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Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Size

ID: MRFR//0462-HCR | 110 Pages | Author: Aarti Dhapte| November 2024

The Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) market is experiencing dynamic shifts driven by changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the evolving telecommunications landscape. MVNOs operate by leasing network infrastructure from traditional Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and providing their own branded services to end-users. The market dynamics of MVNOs are shaped by several key factors.


One of the primary drivers influencing the MVNO market dynamics is the increasing demand for flexible and cost-effective mobile services. MVNOs cater to niche markets, offering specialized plans, pricing structures, and services that resonate with specific consumer segments. This flexibility allows consumers to choose plans that align with their needs, contributing to the appeal and growth of MVNOs in the telecommunications sector.


The competitive landscape of the MVNO market is characterized by a mix of established players, niche providers, and new entrants. Established MVNOs often focus on specific demographics or regions, while newer entrants may target untapped niches or introduce innovative service models. The diversity within the market fosters competition, prompting MVNOs to differentiate themselves through unique offerings, pricing strategies, and value-added services.


Technological advancements also play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the MVNO market. The transition to 5G technology and the ongoing development of mobile infrastructure impact the services MVNOs can offer. As MNOs invest in and deploy advanced network technologies, MVNOs seek to leverage these capabilities to provide enhanced connectivity and data services to their customers.


The regulatory landscape is another influential factor shaping the MVNO market dynamics. Regulatory bodies may impose certain conditions or restrictions on the operations of MVNOs to ensure fair competition and consumer protection. Changes in regulations, spectrum allocation, or licensing agreements can impact the entry of new MVNOs and influence the strategies of existing players within the market.


Market dynamics are further influenced by the strategic partnerships and collaborations formed by MVNOs. Many MVNOs enter into agreements with MNOs to access their network infrastructure, enabling them to offer competitive services without the need for extensive network investments. Additionally, collaborations with other service providers, device manufacturers, or content providers contribute to the diversification of MVNO offerings and enhance their value proposition.


Consumer behavior and expectations also contribute to the evolving dynamics of the MVNO market. As consumers prioritize flexibility, affordability, and unique service offerings, MVNOs tailor their strategies to meet these demands. The rise of eSIM technology, which allows users to switch between mobile carriers seamlessly, adds another layer to the evolving landscape, providing consumers with greater freedom to choose MVNO services.

Covered Aspects:

Report Attribute/Metric Details
Market Size Value In 2022 USD 76.7 Billion
Market Size Value In 2023 USD 85.4 Billion
Growth Rate 8.51% (2023-2030)

Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Overview


Mobile virtual network operator Market Size was valued at USD 76.7 Billion in 2022. The Mobile virtual network operator market is projected to grow from USD 85.4 Billion in 2023 to USD 151.3 Billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.51% during the forecast period (2024 - 2030). Competitive pricing, flexible service plans, brand recognition, technological advancements, and regulatory changes drive market for MVNOs.


Figure 1: Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Size, 2023-2030 (USD Billion)


Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market


Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Trends


Competitive Pricing from Retail network operators boost market growth


Mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) are companies that provide mobile services to customers by leasing network infrastructure from other mobile network operators (MNOs). In recent years, the market for MVNOs has been driven by the increasing demand for competitive pricing from retail network operators.


Retail network operators, such as supermarkets, department stores, and electronics retailers, have started to offer mobile services to their customers by partnering with MVNOs. These partnerships allow retail network operators to offer mobile services under their own brand name, without the need to invest in expensive network infrastructure.


One of the key advantages of MVNOs for retail network operators is the ability to offer competitive pricing. MVNOs can negotiate favorable wholesale rates from MNOs, which allows them to offer lower prices to customers than traditional MNOs. This competitive pricing has proven to be a major selling point for retail network operators, as customers are increasingly looking for ways to save money on their mobile bills.


In addition to competitive pricing, MVNOs also offer flexibility and customization. Retail network operators can work with MVNOs to create mobile plans that are tailored to their customer base, offering unique features and benefits that are not available from traditional MNOs. This customization allows retail network operators to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace and attract new customers.


Overall, the market for MVNOs is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by the demand for competitive pricing and flexible mobile plans. As retail network operators continue to expand their mobile offerings, MVNOs are likely to play an increasingly important role in the mobile industry.


Figure 2: Penetration Rate of MVNOs by Region


Penetration Rate of MVNOs by Region


Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


Mobile Virtual Network Operator Market Segment Insight


Mobile Virtual Network Operator by Product Type Insights


Based on product type, the mobile virtual network operator market segmentation includes business, discount, M2M, media, migrants, retail, roaming, and telecommunications. The discount segment dominated the market with a share of 18.3% in 2022 and is also anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 10.02% through the forecast period. The increasing deployment of cellular connectivity in devices ranging from automobiles to vending machines is likely to lead to significant development in the M2M segment for the MVNO market. Its expansion is attributed to the quick adoption of digitization, increased customer engagement, and growing demand for MVNO solutions among small businesses or general users looking for reasonably priced mobile virtual network operators that offer robust and advanced networks to speed up processing and enhance operational models. It increases the size of the MVNO market ly.


