[{"_id":"project-settings","settings":{"translateMetaTags":true,"translateAriaLabels":true,"translateTitle":true,"showWidget":true,"isFeedbackEnabled":false,"fv":1,"customWidget":{"theme":"dark","font":"rgb(255, 255, 255)","header":"rgb(0, 0, 0)","background":"rgba(0, 0, 0,0.8)","position":"right","positionVertical":"bottom","border":"","borderRequired":false,"widgetCompact":true,"isWidgetPositionRelative":false},"widgetLanguages":[{"code":"es-LA","name":"Español (América Latina)"},{"code":"fr-CA","name":"Français (Canada)"}],"activeLanguages":{"fr-CA":"Français (Canada)","es-LA":"Español (América Latina)","de":"Deutsch","en":"English"},"enabledLanguages":["de","en","es-LA","fr-CA"],"debugInfo":false,"displayBranding":true,"displayBrandingName":true,"localizeImages":false,"localizeUrls":false,"localizeImagesLimit":false,"localizeUrlsLimit":true,"localizeAudio":false,"localizeAudioLimit":false,"localizeDates":false,"disabledPages":[],"regexPhrases":[],"allowComplexCssSelectors":false,"blockedClasses":false,"blockedIds":false,"phraseDetection":true,"customDomainSettings":[],"seoSetting":[],"translateSource":false,"overage":false,"detectPhraseFromAllLanguage":false,"googleAnalytics":false,"mixpanel":false,"heap":false,"disableDateLocalization":false,"ignoreCurrencyInTranslation":false,"blockedComplexSelectors":[]},"version":4093},{"_id":"en","source":"en","pluralFn":"return n != 1 ? 1 : 0;","pluralForm":2,"dictionary":{},"version":4093},{"_id":"outdated","outdated":{"#Close":1,"#by <span ljsid-1=\"\">Ash Kreider</span> on Jan. <span ljsid-3=\"\">17</span>, <span ljsid-5=\"\">2024</span> in <a ljsid-7=\"\"> Tendances sans fil </a>":1,"#Call  1.866.476.3874  via 3CX":1,"#pour commencer.":1,"#Vous avez désactivé certains cookies, ce qui signifie que notre formulaire de démonstration n'est pas disponible pour vous. Veuillez envoyer un e-mail à sales@iqmetrix.com ou appelez-nous au":1,"#source":1,"#Sr. Manager, PR":1,"#, iQmetrix is a privately-held software as a service (SaaS) company with offices in Canada, the U.S. and Australia.":1,"#locations.":1,"#and follow us":1,"#news.samsung.com/us":1,"#. For the latest Samsung news, please visit":1,"#-degree VR video, customer support and more. Samsung is a pioneering leader in smartphones and HDTVs in the U.S. and one of America’s fastest growing home appliance brands. To discover more about Samsung, please visit":1,"#Headquartered in Ridgefield Park, N.J., Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA), is a recognized innovative leader in consumer electronics, mobile devices and enterprise solutions. A wholly owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., SEA is pushing beyond the limits of today’s technology and providing consumers and organizations with a portfolio of groundbreaking products in appliances, home entertainment, Internet of Things, mobile computing, smartphones, virtual reality, wireless infrastructure and wearables, in addition to offering leading content and services related to mobile payments,":1,"#About Samsung Electronics America, Inc.":1,"#Data Visualization":1,"#Notifications (F8)":1,"#How Wireless Retailers Can Make Customers Feel Heard":1,"#Founded in":1,"#Aboulhosn said, <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">“</span>So far, eSIM hasn’t created the increased subscriber churn for carriers they were afraid of, because it’s still too inconvenient to switch carriers, even with eSIM. You still have to get a brand-new plan, have credit checks, share customer information, move everything over, all the things that are challenging to set up in the first instance. Most people would rather stick with their carrier and negotiate a new rate plan or discount.”":1,"#Since the <span ljsid-1=\"\">2022</span> iPhone launch, carriers around the world have started to follow US carrier’s lead or be left behind, given that the device manufacturers are determined to push the eSIM agenda. Fortunately for the carriers, the fears they had over eSIM haven’t come to pass.":1,"#Aboulhosn told iQmetrix, <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">“</span>We are inevitably moving towards eSIM because both Apple and Google are obsessed with the customer experience, and they want to ensure any transfer between devices is seamless. The OEMs also want the hardware real estate that is freed up by not having a traditional SIM card taking up space.”":1,"#eSIM has been around for over a decade, as Apple first trialed the technology in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2014</span>, but carriers have been reluctant to adopt it until recently. This was largely due to fears over increased subscriber churn rates in a sector with already-high attrition rates, if it was as easy to switch carriers via eSIM as expected. In fact, despite more widespread adoption in Europe and Asia, in the U.S., AT&amp;T, Verizon, T-Mobile and nearly all network operators support eSIM as of the iPhone <span ljsid-3=\"\">14</span> eSIM-only device launch in September <span ljsid-5=\"\">2022</span>.":1,"#SummitX 2024: The eSIM Impact on Telecom Retailers and Carriers—a…":1,"#At SummitX, eSIM expert Emir Aboulhosn, CEO of NetLync, shared the opportunity and challenges of eSIM facing both wireless retailers and telecom carriers.…":1,"#Where are we now with eSIM adoption?":1,"#Never miss news and insights on cutting-edge wireless retail trends. Sign up for The Overview monthly newsletter today.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">“</span>Carriers need to accelerate their digital transformation to keep up with this changing technology,” Aboulhosn said. <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>They also need to adopt a consumer-first mindset, rather than be concerned about risk factors. Those who give their customers the best experience will win here.”":1,"#Advice for the telecom carrier":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Regulatory changes:</strong> Again, eSIM adoption could be affected by government policy, which is an unknown risk factor at this time.":1,"#Here we summarize both the live presentation and iQmetrix’s post-event interview with Aboulhosn, placing the eSIM impact into a SWOT analysis from the perspective of both wireless retailers and carriers.