BICS
BICS is a Brussels-headquartered wholesale international telecom carrier and Proximus Global subsidiary that delivers 5G roaming, messaging, voice, IoT connectivity, and CPaaS services to MNOs, MVNOs, satellite operators, and enterprises across 200+ countries via its owned IPX backbone.
- Company typePrivate
- Founded2004
- HeadquartersBrussels, Belgium
- Headcount501–1,000
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingServices
What BICS does
BICS is a wholesale international telecommunications carrier and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proximus Global (the international arm of Belgium's Proximus Group). Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Brussels, the company operates a fully-owned global IPX backbone spanning 180+ countries, 140+ Points of Presence, 25 sea cables, and 330,000 km of cable, with 700+ direct operator routes, 320+ direct operator connections, and 25+ peerings. BICS claims to carry approximately 50% of the world's voice and data roaming traffic, 15 billion+ SMS annually, and 150+ million connected IoT devices.
The product portfolio is organized into three pillars: Telco solutions (5G Standalone roaming, network and connectivity, voice, messaging, fraud prevention, advanced analytics, travel eSIM for MNOs); Enterprise solutions (BICS MESO CPaaS platform with SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, and Voice; cloud communications integrated with Microsoft Operator Connect and Google Voice SIP Link; SCION secure internet; Private Network Connect); and Satellite/Specialty (satellite-to-mobile integration with Starlink, Lynk, and Skylo; eSIM Hub supporting SGP.32, LTE-M, and NB-IoT). Core proprietary technology includes the Netcracker Digital OSS platform, the FraudGuard ML-based fraud detection engine, and the eSIM Hub for IoT connectivity management.
BICS generates revenue primarily through usage-based wholesale fees for roaming, voice, messaging, and IoT connectivity, complemented by subscription/managed services for CPaaS, cloud communications, and white-label travel eSIM programs. It sells via direct enterprise field sales, hyperscaler referrals (Google, Microsoft), channel partners, and an API-first developer portal, targeting MNOs, MVNOs/MVNEs, satellite operators, and enterprise customers across retail, banking, travel, logistics, energy, and critical infrastructure verticals.
BICS firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- BICS
- Legal name
- BICS SA
- Website
- https://bics.com
- Company type
- Private
- Founded year
- 2004
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 501–1,000 employees
- Short description
- BICS is a Brussels-headquartered wholesale international telecom carrier and Proximus Global subsidiary that delivers 5G roaming, messaging, voice, IoT connectivity, and CPaaS services to MNOs, MVNOs, satellite operators, and enterprises across 200+ countries via its owned IPX backbone.
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
BICS industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Wholesale Telecommunications Services
- NAICS
- Local Messengers and Local Delivery (4922)
- SIC
- Wholesale-Computers & Peripheral Equipment & Software (5045)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Operational/Real-Time BI & Streaming Analytics (HDAEAMAH)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Data Platform, BI & Analytics Integration (BPAEAAAI), Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) & BI (HDAEAMAG)
Keywords
Where BICS is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Brussels
- HQ country
- Belgium
- HQ region
- Europe
Offices1 record
Markets served
BICS business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Services
- Cost components
- Infrastructure, Technology or R&D, Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales
Revenue model
- Wholesale Roaming Services: BICS carries approximately 50% of the world's voice and data roaming traffic. Revenue is generated through wholesale roaming agreements with MNOs, MVNOs, and satellite operators globally, including 5G SA roaming, data control roaming, and managed roaming services.
- Messaging Services: BICS transports over 15 billion SMS annually across 180+ countries via its global carrier-grade infrastructure. Revenue includes P2P SMS, A2P messaging, and SMS firewall/fraud prevention services.
- IoT Connectivity: Global IoT connectivity solutions including eSIM Hub, SIM for Things API, and satellite-to-mobile connectivity. BICS connects over 150 million IoT devices with 700+ operator relationships for M2M communications.
- Cloud Communications / CPaaS: BICS MESO CPaaS platform providing multichannel communications (SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, Voice), cloud numbers, authentication, and campaign orchestration for enterprise customers.
- International Voice Services: BICS is one of the world's top voice providers, delivering international voice traffic with simplified traffic management, guaranteed QoS, and flexible pricing for MNOs.
- Fraud Prevention and Security: FraudGuard services including SMS fraud prevention, voice fraud prevention, signaling security, and roaming fraud protection. Revenue generated as a managed service component of BICS' wholesale offerings.
- Travel eSIM for MNOs: White-label travel eSIM solutions enabling MNOs to offer branded eSIM services. Part of BICS' partner program generating revenue through wholesale pricing and platform fees.
