Telecom Operators Seek Deeper Digital Ties Through Apps, Payments, and Services
AT&T, Jio, VEON, Airtel, Orange, e&, and Telkomsel are trying to convert basic connectivity into wider digital relationships. Apple's App Store ecosystem enabled more than $1.4 trillion in developer billings and sales in 2025, while VEON reported $644 million in digital revenue in the first half of 2026. The article argues that carriers need specific advantages such as easier account management, local payments, or network-based security to keep customers interacting with them directly.
Several named carriers are exploring ways to move past basic connectivity. Apple's app marketplace handled over $1.4 trillion in developer transactions and sales during 2025, with a weekly audience averaging more than 850 million people across 175 countries and regions. That reach shows app stores remain central to service discovery, though most of that commerce did not involve an Apple commission.
VEON's digital revenue for the first half of 2026 climbed 55.5% to $644 million, equal to 26.1% of group revenue. Its second-quarter financial-services line reached $151 million, while digital-life offerings such as entertainment, ride-hailing and healthcare brought $119 million. Acquisitions and reclassification affected growth, so organic adoption must be separated from reporting changes.
If operators become everyday digital gateways, customers could gain simpler account management, local payment choices, and integrated security. Small businesses and developers may reach more users through carrier channels, but could also grow more dependent on telecom platforms. Consumers might see more bundled services and stronger retention offers, which may improve convenience while raising concerns about choice and switching costs. The social effect likely depends on whether these services remain transparent, useful, and easy to leave.