As the new decade begins, it is interesting to think about what is to come. In an industry as fast-paced as telecoms and technology, things evolve and change quickly—so here’s 10 telecoms trends that we think 2020 will bring.
1. Move to cloud based telephony
‘Cloud’ is becoming a big word in all parts of technology sector, with telecoms being no exception. Cloud phone systems (or VoIP/Hosted VoIP) are a becoming an increasingly large part of the communications market—fast outpacing that of the traditional PBX.
Cloud telephone systems help businesses dramatically reduce their costs, by moving your originally on-premise system to the cloud. It reduces maintenance costs, and installation fees and more. In fact, you can get a cloud phone system for just £10/mo.
2. More uses of the internet of things
The internet of things is creating a more connected cloud environment for businesses around the world. With GPS tracking, black boxes, remote maintenance and smart metering, the IoT is a vital part of modern day life.
In 2020, we expect to see even more IoT enabled devices on the market, with increased reliance on these connected machines. In fact, it is estimated that there ill be 75 Billion IoT-enabled devices by 2025.
3. Increase in fibre broadband
Fibre broadband is a hot topic at the moment. With Openreach and other private broadband providers striving to roll out their fibre to the premises (FTTP) network by 2025—in time for the ISDN switch off.
Fibre to the premises enables faster, more reliable internet connectivity for businesses across the UK, proving a full-fibre link between their premises and the internet. Full fibre can achieve speeds up to 300Mbps download—which is pretty fast.
4. WiFi phones
For a long time, WiFi phones have been considered an unachievable feat, with many businesses opting for a DECT solution instead. However, using a WiFi connection to make and receive important phone calls is now a reality, and is more reliable than most people realise.
Stronger WiFi routers, with better broadband connections enable WiFi VoIP phones, meaning that there is no need to install lots of fixed telephone sockets around the room—you just plug them in and away you go.
5. Less fixed-line communications
For a long time, fixed line communications have been the backbone of the telecoms industry. But we predict that in 2020, and in the coming decade, there will be a significant decrease in fixed-line communications. Instead, businesses will choose to you VoIP phone systems, with soft phones and mobile apps.
This trend is nothing new—as I mentioned in my first trend, business telephone systems are becoming more and more cloud based as the technology evolves. It is these cloud based systems that will eventually seek to replace fixed-line communications.
6. Multiple PBX businesses pulling out of the market
The old ‘PBX’ is a thing of the past. Traditionally, businesses would have a box on the wall that controls their telephone calls, and voicemail and all the other do-dads that come with a phone system—but no more is that the case.
We expect to see multiple telecom companies and manufactures pulling their PBX support and supply due to a dwindling demand and a dramatic change in the industry.
7. Better mobile handsets
Every year, there is a bombardment of brand new top-end mobile handsets (also known as flagships). These include the latest iPhones, Samsungs, OnePlus’ and more. Smartphones are more advanced now than they have ever been, and that is great news for businesses.
In 2020, we expect their to be more new phones, trying more adventurous techniques and technologies in an attempt to stand out of the over-saturated market. For example: foldable’s, multiple cameras and more. This is good for businesses as it allows them a wide choice of mobiles, so that they can pick the one that suits their needs the best.
8. Increase in unlimited data tariffs
In 2019, we saw some of the UK’s first unlimited data tariffs hit the mainstream. Suppliers such as Vodafone and O2 started to provide these tariffs to consumers. But it’s not just consumers. These unlimited data tariffs are also available for businesses.
We can supply your business with unlimited data tariffs if required. These are ideal for remote workers, mobile sales reps, area managers, engineers and more. They’re a great asset for a businesses as they allow you to rest easy and not have to worry about data allowances and usage.
9. More integrated communications
With a PBX telephone system, it is hard to integrate with mobiles and tablets and smart devices. This is because they are not specifically designed for the needs of modern day businesses. However, the move to cloud-based VoIP telephone systems means that your businesses communications are more integrated than ever.
In fact, our VoIP phone system comes with a mobile, tablet and desktop app. This enables seamless integration with mobile devices. Users can make and receive calls from their mobile as though they were sat at their desk.
10. Increase in VoIP phone systems
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, VoIP phone systems are the way forward. They’re cheaper, more reliable, easier and have more features than traditional telephone systems. These are just a few of the reasons why we expect to see a massive increase in business VoIP in 2020.
This trend has been growing and growing over the past few years, with 70% of business owners planning to move to VoIP in the coming years. The benefits are clear, and we think that 2020 is going to be the year for VoIP.