- Enterprise Cloud Voice (Google Partnership): BICS provides PSTN replacement and cloud-based numbering services across 40+ countries via Google Cloud partnership, positioning BICS among the top 8 largest carriers worldwide.
Go-to-market motion3 records
Distribution channels7 records
Marketing channels7 records
BICS product offering
Product offeringCore offering
BICS is a wholesale international telecommunications carrier that provides global voice, data, messaging, and roaming services over a fully-owned IPX network spanning 180+ countries with 700+ direct operator routes. It sells CPaaS (BICS MESO), IoT connectivity, fraud prevention, MVNO/MVNE enablement, cloud communications, and 5G standalone roaming to mobile operators, MVNOs, satellite operators, and enterprises worldwide.
Product overview
BICS is a Proximus Global company offering a comprehensive telecommunications platform with three core pillars: Telco solutions (5G, Network & Connectivity, Roaming, Messaging, Voice, Fraud Prevention), Enterprise solutions (CPaaS platform MESO, Cloud Communications, Global IoT Connectivity, Private Network Connect, SCION Internet), and MVNO/MVNE services. The platform operates on a fully owned global IPX network infrastructure spanning 700+ direct routes, 143 Points of Presence, and coverage across 180+ countries. Key products include the BICS MESO CPaaS platform for customer engagement, eSIM Hub for IoT deployments, and specialized roaming services handling approximately 50% of global data roaming traffic.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- BICS MESO: Customer communications platform (CPaaS) offered by BICS for orchestrating communications with multichannel capabilities.
- Travel eSIM for MNOs
- eSIM Hub
Products and services
- 5G Services Global 5G Standalone (SA) roaming connectivity with low latency and high bandwidth assurance. Includes 5G SA roaming hub, managed roaming services, and signaling security for next-generation mobile networks. Sold to MNOs seeking international 5G coverage.
- Network & Connectivity Global network infrastructure comprising 700+ direct routes, 40+ IXP partnerships, 143 Points of Presence worldwide, and 25 sea cables covering 180+ countries for data, capacity, and reach. Sold to operators and enterprises requiring global transport.
- Roaming Services International roaming solutions including voice/SMS roaming, VoLTE roaming, data control roaming, and fraud protection. BICS handles approximately 50% of the world's voice and data roaming traffic. Sold to MNOs, MVNOs, and satellite operators.
- Travel eSIM for MNOs White-label travel eSIM solution for mobile network operators enabling subscribers to access data connectivity in 100+ destinations. Features instant activation, multi-language interfaces, and wholesale pricing for MNOs.
- Messaging International SMS messaging solutions including P2P SMS, A2P messaging, and SMS firewall for fraud prevention. Processes 15 billion+ SMS annually across 180+ countries with 1,000+ operator connections. Sold to MNOs and enterprises.
- Voice International voice services including managed voice solutions, IPX transport, and VoLTE roaming enabler for MNOs. Provides high-quality, low-latency routing with direct interconnections globally.
- Fraud Prevention & Security Telecommunications fraud protection using machine learning and threat intelligence. Includes signaling security, SMS fraud prevention, voice fraud prevention, and roaming fraud protection with 90-95% fraud detection rate. Sold to MNOs and enterprises.
- Advanced Analytics Big data analytics platform for roaming business intelligence with machine learning techniques. Provides real-time traffic surveillance, QoE management, M2M/IoT detection, and customized reporting for 2G/3G/4G/5G networks. Sold to MNOs.
- MVNO/MVNE Solutions Managed and hosted solution for MVNOs/MVNEs providing instant global roaming reach, voice/messaging/roaming connectivity, big data analytics, fraud prevention, and billing/settlement services on BICS' fully owned IPX network.
- Satellite Network Operator Solutions Global roaming suite enabling satellite operators to integrate with mobile networks for seamless connectivity. Includes D2D (device-to-device) connectivity, NTN coverage, IoT connectivity via GEO satellites, and 5G capabilities. Partners include Starlink, Lynk, and Skylo.
- BICS MESO (CPaaS Platform) Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) enabling multichannel customer engagement via SMS, WhatsApp, RCS, and Voice. Includes campaign orchestration, self-service dashboards, 2FA/authentication, and industry solutions for retail, banking, travel, and logistics.
- Cloud Communications Cloud-based communications including cloud numbers, cloud telephony, SIP trunking, service management, and number portability. Features Microsoft Operator Connect and Google Voice SIP Link integrations for enterprise UCaaS.