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Rising competition from digital-only providers:</strong> Carriers do face increased competition from savvy MVNOs such as Mint Mobile, who are capturing market share and don’t have a physical retail presence. The adoption of eSIM and the cost savings involved only aids smaller players in gaining easy footholds in the market, and traditional carriers will have to adapt and innovate to stay competitive.":1,"#The main threat that most carriers have been concerned about, as mentioned in the introduction above, is the risk of increased churn — and so far that hasn’t come to pass. Instead, the key threats are:":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Enhanced data insights for personalization:</strong> eSIM’s digital purchasing pathways offer additional opportunities for capturing customer data, allowing the carriers to tailor marketing and promotions in a personalized way.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Expansion into new markets with digital-only services:</strong> Carriers can jump on the digital-only opportunities, and capitalize on the segment that the retailers stand to lose as some consumers choose a purely online purchase and activation experience. For those customers, carriers can offer a <span ljsid-2=\"\">100</span>% digital path with ship-to-home delivery of the device and DIY online activation.":1,"#Dependency on device compatibility: Carriers also have to rely on device brands to gradually upgrade their new models to eSIM technology. However, with Apple and Google (Android) pushing hard for eSIM, this should be an easy barrier to overcome.":1,"#Customer education required: With eSIM awareness still relatively low, it will be a few years before adoption is widespread, and it will be incumbent on both carriers and device brands to educate consumers on its benefits.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Need for system upgrades:</strong> Like with any new technology, there can be initial technological teething problems. Carriers must adapt their systems and infrastructure to support eSIM technology, if they haven’t already done so.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Cost efficiency/better use of device real estate (no physical SIMs):</strong> Since the eSIM takes up much less space than physical SIM cards, devices can be improved in other ways, with batteries offering longer life, for example. This is an advantage to carriers who can offer superior devices, as well as retailers.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Improved customer convenience and onboarding:</strong> With the eSIM activation and data transfer process no longer taking up time in the store, it gives the customer a better experience, as mentioned above. But it also gives the customer less time to both consider changing their carrier, or to consider changing their device to a rival option. This is an advantage for both telecom carriers and the OEMs. Faster service equates to happy customers, who are thus <em ljsid-2=\"\">less</em> likely to churn, not more likely, Aboulhosn explained. <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">“</span>If the customer has a seamless experience, they’re not thinking about changing their wireless carrier.”":1,"#An eSIM SWOT analysis: the carrier perspective":1,"#Aboulhosn shared a brief history of eSIM and a primer on the technology, and then offered a deep dive on the opportunities and challenges of eSIM that face wireless retailers and telecom carriers today.":1,"#<span ljsid-0=\"\">“</span>It’s up to the retailer how they adapt to eSIM technology,” Aboulhosn said. <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>Are you going to tell yourself it’s a threat, or that it’s an opportunity? Those who see it as an opportunity will adapt in ways they need to, find ways to innovate, and capitalize on it. Those who only see it as a threat will be left behind.”":1,"#Advice for the wireless retailer":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Potential regulation changes:</strong> Like any technology, eSIM is subject to regulation, and local regulatory changes affect its use. Policies that support the use of eSIM technology will encourage more carriers and businesses to invest in this technology, but some local regulators could also go the other way.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Potential reduced store traffic:</strong> The biggest threat eSIM poses to the wireless retailer — and the one keeping retailers up at night — is that the customer could simply order their phone and activate it <span ljsid-2=\"\">100</span>% online, bypassing the store entirely. Some might choose to never set foot in their local wireless store again. <span ljsid-4=\"\"></span><span ljsid-6=\"\">“</span>When retailers look at eSIM at first glance, it seems like it could be a threat — that customers will go entirely digital,” Aboulhosn said. <span ljsid-8=\"\"></span><span ljsid-10=\"\">“</span>But it’s not always easy to get a phone sent through the mail without a signature, and that doesn’t work for people who aren’t always home. So your retail strategy needs to cover all the bases, and that’s where this turns into an opportunity (see above).”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Cost savings:</strong> With potentially more focus on digital and hybrid retail strategies, along with reduced processing times in-store, there is a strong potential for cost savings when it comes to workforce management. When each customer’s journey doesn’t take an hour or more, wait times are decreased and staffing can be reduced or optimized.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Personalized in-store experiences:</strong> The improved process and wait times will hugely help with customer personalization and increased loyalty, Aboulhosn said. <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>We can reinforce those relationships, making it a more qualitative versus a quantitative experience.