CommScope CTO Sees Wireless, Fixed-Line in Brewing ‘Battle for the Home’

In home networking, CommScope continues to see a drive toward streaming devices, “and we're reacting quickly to reallocate resources to ensure we have a primary position as this transition takes place,” said Chief Technology Officer Morgan Kurk on a Q3 call Thursday. New technologies like Wi-Fi 6 “will give us even greater opportunities to support applications with our streaming devices in the future,” he said. The “collection of spectrum” in the U.S. “will become the foundation that enables 5G to reach its potential,” said Kurk. That spectrum will drive “increased competition for consumer wallets between wireless operators for mobility” and hasten the fight between wireless and fixed-line operators “in the battle for the home,” he said. “As the impact of COVID-19 will likely impact the world throughout 2021, operators will need to enhance the fixed-line access, given how essential connectivity has now become in the home.” Though the pandemic brought many challenges, it shows “the world how essential network connectivity is,” said new CEO Charles Treadway, who joined a month ago from Accudyne Industries (see personals section, Oct. 5). “Whether it's keeping businesses running, maintaining our education systems with virtual teaching or helping people stay connected to their loved ones, COVID-19 has highlighted the power of network connectivity.”