This is attributed to factors including quick digitization, growing consumer interaction, a surge in the demand for MVNO solutions among small and mid-sized businesses, and falling telecom service costs as a result of increased industry competition.


Figure 3: Mobile virtual network operator Market, by Product Type, 2022 & 2030 (USD Billion)


Mobile virtual network operator Market, by Product Type, 2022 & 2030


Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


On the other side, the M2M segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.95% through the forecast period. Due to the increasing acceptance of cell availability in equipment ranging from automobiles to vending machines, the industry is expected to experience enormous growth in the M2M sector. The main drivers of the expansion of MVNOs in the M2M market include specialized advancements in the 3G M2M markets, an increase in mobile network coverage, and efforts by MNOs to broaden their service offerings. As would be expected to spur interest in the deployment of mobile network elements by sending in M2M apps during the anticipated term, there has been a significant increase in the number of MNOs collaborating with M2M application service providers.


February 2023: With the impending introduction of four new mobile virtual network operator brands, Plintron, the biggest provider of MVNA/E services, is increasing its footprint in Colombia. The entire solution consists of a variety of integration choices, branded SIM cards, a technology platform, adherence to Colombian laws, over 200 adaptable APIs for system integration with the brand, top-up and payment gateway interfaces, and go-to-market consultancy.


February 2023: Amdocs, a top supplier of software and services to media and communications firms, today revealed that Melon Digital, a brand-new, South African-based mobile virtual network enabler, has chosen its Digital Brands Suite as a Service to offer customer support and monetization capabilities in a SaaS-based solution powered by Amazon Web Services.  


Mobile virtual network operator by Operational Models Insights


Based on the operational model type, the mobile virtual network operator market segmentation includes full MVNO, reseller MVNO, and service operator MVNO. The full MVNO category dominates this market with a share of 45.34% in 2022 and is also estimated to propel the market at a CAGR of 9.05% through the forecast period. Additionally, customers can call abroad at much-reduced rates when a full MVNO network architecture is implemented because it requires less upfront capital and offers total call control. The development of MVNOs is the result of MNOs' strategic decisions and regulatory actions to remove entry barriers and eventually promote competition.


On the other hand, the reseller MVNO segment is also projected to boost market growth in the future with a CAGR of 8.8% from 2023 to 2030. A reseller does business under their own or a joint brand with the MNO. It is in charge of marketing, sales, and distribution expenses. Additionally, it splits the profits with the MNO. Alternatively, the infrastructure for the radio spectrum is not owned by the service provider either. It still has platforms for customer service and billing, though. Yet, MNOs are working with MVNOs and focusing on particular markets to diversify their operations and client base.


MVNOs are concentrating on providing unique services to avoid being in direct competition with MNOs. They want to take advantage of roaming service opportunities by offering particular services to visitors and young people.  


Mobile virtual network operator End-User Insights


Based on end-user type, the mobile virtual network operator market is segmented into consumer and enterprise segments. The consumer segment dominated this market with a share of 60.4% in 2022 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 10% during the forecast period. Internet browsing and video streaming are two examples of data applications that are growing thanks to faster networks and the use of more complex hardware. The adoption of MVNO in this market is boosted by the expanding use of mobile devices and rising demand for high-speed mobile broadband. Also, one of the key drivers in the communications sector is technology advancement, and mobile services are developing for both the B2B and consumer industries. Due to improved deploy ability, improved sales capabilities, and a growing customer base, businesses in the telecom industry favor individual and home clients.


Along with enhancing customer benefits, managing linked life, personal information, and growing online company activities, it is anticipated that these activities will provide crucial learning experiences to important participants searching for mobile virtual network operators. The increased productivity of the corporation is facilitated by other organizations that interface with a wide range of devices.


Furthermore, this is attributed to the expanding usage of mobile devices and the growing number of mobile network subscribers. Internet browsing and video streaming are two examples of data-intensive apps that are being used more and more as mobile device penetration increases.


Mobile virtual network operator Regional Insights


By region, this market has been segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the rest of the world. Among these regions, Europe dominated the market with a share of 38.9% in 2022 and is also estimated grow at a CAGR of 7.76% through the forecast period. The favorable regulatory environment, which is anticipated to be key in the development of the MVNO, might be blamed for the increase. During the projected period, nations like the U.K., Germany, and the Netherlands are probably going to have a beneficial impact on regional growth. Furthermore, the expansion of the regional market is supported by the rising use of integrated services like voice-over-Internet Protocol.