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">New digital customer segments and retail approaches</strong>: eSIM offers retailers a way to get in front of different customers with fresh retail strategies, Aboulhosn asserted. <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>What if I was a local retailer, and instead of the customer coming in to browse devices, they make an online order that I can fulfill and activate in-store in a few minutes? Or, I could even offer a service to deliver to their nearby home or office, and activate the phone for them on the spot. All of a sudden, I’ve taken my footprint outside of the store and the customer is wowed by an incredible experience. That’s how you build customer loyalty. And people will pay for that convenience.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Need for store associate training and education</strong>: <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>Store associates shouldn’t need a lot of training, as these are simple processes,” Aboulhosn said, <span ljsid-6=\"\"></span><span ljsid-8=\"\">“</span>but it can be surprising how many staff aren’t aware of the newer technologies.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Lack of customer awareness:</strong> Partly due to carriers’ reticence and those long buying cycles, awareness of eSIM is still relatively low. Many customers today have a phone with a SIM card, and will only buy a temporary eSIM when travelling abroad, to avoid roaming charges for data. iPhone <span ljsid-2=\"\">14</span> and newer users the US are using eSIM in daily cellphone use. However, Aboulhosn is confident this will change and eSIM-only phones will become the norm in the next few years.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Device upgrades needed:</strong> For customers to use eSIM, aside from iPhone users since iPhone XS who already have an eSIM enabled phone, most will have to upgrade to newer Android devices . The device upgrade cycle currently averages nearly three years, so it could take a bit more time for adoption to be widespread.":1,"#One of the best-received breakout sessions at SummitX <span ljsid-1=\"\">2024</span> was that of eSIM expert Emir Aboulhosn, CEO of NetLync, whose presentation was <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">“</span>Revolutionizing Consumer Experiences in Retail with eSIM.”":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Sustainability:</strong> Many retailers have goals to make an impact in terms of improving sustainability, and eSIM is an eco-friendly product that helps them towards those initiatives.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Flexible service option:</strong> Wireless retailers are highly accustomed to offering a wide range of products, rate plans, and technologies. eSIM-only and eSIM-enabled devices should be easy options for the retailer to add to its arsenal of product offerings and give consumers a wider choice. Added to that, the faster in-store service opens up time for the sales associate to engage with the customer, educate them on the benefits of eSIM, and potentially upsell with add-on services and accessories. <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>All of which is easier to do because the sales rep isn’t faced with a wall due to customer frustration,” Aboulhosn added.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Improved customer experience:</strong> Wireless retailers are already (or should be) focused on elevating and streamlining the customer experience, and eSIM is one more way that retailers can build this muscle. Aboulhosn said, <span ljsid-2=\"\"></span><span ljsid-4=\"\">“</span>The established model is to go to the store, stand in line, upgrade the device, maybe change rate plan, get the phone activated, and so on. It’s a several-hour process. With eSIM, the entire process is much faster.”":1,"#The SWOT analysis examines:":1,"#An eSIM SWOT analysis: the wireless retailer perspective":1,"#This has meant that carriers and retailers alike have recently become much more open to the <strong ljsid-1=\"\">opportunities</strong> that eSIM offers and the <strong ljsid-3=\"\">strengths</strong> the technology carries that they can leverage, while also adapting to <strong ljsid-5=\"\">weaknesses</strong> and <strong ljsid-7=\"\">threats </strong>as they arise.":1,"#Solutions <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> Go plans to roll out the integration with iQmetrix to wireless retailers in the U.S. in early <span ljsid-3=\"\">2025</span>.":1,"#Jason Raymer, Senior Vice President of Revenue and Client Experience at iQmetrix, said, <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">“</span>Adding Solutions <span ljsid-5=\"\">2</span> Go to our incredible ecosystem of integrated partner vendors further strengthens our offering to iQmetrix’s Canadian clients. With S<span ljsid-7=\"\">2</span>G’s outstanding selection of mobile and gaming accessories plugged right into our RQ point of sale, our clients can offer their customers exactly the product they want in the moment — creating that great experience we’re all looking for.”":1,"#Pierre-Marc Lariviere, Vice-President of Sales, Mobility at S<span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span>G, added, <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">“</span>Partnering with iQmetrix is a game changer for servicing our Canadian network. This collaboration enables us to offer an unparalleled range of products and enhancing the retail experience for our customers. By leveraging iQmetrix’s VMI and Dropship services, we can provide our clients with the best possible solutions to manage their business.”":1,"#Founded in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2004</span>, Solutions <span ljsid-3=\"\">2</span> GO is a progressive organization infused with an entrepreneurial spirit. As global distributor of video game, mobility, and consumer electronic products, the scope of its operations reach <span ljsid-5=\"\">19</span> countries in North, Central and South America, and its partnerships further extend its reach to Europe, Africa, Australia and Asia.":1,"#Justin Drage, Vice President of Partnerships at S<span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span>G, said, <span ljsid-3=\"\"></span><span ljsid-5=\"\">“</span>Our partnership with iQmetrix helps retailers grow sales by offering our expansive product assortment of core wireless products and exciting mobile gaming products. We’re excited to offer our best-in-class VMI services — which help retailers streamline their product procurement and maximize efficiency to reduce costs while leaving the retailer in control of all key strategic decisions.”":1,"#This partnership will enable iQmetrix clients to access a vast catalogue of wireless and mobile gaming products from world-class manufacturers, directly from their RQ Point of Sale.