UAVs: commercial applications and the opportunity for mobile operators
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Advancements in drone capabilities, wider availability of hardware, and affordable equipment pricing mean uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) are moving towards early commercial adoption. The UAV ecosystem broadly expects the market to move to mainstream from 2025.
Mobile network operators have opportunities with strong monetisation prospects. However, few mobile operators have detailed a comprehensive strategy. To be ready in two to three years, they need to act now.
In early 2023, GSMA Intelligence conducted a global survey of 25 UAV ecosystem players on market trends, challenges and opportunities. Leveraging GSMA Intelligence research into mobile operator network investment plans (5G-Advanced and 6G) and drone strategies, this report presents survey insights across areas including revenue opportunities, challenges and timelines for wider adoption, and expected roles and services for telcos. The report also presents several case studies of telecoms operators in the UAV ecosystem.
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