only  – Airalo, Holafly. B2B archetypes Corporate mobility MVNO  – pooled data and voice with global roaming, device‑fleet portals. IoT/M2M specialists  – connectivity plus API/SaaS for logistics, automotive (KORE, Cubic Telecom). Private‑/campus‑5G enablers  – carve out a wholesale 5G network slice  or lease local spectrum to run an on‑prem 5G core for factories, ports or hospitals  MVNO‑as‑a‑Service aggregators  – white‑label platforms letting brands spin up their own offers. Why network slicing is a game‑changer for B2B MVNOs Network slicing (5G SA)  = a virtual end‑to‑end network instance with its own QoS, security and policy, delivered over the shared RAN, transport and core. What an enterprise MVNO can do with a slice Use case Slice attribute Example vertical Ultra‑reliable low‑latency comms (URLLC) ≤10 ms RTT, 99.999 % availability Robotics on an automotive line; remote surgery rooms Massive IoT (mMTC) Battery‑efficient signalling, high device density Smart‑meter fleets, agriculture sensors High‑throughput FWA Guaranteed 200 Mbps+ downlink Retail branch connectivity, pop‑up venues Mission‑critical voice/video Priority bearer, local breakout Public safety, energy utilities With GSMA Open Gateway and 3GPP NEF APIs, a full MVNO can programmatically request, expand or tear down slices  per customer or per site, bundling them with edge‑compute and security services  CSG Commercial models emerging Slice‑as‑a‑Service  – monthly fee per site/device group for a managed slice. Private‑network extension  – single SIM roaming seamlessly between a campus slice and the public macro network (Transatel P‑LTE/5G extension)  Transatel . Outcome‑based SLA  – e.g. “< 50 ms motion‑control latency, 99.95 % uptime”, with penalties baked into the wholesale agreement. Additional challenges specific to B2B MVNOs Challenge Mitigation Multi‑slice orchestration & OSS/BSS readiness Adopt cloud‑native core and policy control that can tag traffic per slice; upgrade billing to rate per SLA tier. Device & modem compatibility Work with OEMs for SA‑capable chipsets and enterprise firmware supporting slice selection and URSP rules ( Android Open Source Project ). Security & isolation Offer options for on‑prem UPF breakout, IPsec tunnels into enterprise WAN, zero‑trust SIM authentication. Complex contracting Enterprise‑grade support (24/7 NOC), liability cover, and procurement frameworks (ITIL, ISO, NDAA where needed). Why continuous, real‑device monitoring is critical for MVNO SLAs Enterprise contracts usually carry tight latency, throughput and availability guarantees that far exceed consumer “best‑effort” levels. Because an MVNO has no native RAN counters and may be running several dedicated 5G slices at once, the only reliable way to prove compliance—or to catch a breach before it hurts production—is to measure performance from the same device types and SIM profiles the customer actually uses . SmartViser’s viSer  platform shows how this is done: it turns ordinary Android or iOS handsets into 24 × 7 autonomous probes that execute user actions like voice, data, video and application workflows on the live slice, streaming granular QoS  metrics (throughput, latency, hand‑over success,) and   QoE  metrics (POLQA MOS, page‑load time, video buffering, battery drain) to a cloud dashboard. Because every data point comes from a real device under real radio conditions , the MVNO can present indisputable evidence during quarterly service reviews, trigger automated trouble tickets the moment a KPI drifts, and even feed predictive models that warn of SLA breaches before users notice. Conclusion Across today’s rapidly evolving MVNO landscape—from cost‑focused consumer brands to enterprise providers leveraging dedicated 5G network slices—successful operators have three critical imperatives: Clearly define and differentiate the value proposition.  Whether addressing budget‑sensitive retail segments or delivering high‑availability, low‑latency connectivity for industrial sites, each MVNO must translate wholesale capacity into a distinctive customer experience. Monitor the metrics that matter.  Technical key performance indicators such as call‑setup success, data throughput, latency, messaging delivery and slice availability form the foundation of service assurance. When correlated with commercial measures—churn, Net Promoter Score and contractual SLA compliance—these metrics provide a comprehensive view of network health and business performance. Provide continuous, evidence‑based assurance.  Measurements taken on real smartphones and IoT endpoints, under live network conditions, remain the most reliable proof of Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE), particularly where financial penalties are tied to enterprise SLAs. SmartViser: Comprehensive, Automated Assurance SmartViser’s integrated platform addresses these imperatives through a fully automated, device‑centric monitoring solution: SmartViser Capability Benefit to the MVNO viSer autonomous device probes Converts standard smartphones and industry‑specific devices into 24/7 test agents—eliminating the cost and complexity of traditional testing. Voice, data, messaging, and slice workflows Recreates real user journeys, capturing detailed QoS and QoE indicators. Multi‑layer interactive dashboard Consolidates network and SLA data into an intuitive interface, SmartViser thus equips MVNOs with a single, end‑to‑end assurance framework—transforming raw network data into actionable intelligence while reducing operational overhead. By adopting this platform, MVNOs can demonstrate service excellence, uphold stringent SLAs and maintain the customer confidence that underpins sustainable growth. Susie Siouti is the Chief Commercial Officer for SmartViser helping organisations in the Telecommunications industry offer superior end-user  quality of experience and service with the introduction of innovative test automation products. Susie has 20 years of experience in the Telecoms industry and in that time has led  teams across the world mainly in Testing and Compliance. Holding  an MBA from Henley Business School   brings  a diverse set of skills and expertise, including business acumen, strategic thinking, financial management, sales and marketing expertise, leadership, and innovation. Susie joined SmartViser in 2016, is part of the internal steering committee ,   responsible for developing and implementing the company's commercial strategy and encouraging  a customer-centric  culture. The main  mission is to help organizations to  create value by offering better quality products and services by improving operational efficiency and innovation.