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Vancouver, BC, Canada<strong ljsid-0-1=\"\">—January <span ljsid-0-1-1=\"\">8</span></strong>, <span ljsid-0-3=\"\">2025</span>—</strong>iQmetrix is thrilled to announce that it has launched an integrated partnership with Solutions <span ljsid-2=\"\">2</span> Go (S<span ljsid-4=\"\">2</span>G), a global distributor with locations across North and South America, to bring Vendor-Managed Inventory (VMI) and Dropship services to telecom retailers in Canada.":1,"#by <span ljsid-1=\"\">Joannah Connolly</span> on Jan. <span ljsid-3=\"\">8</span>, <span ljsid-5=\"\">2025</span>":1,"#Solutions 2 GO Partners with iQmetrix to Offer Accessories via VMI…":1,"#Vancouver, BC, Canada—January 8, 2025—Global distributor Solutions 2 Go offers a full line of mobile and gaming accessories, now seamlessly available…":1,"#marketspan@s<span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span>ginternational.com":1,"#MarketSpan by Solutions <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> GO":1,"#About Solutions <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> GO":1,"#For <span ljsid-1=\"\">26</span> years, we’ve been passionate about helping the leading brands in telecom to grow by providing best-in-class software, services, and expertise that enables them to adapt and thrive. Our solutions powered $<span ljsid-3=\"\">17</span>BN in sales last year, handling more than <span ljsid-5=\"\">53</span> million invoices and more than <span ljsid-7=\"\">20</span> million activations, and are used by hundreds of thousands of telecom retail professionals across almost <span ljsid-9=\"\">800</span> clients. iQmetrix is a privately held software-as-a-service (SaaS) company with employees in Canada, the U.S., India, and Europe. For more information, please visit <a ljsid-11=\"\"><strong ljsid-11-0=\"\">www.iqmetrix.com</strong></a>.":1,"#To find out more about Solutions <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> Go, go to their <u ljsid-3=\"\"><a ljsid-3-0=\"\">iQmetrix partner page</a></u>.":1,"#__PRESENT":1,"#Samsung":1,"#iQmetrix | MSP Canada: Fast and Simple Payment Processing for…":1,"#Puis-je traiter les ventes de détail sans fil sur un iPad ?":1,"#Payroll-ready reporting":1,"#Monitor sales with comprehensive reporting that offers actionable data to boost performance and sustain high engagement.":1,"#Detailed performance insights":1,"#Design flexible commission models that adapt to various employee types and product lines, ensuring fair and motivating rewards for every sale.":1,"#Customizable payout structures":1,"#Efficiently create, manage, and group employee profiles to assign tailored incentive programs and simplify payout processes.":1,"#Our commission and incentive solution keeps employees motivated with real-time sales performance tracking.":1,"#Streamlined employee management":1,"#Want to motivate and boost performance of your wireless retail employees?":1,"#Assign specific permissions and security roles to ensure that sensitive data is accessible only to authorized personnel.":1,"#Secure Access and Role Management":1,"#Our commission and incentive solution keeps employees motivated with real-time sales performance tracking. Easily manage employee profiles, group them for customized payouts, and tailor reward structures to fit your unique business model — all while driving engagement with detailed performance insights.":1,"#Generate detailed reports that offer actionable insights into sales performance and commission accrual, helping you make data-driven decisions.":1,"#Monitor every sale as it happens, providing immediate performance updates to keep teams focused and motivated.":1,"#Real-Time Sales Tracking":1,"#Configure commission and incentive models to match your unique business structure, whether it’s based on employee type, product category, or sales volume.":1,"#Customize Commissions Settings":1,"#Easily create and manage individual employee profiles, and organize them into groups to tailor commission plans based on roles or regions.":1,"#Motivated Employees Build Better Relationships":1,"#Seamlessly generate payroll from performance reports, making it easier to calculate and distribute earnings based on real-time sales data.":1,"#Empower Your Sales Team, Elevate Your Success":1,"#Retail Employee Commission and Incentive Software":1,"#Once a customer gets the text message that it is their turn to shop in your wireless retail store, they will be prompted to reply <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">“</span>Here” to the provided number when they arrive, so that associates can be notified of their arrival.":1,"#It moves from high-cost, high-effort implementations to turnkey, plug <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">'</span>n’ play solutions.":1,"#Email:":1,"#For <span ljsid-1=\"\">26</span> years, we’ve been passionate about helping the leading brands in telecom to grow by providing best-in-class software, services, and expertise that enables them to adapt and thrive. Our solutions powered $<span ljsid-3=\"\">17</span>BN in sales last year, handling nearly <span ljsid-5=\"\">53</span> million invoices and more than <span ljsid-7=\"\">28</span> million activations, and are used by more than <span ljsid-9=\"\">370</span>,<span ljsid-11=\"\">000</span> telecom retail professionals across almost <span ljsid-13=\"\">1</span>,<span ljsid-15=\"\">000</span> clients. iQmetrix is a privately held software-as-a-service (SaaS) company with employees in Canada, the U.S., India, and Europe. For more information, please visit <a ljsid-17=\"\">www.iqmetrix.com</a>.":1,"#iQmetrix | Samsung Care+ USA":1,"#www.iQmetrix.com":1,"#by <span ljsid-1=\"\">Ash Kreider</span> on Nov. <span ljsid-3=\"\">15</span>, <span ljsid-5=\"\">2023</span> in <a ljsid-7=\"\"> Telecom Industry Address </a> <a ljsid-9=\"\"> Retail Industry Trends </a>":1,"#Watch now":1,"#This regulatory reshaping of the US telecom landscape has made the lack of regulatory impact