However, the Asia-Pacific region is also anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR of 10.9% through the forecast period. Developing economies in the region such as India, Vietnam, Burma, and China are working to improve and expand their telecommunications infrastructure. Additionally, it is widely acknowledged that the Asia Pacific region dominates the operator market due to its involvement in telephony, cell phones, and other products and services that use virtual networks. By developing networks and providing less of a market for resale in India, Jio Network, an Indian company, has changed technology.  


Figure 4: Mobile virtual network operator Market, by Region Type, 2022 & 2030 (USD Billion)


Mobile virtual network operator Market, by Region Type, 2022 & 2030


Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review


The market size for mobile virtual network services in Asia-Pacific nations like China and Japan is growing due to improved communication, competitive pricing, and a move from office procedures to work-from-home procedures.


Mobile Virtual Network Operator Key Market Players & Competitive Insights


Virgin Mobile, Tracfone Wireless, Inc., RedPocket Mobile, AirVoice Wireless, FreedomPop, Freenet AG, KDDI Mobile, Polkomtel Plus, Tesco Mobile Ltd., Kajeet, Inc., and others are significant market participants in the mobile virtual network operators industry. Due to the increasing demand for distinct products for numerous applications, this market can be positioned with a sustainable competitive advantage through innovation.


To satisfy customer demand, these market leaders are introducing cutting-edge items. To increase their consumer base and boost their market position, international companies are expanding into new markets in developing nations.  


Key Companies in the Mobile virtual network operator market includes




  • Virgin Mobile




  • Tracfone Wireless Inc.




  • RedPocket Mobile




  • AirVoice Wireless




  • FreedomPop




  • Freenet AG




  • KDDI Mobile




  • Polkomtel Plus




  • Tesco Mobile Ltd




  • Kajeet Inc Schneider Electric SE




  • Axian




  • Amdocs




  • Ericsson




  • AireSpring




  • Piltron




Mobile virtual network operator Industry Developments



In March 2023, KDDI and Rakuten Mobile joined hands to establish a new MVNO service targeting businesses. The service named KDDI Rakuten Mobile Business was anticipated to cater for mobile phone plans of any size of business.


In February 2023, KDDI and NTT Docomo formed an alliance in order to start a novel MVNO facility for scholars. Named as KDDI Docomo Student, the facility was planned to provide mobile phone schemes for students at cooperating universities.


In January 2023, KDDI together with China Mobile Japan came up with a new MVNO service in Japan. It was launched under the name KDDI China Mobile Japan to offer Chinese tourists visiting Japan with mobile phone plans.


Reach Mobile revealed in June 2022 that it has extended its strategic turnkey Wholesale-as-a-Service (WaaS) arrangement with T-Mobile, America’s number one 5G leader with the largest, fastest, most reliable national wide 5G network, such that the companies would use ReachNEXT which is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform that fast-tracks and simplifies how businesses roll out network-based services. T-Mobile wholesale customers can utilize ReachNEXT, an all-in-one solution for launching and running use cases like MVNO, Fixed Wireless Access, Failover Internet and IOT – all this with unmatched ease and speed – possibly reaching millions of homes.


Additionally, in August 2022 Verizon announced Fios can now be available for college students starting from $20 per month with AutoPay as well as specific 5G mobile plans. There should be no question about reliable and affordable home internet even as colleges keep giving students virtual options for lectures -and some admit to working on term papers until the wee hours of the morning.


In September 2022, the first solution that protects every data packets sent from mobile devices was announced by Cloudflare Inc. It is possible for organizations to easily integrate their devices with Cloudflare’s Zero Trust platform and securely connect employee devices to Cloudflare’s global network. In addition, businesses can stop their networks and employees regardless of location through Zero Trust SIM.


In July 2022, ORANGE and MASMOVIL have agreed upon a merger in Spain. The union of ORANGE and MASMOVIL creates one bigger operational company that enables investment in 5G as well as Fiber throughout Spain, which benefits customers.



Mobile virtual network operator Market Segmentation


Mobile virtual network operator Product Outlook




  • Business




  • Discount




  • M2M




  • Media




  • Migrant




  • Retail




  • Telecom




  • Roaming




Mobile virtual network operator Operational Model Outlook




  • Full MVNO




  • Reseller MVNO




  • Service Operator MVNO




Mobile virtual network operator End-User Outlook




  • Consumer




  • Enterprise




Mobile virtual network operator Regional Outlook



  • North America


    • US

    • Canada





  • Europe


    • Germany

    • France

    • UK

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Rest of Europe






  • Asia-Pacific




    • China




    • Japan




    • India




    • Australia




    • South Korea




    • Australia




    • Rest of Asia-Pacific






  • Rest of the World




    • Middle East




    • Africa




    • Latin America





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