The global mobile landscape is bracing for a significant shift as the number of mobile virtual network (MVNOs) subscribers is projected to surge by over 100 million within the next four years.
According to a new study by global tech strategist Juniper Research, the adoption of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) will climb from 333 million in 2026 to 438 million by 2030, driven primarily by the rise of “MVNO-in-a-Box” platforms that allow non-telecom enterprises to launch their own mobile services with ease.
MVNO in a Box is a pre-integrated, ready-to-launch solution that gives businesses all the tools needed to become a mobile operator, without building everything from scratch. It includes core components like customer relationship management (CRM), billing systems, user and SIM management, digital onboarding, eSIM-ready apps, and analytics. This plug-and-play model is fully managed and typically hosted by an MVNE (Mobile Virtual Network Enabler).
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However, findings indicate that emerging MVNOs must clearly differentiate themselves from incumbent service providers by leveraging their existing businesses to deliver distinct, compelling value propositions; identifying rewards and customer loyalty schemes as key tools enabling MVNOs to achieve this and capitalise on future growth.
Juniper Research defines an MVNO as a mobile service provider that leases wholesale capacity from mobile network operators, without owning its own network infrastructure.
An extract from the new report, MVNO in a Box Market 2026-2030, is available as a free download.
Enterprises Must Personalise Mobile Offerings to Win Market Share
New MVNOs must leverage existing internal customer data to develop personalised mobile subscription offerings, including data allowances, which align with their customer segments and demands. This additional personalisation will provide new MVNOs with a competitive advantage over established players, allowing them to quickly acquire a niche in cellular connectivity markets.
Alex Webb, Senior Research Analyst at Juniper Research, commented, “Enterprises must invest in comprehensive analytics platforms which leverage data across their business to identify strategies and campaigns which can effectively convert existing customers into subscribers to their MVNO.”