on the Canadian telecom sector all the more striking. While the Roger/Shaw merger has been delayed, it is still set to go through. And the CRTC’s efforts to boost competition in Canadian telecom have yet to bear fruit.":1,"#Charter Spectrum, in particular, has emerged as the dominant player in this space, outpacing competitors with an impressive <span ljsid-1=\"\">55</span>% year-over-year growth in wireless subscriptions from Q<span ljsid-3=\"\">2</span> <span ljsid-5=\"\">2022</span> to Q<span ljsid-7=\"\">2</span> <span ljsid-9=\"\">2023</span>. Additionally, Charter Spectrum has also managed to minimize the decline in cable TV subscribers, experiencing only a <span ljsid-11=\"\">5</span>% drop, a notably better performance compared to Altice’s <span ljsid-13=\"\">10</span>% and Comcast’s <span ljsid-15=\"\">14</span>% decline.":1,"#To dive deeper into these megatrends and explore the full insights from our <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> Telecom Industry Address, watch the recording now.":1,"#As we reflect on the key trends that have shaped the telecom retail industry in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span>, we’re also looking ahead to the possibilities of <span ljsid-3=\"\">2024</span>. As technology continues to drive innovation, we anticipate a dynamic landscape in which retailers who embrace these trends will be best positioned for success in the ever-evolving world of telecom retail.":1,"##<span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> Drop in demand for devices, with longer buying cycles":1,"#While we saw the rise of MVNOs as the top industry trend to watch, event attendees identified lower demand and longer upgrade cycles as their top trend. Meanwhile, our number four trend – the impact of AI on telecom – was tied for second.":1,"##<span ljsid-1=\"\">4</span> AI and its impacts on the telecom industry":1,"##<span ljsid-1=\"\">1</span> New wireline MVNOs gobbling up wireless market share":1,"#The retail industry is grappling with a severe labor shortage that has sent shockwaves through the workforce. <span ljsid-1=\"\">63</span>% of retailers are currently operating with a deficit of frontline employees, and half of those frontline employees believe that staffing levels have worsened since the pandemic.":1,"#Event poll results: what did Industry Address attendees see as the top trend?":1,"#Read More…":1,"#However, it is also notable that just over half of new device sales in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2022</span> were premium smartphones – reflecting a shift in preference toward devices with longer lifespans and advanced features like high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and advanced photography systems. Premium devices also tend to have extended periods for updates and support, contributing to their appeal among consumers tired of replacing their phone every other year.":1,"#The global smartphone market has witnessed a <span ljsid-1=\"\">6</span>% year-over-year decline in shipments in <span ljsid-3=\"\">2023</span>. Consumers are demonstrating a preference for holding onto their devices for a more extended period and are seeking greater value and cost-effective alternatives in the growing refurbished device market when they do need to purchase new devices.":1,"##<span ljsid-1=\"\">3</span> Government regulation in telecom — and its effect on the prepaid sector":1,"#The telecom industry has been actively embracing AI, with <span ljsid-1=\"\">34</span>% of telecom industry professionals reporting that their companies have incorporated AI into some aspect of their operations for more than six months. While <span ljsid-3=\"\">31</span>% are in the research and assessment phase, <span ljsid-5=\"\">5</span>% are yet to plan their AI integration.":1,"#Regulatory requirements in the U.S. have led to an explosion in prepaid services, driven by the acquisition of Tracfone by Verizon in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2020</span>. the delay in the much-anticipated release of the <span ljsid-3=\"\">5</span>G C band has cast a shadow over several key players in the industry this year.":1,"#AI is already delivering real benefits; <span ljsid-1=\"\">73</span>% of companies currently using AI technologies have seen significant increases in revenue, and <span ljsid-3=\"\">80</span>% of these companies have seen significant cost reductions.":1,"#Recently, at our <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> Telecom Industry Address, iQmetrix’s SVP of Revenue and Client Experience Jason Raymer delved into our top five megatrends in telecom retail over the past year. Here they are, in reverse countdown order — plus a snapshot of what our Industry Address attendees picked as their top megatrends.":1,"#Telecom retail is set for another exciting and challenging year.":1,"#However, there is hope on the horizon. Technology solutions are gaining ground, with <span ljsid-1=\"\">80</span>% of retailers saying they are planning to implement solutions to improve the employee experience, streamline operational efficiency, and provide tools for employees to excel in their roles. Retailers investing in these technologies are not only addressing labor shortages but also positioning themselves at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.":1,"#Our <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> Trends in Telecom Retail survey also reflects the growing shift toward use of AI technologies, with <span ljsid-3=\"\">63</span>.