A number of new and exciting mobile operators have emerged over the past year. These operators are not driven by traditional telecom players, but by banks, brands, celebrities, and sports clubs.
These new mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) use mobile offerings as a way to build closer customer relationships, increase loyalty, and unlock new revenue streams.
Here, we’ve put together a list of some of the most exciting new MVNO initiatives:
Revolut – Revolut Mobile Plans
The digital challenger bank Revolut has announced that Revolut Mobile Plans will be launched in the UK and Germany. The subscription offers unlimited domestic usage and generous roaming allowances for travelers. This initiative builds on the launch of Revolut’s eSIM in 2024.
N26
Another mobile bank to launch eSIM services is N26. In May 2025, they introduced an eSIM-based offering designed for travelers.
Nubank – Nucel
Nubank introduced NuCel in Brazil in October 2024. With more than 100 million customers, the bank is focusing on flexible, prepaid mobile solutions with no binding period – an ideal fit for its young customer base.
Western Union
Western Union specializes in money transfers and serves a large number of travelers. As a result, the company has started offering eSIMs that provide more affordable mobile connectivity abroad.
Heineken – HeiMobile
Heineken launched HeiMobile in Finland in July 2025. Instead of maximizing screen time, the brand encourages digital detox—rewarding customers for disconnecting with bar vouchers and event invitations.
Lufthansa Group
Lufthansa has been offering travel eSIM services since 2024, sold as add-on services to passengers. This is a clear win-win: passengers save money on mobile connectivity, while Lufthansa gains an additional revenue stream.
MrBeast
In 2025, MrBeast announced plans to launch his own mobile operator in 2026. With the potential to attract millions of customers by converting just a fraction of his 400-million-strong YouTube fan base, he is well positioned for success.
Smartless – Smartless Mobile
The podcast trio behind SmartLess Mobile launched their own low-cost mobile offering in June 2025, built around humor, a strong sense of community, and full transparency.
Donald Trump – Trump Mobile
From the man who puts his name on just about everything, it was only a matter of time before a mobile subscription followed. Trump Mobile launched in June 2025 and is aimed squarely at loyal MAGA supporters. A gold-plated phone? You’ll find that at Trump Mobile too.
FC Barcelona – Barça Mobile
“We want to create an experience, a real connection between Barça and its fans, a network that transcends borders and keeps us together,” says the management of the popular football club about Barça Mobile.
In April 2025, FC Barcelona launched Barça Mobile, a global travel eSIM available in more than 170 countries. Future plans also include traditional mobile services and fiber connectivity.
Celtic FC – Celtic Mobile
Celtic FC launched Celtic Mobile in the UK in June 2025. When the news broke, 25,000 supporters signed up. Celtic Mobile attracts new customers through competitions offering prizes such as VIP tickets and signed jerseys.
What we’re seeing now is that selling mobile subscriptions is no longer just a goal in itself. For brands, it’s about becoming a bigger part of customers’ everyday lives. For banks, it’s about loyalty and customer benefits. And for celebrities and sports clubs, it’s about monetizing their fan bases.
