Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market will Reach USD 99.70 billion by 2027


The global mobile virtual network operator market size was USD 64.17 billion in 2019 and expected to reach USD 99.70 billion by 2027; this converts into a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.66% for the forecast period.

The market is segmented to include:

By deployment:

  • Cloud
  • On-premise

By operational mode:

  • Reseller
  • Service Operator
  • Full MVNO
  • Other

By subscriber:

  • Enterprise
  • Consumer

By application:

  • Discount
  • Cellular M2M
  • Business
  • Media & entertainment
  • Migrant
  • Retail
  • Roaming
  • Telecom

Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market by Geography Overview:

Based on geography, market is segmented as below:

  • North America
  • Europe
  • APAC
  • Latin America (LATAM)
  • Middle East & Africa (MEA)

A wireless communications network provider that does not own the infrastructure over which it provides services to its customers is known as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). A MVNO could set up its own customer service, billing support systems, marketing and more or collaborate with a mobile virtual network enabler (MVNE).

A highly competitive MVNO market is predicted to witness a steady growth during the forecast years owing to the development of IoT, cloud, AI, etc. and a high demand for the resulting data applications such as M2M, mobile money, video streaming and more. Heavy investments for improving network coverage and mobile broadband connections will further fuel the market.

Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market dynamics:

It is estimated that around 1.2 billion individuals will have access to mobile devices by 2027. To put this in perspective, the number represents over 15% of the world’s population. The growing penetration of mobile devices will subsequently create a surge in mobile network subscribers. Moreover, there has been a surge in demand for efficient cellular network and an increase in investments for the development of related infrastructure. All of these factors will drive the mobile virtual network operator market forward.

Recent News:

  1. In October 2020, Boost Mobile announced a limited-time offer in the U.S., with wireless plans starting at USD 10/month on the carrier’s New Upgraded Network. The lowest cost plan in the wireless market provides unlimited talk and text along with 2GB of high-speed data.
  2. Lycamobile UK Ltd. was awarded a National Telecommunications Operator (NTO) license in Uganda, in May 2021. The carrier is Uganda’s fourth national operator alongside Uganda Telecom Ltd. (UTL), MTN and Airtel.

Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market segmentation and geographic breakdown:

Rapid adoption of the IoT technology coupled with the growth of the smart home sector will boost the cloud segment’s expansion. However, its ability to overcome traditional challenges that arise while relying on public infrastructure has led to its dominance in 2019. It garnered more than USD 40 billion in revenues.

The full MVNO segment held majority of the market in 2019 due to a low capital investment required for implementation while giving full call control. The service operator segment, on the other hand, is anticipated to register an approximate 8.5% CAGR during the forecast period. The fast growth can be attributed to the flexibility it offers and its ability to provide smooth integration with other services.

Advancements in technology, increasing access to mobile devices, rising number of network subscribers, surge in e-commerce activities and more are encouraging the consumer segment’s growth. These factors are also responsible for the segment accounting for more than 60% of the MVNO market in 2019.

The discount segment held over USD 16 billion in 2019 and is also expected to expand at the fastest rate among its counterparts. The high competition in the market has rendered numerous companies to provide low-cost calls and SMS and other popular services at a discounted price.

Asia-Pacific secured around 40% of the MVNO market in 2019. The steady growth of telecom infrastructure in the region, as well as the introduction of new services, will positively influence the regional market. The European market is characterized by a supportive regulatory framework and an increase in data services.

Competitive Intelligence

A few key players include, but not limited to: Lebara Group B.V., TracFone Wireless Inc., FRiENDi mobile, BoostMobile LLC (T-Mobile), VirginMobile USA, Inc., TescoMobile Limited (TescoPLC), Cricket Wireless LLC (AT&T Inc.), Lycamobile UK Limited, PosteMobile S.p.A., 1&1 Drillisch AG, Airvoice Wireless LLC, ASDAMobile, Giffgaff Ltd, Kajeet Inc. (Arterra Mobility), Truphone GmbH, Voiceworks B.V., Asahi Net, Inc.

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