<span ljsid-5=\"\">1</span>% of telecom retail professionals saying they anticipate an upsurge in AI usage, particularly in improving customer experience and personalization.":1,"#Compounding these challenges, <span ljsid-1=\"\">43</span>% of retail employees are concerned about increased job demands and workloads. Given these concerns, it’s unsurprising that <span ljsid-3=\"\">74</span>% of retail workers are either actively job hunting or contemplating a switch to a new profession. The implications are clear; the retail sector must adapt to these profound labor challenges.":1,"##<span ljsid-1=\"\">5</span> Labor shortages in telecom retail":1,"#iQmetrix | Branding":1,"#iQmetrix | BOPIS Retail Software Solutions for Telecom":1,"#The Top 5 Megatrends in Telecom Retail":1,"#Manager, Marketing & Public Relations":1,"#iQmetrix | The Top 5 Megatrends in Telecom Retail":1,"#Total Wireless":1,"#iQmetrix | Total Wireless":1,"#The subsidy’s popularity has also brought attention to the market potential of previously unserviced low-income household, and is perhaps a strategic consideration for some major wireless operators launching strategies targeting low-income households – such as Verizon’s plan to launch hundreds of Total by Verizon stores in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> and <span ljsid-3=\"\">2024</span> that will provide no-contract prepaid wireless service. However, the ACP’s future is in jeopardy due to prolonged Congressional deadlock over partisan budget disputes, potentially leaving millions of households to face unaffordable rates or cancel services.":1,"#The Top <span ljsid-1=\"\">5</span> Megatrends in Telecom Retail":1,"#In looking at other types of apps, however, an interesting picture emerges when looking at <a ljsid-1=\"\">which age groups uses them the most</a>. Education, social, and media apps were most-used by Gen Z. Apps most-used by Millennials were largely interest-specific, including health and fitness, food & drink, and lifestyle. Whereas the apps most-used by Gen X and Boomers — weather, news, and medical apps — reflect a more utilitarian approach. Even in app types that are used by everyone, such as banking apps and dating apps, generational differences are reflected in which apps people use, with Gen Z largely making different choices than their older counterparts.":1,"#Privately held Solutions <span ljsid-1=\"\">2</span> GO Inc. is a multinational distributor of video game, mobility and consumer electronic products that serves leading retail, publishing, and manufacturing partners across the globe. An industry pioneer, highly regarded Solutions <span ljsid-3=\"\">2</span> GO Inc. has earned a plethora of awards and distinctions collectively by its valued partners and industry experts.":1,"#Phone:":1,"#continue making investments":1,"#% of Canada’s home-to-fiber connections outside of the territories) to provide independent competitors with access to their fiber networks. The same day, Bell retaliated by":1,"#T-Mobile, in a December <span ljsid-1=\"\">6</span> filing, argued that the rules lack consistency and practicality, foreseeing challenges in implementation and an influx of notifications for inconsequential events. AT&amp;T raised concerns about the legal basis of the draft document supporting the rules. Public interest groups, however, challenge the motives behind T-Mobile’s protest, highlighting its history of data breaches.":1,"#made in anticipation of the ruling. These cuts come despite reports that Canadian telecom will need to":1,"#After the chaos of":1,"#The CRTC’s approach to telecom regulation in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2024</span> will be an interesting development worth observing.":1,"#In the dynamic arena of the US, telecom is a state of continual flux, fueled by a series of federal regulations which have reshaped the telecom landscape and created shifts in consumer demand. And as key decisions from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) hang in balance, <span ljsid-1=\"\">2024</span> looks set to be another tumultuous year.":1,"#yet to provide an explanation":1,"#However, this ruling has yet to be finalized, and — perhaps more notably — Rogers has":1,"#-hour nationwide Roger’s outage, the CRTC made an interim decision directing carriers to provide notification of service disruptions within two hours, and to provide a report detailing the events and causes to the CRTC within":1,"#to meet a potential doubling of data consumption by":1,"#in planned network investments, in addition to the $":1,"#Concerned about this decline in consumer choice, the CRTC issued":1,"#as to how the massive outage occurred.":1,"#days.":1,"#Subsequently, and perhaps in an effort to reverse the anti-consumer optics of that decision, Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne <a ljsid-1=\"\">mandated that the CRTC prioritize</a> consumer rights, affordability, competition, and access in its decision-making going forward — an official change of direction from the previous <span ljsid-3=\"\">2006</span> directive for the CRTC to use market forces to guide decision-making.":1,"#While there are still several unresolved issues pending decision with the FCC, such as approval of satellite launches and squabbles over spectrum use, there have been three major areas of regulatory impact.":1,"#million in spending cuts made in":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Canadian roaming fees:</strong><em ljsid-1=\"\"> </em>Canada’s roaming fees remain <a ljsid-3=\"\">among the highest</a> globally, and in <span ljsid-5=\"\">2023</span>, all three major carriers increased their rates, exacerbating the already elevated costs. Minister Champagne has voiced concerns about this method of potentially raising rates without consumer awareness. The CRTC is currently in the early stages of studying the issue.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><a ljsid-0-0=\"\">T-Mobile: Towers built, radios ready, licenses… pending</a>:</strong> T-Mobile is close to receiving the <span ljsid-2=\"\">2</span>.<span ljsid-4=\"\">5</span>GHz licenses that they <a ljsid-6=\"\">bought for $<span ljsid-6-1=\"\">304</span> million in <span ljsid-6-3=\"\">2022</span></a> but is still waiting to receive after Congress allowed FCC’s spectrum auction authority to lapse. On December <span ljsid-8=\"\">11</span>, the US House passed legislation that would require the FCC to release the licenses — following a Senate decision three months prior. Analysts have noted that T-Mobile’s existing infrastructure would allow them to immediately upgrade service for <span ljsid-10=\"\">50</span> million individual customers, as well as enable them to provide home broadband services to <span ljsid-12=\"\">3</span> million households.":1,"#In the dynamic arena of US telecom, a series of federal regulations which have reshaped the telecom landscape and created shifts in consumer demand. On…":1,"#On the northern front, the Canadian telecom market looks almost placid by comparison – owing largely to <a ljsid-1=\"\">a lack of