Telco-as-a-Service: The technological model that is opening the Colombian mobile market to new operators

Despite the high penetration of mobile internet in Colombia, the participation of Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) in the market remains low. According to the Communications Regulation Commission (CRC), these operators account for only 1.3% of mobile voice traffic, even though there are currently 16 active brands in the country.

To address this gap, JSC Ingenium, a company specializing in telecommunications technology solutions, is promoting the Telco-as-a-Service (TaaS) model in the country. This comprehensive alternative allows new players to offer mobile services under their own brand, without the need to build or manage their own network.

What is Telco-as-a-Service?

Telco-as-a-Service is a disruptive model that provides third parties—such as businesses, cooperatives, white labels, or startups—with all the technological infrastructure required to operate as an MVNO. This includes network infrastructure (Core Network), billing and customer care systems (BSS/OSS), and connections with wholesale operators. Everything is delivered as a cloud service, with technical support and regulatory compliance included.

The TaaS model responds to a real market need: to enable new operators without forcing them to replicate complex infrastructures. Colombia has the coverage, the demand, and the regulatory framework for more brands to participate in the mobile business. What is missing are viable paths to entry.

Colombia’s potential for MVNOs

However, the entry of new operators has been limited by factors such as high initial costs, regulatory complexity, and the need for specialized technical support. JSC Ingenium‘s proposal—already implemented in over 25 countries and used by more than 150 operators—seeks to facilitate the entry of new brands focused on market niches, specific territories, or innovative business models, such as community connectivity, fintech, or retail.

In conclusion, the TaaS model, being a modular and scalable solution, allows new players to focus on the customer experience and the differentiation of their services. The growth of this system would be of significant benefit to MVNOs in markets such as Colombia and numerous others worldwide.