The satellite industry's most expensive problem isn't in orbit, it's on the ground. While companies like AST SpaceMobile, SpaceX, and Skylo are launching satellites into low Earth orbit to provide global connectivity, the real challenge lies in harmonizing the financial systems of satellite and mobile network operators (MNOs). The current situation is a classic case of two industries with different histories and processes struggling to work together. The result? A lack of investment and innovation, and a slow adoption of satellite technology. The key to unlocking the potential of satellite connectivity lies in the Billing and Charging Evolution (BCE) framework, which supports flexible charging models. However, MNOs are hesitant to adopt BCE because they don't see enough near-term revenue from satellite services. This is a critical issue, as the satellite industry needs to move quickly to stay competitive. The longer it takes for MNOs to embrace BCE, the fewer companies will be around to make satellite connectivity a reality. The satellite industry is at a crossroads. It has the technology and the vision, but it needs the financial systems and processes to support its growth. The question is, will MNOs step up and embrace BCE, or will they let the satellite industry fall behind? Personally, I think the satellite industry has the potential to revolutionize global connectivity, but it needs the support of MNOs to make it happen. The longer it takes, the more the satellite industry will pay for its hesitation. What makes this particularly fascinating is the historical parallel between the satellite and mobile industries. When mobile roaming was new, MNOs had no way to handle traffic across borders. Over time, they came together to create frameworks and standards that ensure interoperability and handle billions of dollars in settlements. This history should inform the current situation, and the industry needs to commit to the BCE framework to unlock the potential of satellite connectivity. In my opinion, the satellite industry has the opportunity to lead the way in global connectivity, but it needs to work with MNOs to create a sustainable and profitable business model. The longer it takes, the more the industry will pay for its hesitation. One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of financial systems in the satellite industry. What many people don't realize is that the current financial system is a relic from 1991, and it's holding back the industry's growth. If you take a step back and think about it, the satellite industry has the potential to transform global connectivity, but it needs the financial systems to support its vision. This raises a deeper question: will the satellite industry be able to overcome its financial challenges and create a sustainable business model? A detail that I find especially interesting is the role of MNOs in the satellite industry. They have the power to shape the future of satellite connectivity, but they need to embrace BCE to unlock its potential. What this really suggests is that the satellite industry needs to work with MNOs to create a win-win situation, where both industries can benefit from the growth of satellite connectivity. In conclusion, the satellite industry has the potential to revolutionize global connectivity, but it needs the financial systems and processes to support its growth. The longer it takes for MNOs to embrace BCE, the more the industry will pay for its hesitation. The satellite industry is at a critical juncture, and it needs to act quickly to stay competitive. If it doesn't, it may be left behind by the next wave of innovation.