competition</a>. Despite regulators’ persistent efforts to address this issue over the years, their impact remains limited — a sharp distinction from the ongoing regulatory tumult to the south.":1,"#that would require Bell and Telus (which control":1,"#a temporary ruling":1,"#’":1,"#To understand this fascinating contrast further, it’s helpful to first examine the US market and the ways in which federal regulators have been reshaping the telecom landscape south of the <span ljsid-1=\"\">49</span><sup ljsid-2=\"\">th</sup> parallel.":1,"#The landscapes of the Canadian and US telecom markets present a study in contrasts.":1,"#canceling more than $<span ljsid-1=\"\">1</span> billion":1,"#Requirements for carriers to notify users of service disruptions, and to file after-incident reports to the CRTC:":1,"#However, Canadians shouldn’t expect much movement on telecom regulation soon; of <a ljsid-1=\"\">the several major issues currently before the CRTC</a>, most are still in the preliminary stages, including:":1,"#Thanks to ongoing consolidation in the Canadian telecom market, Canadians have the dubious distinction of paying <a ljsid-1=\"\">some of the highest rates</a> for wireless service in the world — which still didn’t stop the CRTC from approving the merger of Rogers and Shaw — a decision widely blasted by consumer advocacy groups as well as the Competition Bureau.":1,"#How did regulation shape US telecom in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span>?":1,"#Bell has filed with the Federal Court of Appeal challenging the decision and has asked for a stay. The review, scheduled for Feb":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\">Lack of wireless and internet service in the far north: </strong>in what is perhaps the most egregious example of the CRTC’s lack of urgency, its consultation surrounding lack of internet and wireless access in the North is <a ljsid-2=\"\">entering its fourth calendar year</a>, with no schedule for action after the end of public comments on December <span ljsid-4=\"\">22</span>, <span ljsid-6=\"\">2023</span>.":1,"#Against this backdrop, the effect that US regulators have had on the American telecom landscape is even more striking — especially given that the United States federal government is notorious for its generally laissez-faire approach to regulation of industry. For all that its funding has become a political football, the Affordable Connectivity Program is a great example of regulatory intervention that has benefited consumers and industry alike, and which has been enormously successful in achieving its stated goal of narrowing the digital divide in the United States.":1,"#The U.S. and Canada: a study in telecom opposites.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><a ljsid-0-0=\"\">New regulations for data breach reporting move forward, despite mobile carrier protests</a>: </strong>In early December, the FCC adopted an update to regulations on reporting breaches of customer data, the first since <span ljsid-2=\"\">2013</span>. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel stated that these policies aim to strengthen consumer safety protections, addressing the growing volume of data collected by mobile carriers. The new rules necessitate a reevaluation of breach notification processes by mobile network operators to meet updated reporting requirements — something that T-Mobile and AT&amp;T have expressed opposition to.":1,"#, could determine whether the ruling will be made permanent.":1,"#The only major telecom-specific issue that Canadian regulators have taken action on in <span ljsid-1=\"\">2023</span> is declining competition in the market for broadband internet services. This decline has been sharpest in Ontario and Quebec, where independent service providers serve <a ljsid-3=\"\"><span ljsid-3-0=\"\">47</span>% fewer customers</a> than they did two years ago. This has left many Canadians with very few options for high-speed internet services.":1,"#So how does the Canadian telecom market compare?":1,"#on November":1,"#The CRTC’s lone flag in the sand: fiber broadband competition.":1,"#<strong ljsid-0=\"\"><a ljsid-0-0=\"\">Affordable Connectivity Program enrollment soars as funding negotiations remain stalled</a>:</strong> The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), signed into law in late <span ljsid-2=\"\">2021</span> to subsidize low-cost wireless services for low-income households, has experienced a remarkable surge in enrollment, reaching <span ljsid-4=\"\">20</span>.<span ljsid-6=\"\">7</span> million households (nearly <span ljsid-8=\"\">17</span>% of all US households) in September <span ljsid-10=\"\">2023</span>, up from <span ljsid-12=\"\">13</span>.<span ljsid-14=\"\">6</span> million in September <span ljsid-16=\"\">2022</span>. This uptake in enrolment has represented <a ljsid-18=\"\">a large step toward</a> narrowing the digital divide in access to wireless and broadband services.":1,"#If a customer sends the message <span ljsid-1=\"\"></span><span ljsid-3=\"\">“</span>Leave”, they will be taken out of the queue. Associates will see them labelled as <span ljsid-5=\"\"></span><span ljsid-7=\"\">“</span>Left” for that day’s history. If the associate removes a customer from the queue, they will appear labelled as <span ljsid-9=\"\"></span><span ljsid-11=\"\">“</span>Removed.”":1,"#Trusted by some of the prepaid industry’s biggest brands!":1,"#Switch to RQ to unlock a superior VIDAPAY integration and enable an all-in-one point-of-sale and activation experience trusted by Total Wireless retailers.":1,"#Your one-stop shop for point-of-sale, retail management, payments, and more!":1,"#Watch a Demo Video":1,"#the Inventory Management Console;":1,"#the Operations Console;":1,"#the Customer and Sales Consoles;":1,"#We’re excited to introduce Shiftlab for RQ, our latest integration with Shiftlab’s cutting-edge technology.":1,"#POS and Retail Management Solutions Tailored for Total Wireless Retailers":1,"#Yes. RQ is very customizable so you can get the most out of the system tailored to your wireless retail business. We have a search function on the home screen that allows you to search anything imaginable – from an invoice number, product sku, customer, etc. And every report can easily be exported in excel. But we try our best to