Wireless Telecommunications Equipment Manufacturing
Companies in this industry produce radio and television broadcast and wireless communications equipment. Major companies include Apple and Cisco (both based in the US); as well as Ericsson (Sweden); Huawei, Oppo, Xiaomi, and ZTE (China); Nokia (Finland); and Samsung (South Korea).
Worldwide, the number of smartphone mobile network subscriptions is forecast to grow about $8 billion by 2028. China, India, and the US are among the highest number of smartphone mobile network subscriptions, according to Statista.
The US wireless telecommunications equipment manufacturing industry includes about 700 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with combined annual revenue of about $25 billion.
The industry is part of the Telecommunications Equipment Manufacturing sector, which is covered further in a separate industry profile.
Competitive Landscape
Demand is driven by evolving networking technology that enables new applications and services. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient operations and bringing new products to market quickly. Large companies enjoy economies of scale in purchasing raw materials, components, and manufacturing equipment. Smaller companies can compete effectively by specializing in niche products or components. The US industry is highly concentrated: the 50 largest companies account for about 90% of revenue.
Competitive Advantages:
Specialization - Smaller companies compete with industry leaders by developing equipment for new or emerging technologies. For example, the proliferation of internet-connected devices (commonly referred to as the internet of things, or IoT) is creating opportunities for startups to focus on new antenna and satellite designs.
Talented Engineers - Developing telecommunications equipment requires a wide array of technical talent, including systems designers, electrical engineers, and software programmers. Companies compete to attract experienced engineers.
Access to Capital - Companies that perform their own manufacturing and testing require large investments in equipment and facilities.
Companies to Watch:
Apple's iPhone is arguably the most influential design in the consumer wireless market.
Huawei is among the leading developers of 5G networking gear.
Samsung vies with Apple for the top spot among smartphone vendors.
Chinese consumer electronics maker Xiaomi is one of the fastest growing smartphone makers in the world.
Products, Operations & Technology
Major revenue sources include the manufacturing of communications systems which account for about 70% of the industry revenue. The company also manufactures
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