Are 4G small cells set to transform mobile network economics? Our panel of experts debates.

In parallel with the evolution to 4G, a paradigm shift in base station technology is also taking place. Take the lightRadio example where a complete cell tower has somehow been squished up into a 6 cm cube by placing some of the processor into the cloud. In addition, we’re being told that small cells targeted at hot spot areas will be capable of exponentially improving the economics of mobile networks.  But how does it all work? How can the arrival of small cells-macro network component change the game? Is it really time to say a slow goodbye to this power tower world? Are 4G small cells set to transform mobile network economics?

To give answers to these questions Alcatel-Lucent sponsored a panel of experts from BT – Dr. Dave Wisely, Head of Mobile Strategy Research, Informa – Julian Bright, Senior Analyst, Alcatel-Lucent – Valerie Layan, VP Wireless Solutions & Marketing EMEA, and TelecomTV. They addressed these issues in a live panel session through 3 parts (click on each topic to watch the replay):

• The Technology
• The Operator response
• New business models