make it so that you don’t even need to with customizable reporting, filtering, and sorting options!":1,"#Does RQ offer custom fields that are both searchable and exportable?":1,"#Yes, there are a number of ways you can access the system remotely. Either with RQ installed locally to your desktop, with the myRQ app on your mobile device, or by accessing our Hub central management system. Each have varying functionality depending on your security role and what you are trying to achieve, from sales information to inventory management or employee information.":1,"#How do my wireless store employees see individual sales? Do they have to log in each time?":1,"#Can I set goals for my wireless retail stores and employees? If so, can I track those automatically?":1,"#Create schedules optimized for both wireless retail employees and guests, all with a single click. By combining real-time Point of Sale and Time & Attendance data, Shiftlab schedules your reps at ideal times to maximize your ROI.":1,"#Keep track of your telecom retail store teams’ time and attendance, save on labor costs, and streamline payroll with our smart time clock solution.":1,"#Empower your field team with access to real-time information to be proactive on key telecom retail staffing trends, like:":1,"#Get a first look at our game-changing solution, <strong ljsid-1=\"\">Shiftlab for RQ</strong>.":1,"#Workforce Management Software Built for Telecom Retail":1,"#Understand the recent enhancements Shiftlab has made to <strong ljsid-1=\"\">supercharge your wireless retail staff scheduling</strong>.":1,"#Are you ready to optimize your telecom retail workforce management?":1,"#Shiftlab’s AI-driven forecasting engine uses historical wireless retail sales data, recent trends and event effects to accurately predict the labor demand for each location down to the hour.":1,"#Get results in a tight wireless retail labor market":1,"#Hear success stories of retail operators who have already transitioned to Shiftlab, and understand their <strong ljsid-1=\"\">unprecedented ROI</strong>.":1,"#Unleash your team’s full potential with Shiftlab for RQ. With a click of a button, get direct access to Shiftlab’s powerful workforce management platform, right within your wireless retail management system. With <a ljsid-1=\"\">automated employee scheduling</a>, streamlined time and attendance management, and real-time data insights, you’ll be empowered to simplify the way you schedule employees.":1,"#An efficient, single workforce management solution":1,"#Learn how to maximize its use through a<strong ljsid-1=\"\"> live demo.</strong>":1,"#Revolutionize Your Operations with Shiftlab for RQ":1,"#When retailers manage expectations and minimize long lines, they can eliminate barriers and reduce walkouts. If a customer can’t wait in the virtual queue, associates can follow up to prevent lost sales.":1,"#iQmetrix’s Queue Management software enables telecom retailers to efficiently handle in-store traffic, minimize revenue loss from walkouts, and deliver exceptional experiences. Virtual queues allow customers to avoid waiting in line while providing retailers valuable insights about their needs.":1,"#Customers without a working device can still join the queue in person, and receive an estimated time to return to the store.":1,"#With Queue Management solutions, shoppers can join the virtual queue or schedule a visit. Efficiently manage in-store traffic, gain insights, and improve the shopping experience.":1,"#Benefits":1,"#Today, iQmetrix’s suite of <a ljsid-1=\"\">Vernetzter Handel</a> solutions powers the wireless retail operations of leading telecom brands — including major carriers and globally recognized device manufacturers. We also serve big-box retailers and authorized wireless dealers of all sizes.":1,"#Contactless Payments for Telecom Retail":1,"#Check out this step-by-step video for a comprehensive overview of RQ’s POS and retail management functionalities, including:":1,"#Learn how our intelligent retail management and point-of-sale solutions can power your wireless retail business.":1,"#Watch RQ in Action":1,"#the Reporting Console.":1,"#the Finance Console; and":1,"#the Employee Management Console;":1,"#Breathe easy with unlimited repairs including batteries and same day $":1,"#Visit <a ljsid-1=\"\">Samsung.com</a>, a <a ljsid-3=\"\">Samsung Experience Store</a>, or <a ljsid-5=\"\">SamsungCarePlus.com</a> to learn more.":1,"#Samsung Genuine Parts and Certified Technicians:":1,"#Next Business Day Replacements:":1,"#+ Samsung authorized locations.":1,"#Powerful protection for your Galaxy life covers Unlimited Drops, Spills, and Mechanical Breakdowns, enabling customers to use their phone with confidence while avoiding costly repairs.":1,"#Get immediate answers from a Samsung Care+ expert":1,"#Don’t worry. We’ll replace your Phone as soon as the next business day and help set it up.":1,"#cracked screen repairs at":1,"#Rest assured your Phone will be repaired by a Samsung Certified Technician using Samsung Genuine Parts.":1,"#<sup ljsid-0=\"\">²</sup>Unlimited Accidental Damage from Handling. Additional restrictions may apply. Repair eligibility is subject to change. Service fees may apply. Unlimited claims for mechanical failure. Please see plan <a ljsid-2=\"\">terms and conditions</a> for full coverage details.":1,"#Expert Support:":1,"#Unlimited Repairs:":1,"#Tax Integration":1,"#Payment-Powered Activations":1,"#Optimize operations, elevate experiences, and grow revenue with streamlined retail management, point-of-sale, and unified commerce solutions.":1,"#A fully integrated, end-to-end sales tax integration that manages tax collection, filing, and remittance, alleviating the burden of tax compliance.":1,"#Beyond just the core functionality, RQ also provides seamless integrations to more innovative applications, including:":1,"#Secure your store’s revenue stream with payment-powered activations — where devices are activated exclusively upon successful payment processing.":1,"#Integrated Activations and Top-Ups":1,"#Shiftlab is designed for telecom retailers to optimize their teams. Automate scheduling, streamline time and attendance, and provide real-time data to help your team make the most out of every shift.":1,"#Operational Excellence for Accelerated Growth":1},"version":4093}]