Ericsson, Telefónica Lead 5G Slicing and API Shift
As mobile operators face margin pressures and the commoditisation of core connectivity services, a new model is emerging—one that redefines the network as a programmable platform.
Network slicing and the GSMA Open Gateway initiative are at the heart of this transformation, creating the foundations for new revenue streams, higher-value enterprise services and true network agility.
Network slicing: Tailoring infrastructure for enterprise demands
Network slicing enables mobile network operators (MNOs) to run multiple virtualised and isolated networks over a single physical 5G Standalone (SA) infrastructure.
Each network “slice” can be configured with tailored characteristics — including latency, bandwidth and reliability — to support specific use cases.
One prominent example is the collaboration between Ericsson and Sony, which demonstrated network slicing for live media broadcasts, ensuring uninterrupted high-bandwidth transmission.
In industrial environments, low-latency slices can optimise performance for robotics and automation, offering guaranteed service quality where it is mission-critical.
Rogers Communications in Canada recently became one of the first operators to commercialise network slicing, launching the technology in June 2025 to prioritise connectivity for emergency services. Such real-world deployments signal growing operator confidence in monetising 5G capabilities beyond consumer plans.
Market research reflects this momentum. The global network slicing market is forecast to expand rapidly from US$840m in 2025 to more than US$5bn by 2030.
The demand for differentiated, performance-assured enterprise connectivity drives the growth.
The GSMA Open Gateway: Monetising networks through APIs
Running in parallel with slicing, the GSMA Open Gateway initiative is reshaping how network capabilities are accessed and monetised. By exposing key functions via standardised Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), operators enable developers and enterprises to consume network services in much the same way they would consume cloud infrastructure.
Mats Granryd, Director General of GSMA, outlined the significance in his keynote speech at the Open Gateway launch, stating, “By applying the concept of interconnection for operators to the API economy, developers can utilise technology once, for services such as identity, cybersecurity or billing, but with the potential to integrate with every operator worldwide. It is a profound change in the way we design and deliver services.”
As of mid-2025, 73 operator groups — spanning 285 networks and covering 79% of the global mobile subscriber base — have signed onto the Open Gateway framework.
Initially dominated by APIs for fraud detection and identity verification, the ecosystem is now expanding to performance-centric use cases.
One standout area of growth is Quality-on-Demand (QoD) APIs. The APIs enable applications to request elevated network performance dynamically.
QoD APIs now account for 25% of new deployments, a significant increase from under 10% just one year ago, signalling strong demand from sectors such as automotive, media and critical infrastructure.
At MWC 2025, Telefónica and Nokia demonstrated how Open Gateway APIs can support autonomous drone operations with secure, real-time responsiveness.
Network-as-a-Service: Building the future operating model
Together, network slicing and the GSMA Open Gateway are creating a new paradigm: Network-as-a-Service (NaaS).
By combining API exposure with on-demand slice provisioning, operators can offer dynamic network resources that scale according to business needs — not just bandwidth but deterministic performance.
James Crawshaw, Practice Leader at Omdia, noted:
“The GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative aims to enable MNOs to expose their network capabilities to third-party developers using APIs.
"This should accelerate innovation and allow operators to create new revenue opportunities by offering enhanced services to users or enterprise customers.”
Under a NaaS model, telecom networks become more than just infrastructure; they become programmable platforms. It opens the door to transactional business models, subscription-based services and deeper engagement with vertical industries.
From infrastructure to innovation
For telecom operators, programmable networks present a rare opportunity to reposition in the digital value chain. By investing in slicing, API exposure and open standards, they can turn infrastructure into innovation platforms.
With initiatives like Open Gateway and 5G SA deployment accelerating, the path from connectivity to capability has never been more straightforward.
In a market shaped by AI, automation and ubiquitous connectivity, the network’s ability to adapt and differentiate will define its commercial future. The programmable network is no longer theoretical — it is now the competitive edge.
