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The wireless market is an interesting one to watch. We’ve all come to rely on the technology and the advancements in this space continue to create new opportunities to stay connected, drive revenue and even achieve a better work-life balance. And for mobile virtual network operators, the industry has no slowdown in sight.

Overall, significant changes have emerged over the last few years and this evolution isn’t expected to stop. Providers have faced new opportunities and challenges and new entries are still expected to pop up from unexpected players. MVNOs in recent years have faced unprecedented competition from Over-the-Top (OTT) players, Google (News - Alert) and even an evolving ecosystem such as data bearer and voice services available at relatively cheap prices.

Capacity gains are also possible through Long Term Evolution standards to support 4G technology. True end-to-end IP connectivity and VoLTE (voice over LTE (News - Alert)) are shaking up the market. Business models and industry participants are changing thanks to LTE and operational support systems are changing to improve quality of services and to introduce the new user experience to try and secure the competitive advantage.

The adoption of wearables is also changing the game, as well as the adoption of the cloud, third-party services and the development of new APIs that allow consumers to do things with a smartphone they have never been able to do before. Transformational technologies and best practices will set the stage for the future of wireless and embedded M2M solutions. Mobility will continue to evolve, as will the apps we will come to depend on to manage work and life.

Aside from wearables, there are clear mobile trends that are setting the pace for the next five years in mobile usage. The Internet of Things is bringing everything together; the world is being connected through power platforms like Facebook (News - Alert); the digital landscape is being consumed by the application of everything; mobile payments are becoming a must; and teams are emerging to effectively compete with the giants, creating more opportunities for the end user.

As a whole, all of these things will make the market more competitive, which means more innovation, better quality of service, lower pricing and greater options. At the same time, it can also make it confusing for the end user seeking the best solution to a problem. Fortunately, information will be available to guide the process and allow for niche providers to blossom. In the process, we’ll find new ways to apply wireless technology. Those mobile operators able to quickly jump on board will be able to enjoy a profitable ride.