- Global IoT Connectivity End-to-end IoT connectivity solutions including eSIM Hub, IoT eSIM (SGP.32, LTE-M, NB-IoT), SIM provisioning, cloud connectivity, and IoT testing services. Covers 700+ operators globally with satellite connectivity options. Connects 150M+ IoT devices.
- SCION Internet Secure, resilient internet connectivity built for critical infrastructure using SCION internet architecture. Provides organizations direct control over data routing to prevent cross-border data leakage with cryptographic protection. Sold to financial services, healthcare, and utilities.
- Private Network Connect Ultra-secure 4G/5G connectivity solutions for private networks serving manufacturing, mining, logistics, airports, seaports, and government sectors with dedicated network coverage.
Quantifiable outcome
- BICS handles 50% of world's voice and data roaming traffic
- +10 more outcomes
Companies that use BICS
Customer profileNamed customers19 records
Segments9 records
Ideal customer profiles8 records
BICS technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- Yes
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration5 records
AI capability1 record
Feature8 records
BICS partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
17 partnerships are on record, tiered core, major and minor.
- Google CloudcoreBICS expanded its collaboration with Google Cloud to enable enterprises to replace legacy phone systems with cloud-based solutions integrated into Google ecosystems. Google refers customers to BICS for PSTN replacement and cloud numbering services across more than 40 countries, leveraging BICS' global network infrastructure of 450+ direct MNO relationships and 150+ million connected devices. The partnership positions BICS among eight of the industry's largest carriers worldwide.
- SyniversecoreSyniverse and BICS partnered to expand the reach of 5G Standalone (SA) roaming by integrating their signaling hub solutions and establishing peering arrangements. The collaboration aims to facilitate secure, reliable, and efficient 5G SA roaming connections supporting IoT, cloud gaming, and private networks for operators globally.
- AnapayacoreBICS and Swiss company Anapaya formed a partnership to deploy SCION internet technology globally across Belgium, France, Singapore, and the United States. SCION provides organizations with direct control over data routing to prevent unintentional cross-border data leakage and includes cryptographic protection against traffic redirection attacks. The technology already powers Switzerland's interbank network and SecureSwiss Health Network.
- NUSOmajorBICS and NUSO expanded their five-year partnership to provide greater global coverage and services for enterprise customers in cloud communications. NUSO becomes BICS' key partner for US cloud number and voice termination services while BICS provides NUSO with international cloud numbers to support its expansion into Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia.
- Starlink (SpaceX)coreBICS partnered with Starlink to bring direct-to-cell satellite connectivity to Europe. Proximus Global and Starlink partnered to expand direct-to-cell satellite connectivity in Europe, enabling mobile coverage extension via satellite.
- LynkcoreBICS and Lynk announced an agreement to ensure mobile coverage everywhere with satellite direct-to-mobile phone service, enabling satellite-to-mobile connectivity for consumers.
- SkylocoreBICS partners with Skylo to deliver ubiquitous NB-IoT connectivity via GEO satellites, enabling cellular connectivity for remote sensors and devices across maritime, aviation, automotive, energy, logistics, healthcare, and utilities sectors.
- Netcracker TechnologycoreBICS, a Proximus Global company, upgraded its Netcracker Digital OSS deployment as part of a strategic modernization program. The upgrade encompasses all OSS platform components including Resource Inventory, Discovery & Reconciliation, Service Inventory, and Network Planning & Design. The platform underpins wholesale and carrier services such as roaming, messaging, voice, 5G, IoT IP Exchange, and data capacity.
- MicrosoftcoreBICS was selected as connectivity partner for Microsoft's new cloud region in Belgium. BICS also provides Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams and Google Voice SIP Link integration for enterprise cloud communications.
- Avnet SilicaminorBICS partners with Avnet Silica for IoT connectivity distribution. Since partnering in 2019, they have signed customers in medical devices, alarm systems, and tracking systems applications.
- Epic MaltaminorEpic Malta partnered with BICS to maintain roaming connectivity for travelers post-2G/3G sunset, ensuring subscribers can continue using services as networks evolve.
- UnifyminorUnify partnered with BICS to combine BICS' cloud phone numbers and SIP Trunking capabilities with Unify's solutions, enabling partners to provide comprehensive UCaaS solutions with global reach.
- Hutchison Drei AustriaminorBICS expanded global standalone 5G roaming with Hutchison Drei Austria as one of two new operators added to BICS' 5G SA roaming network.
- ElisaminorBICS expanded 5G SA roaming with Elisa as part of its strategy to grow 5G standalone roaming coverage across Europe.
- Proximus GlobalcoreBICS is part of Proximus Global alongside Telesign and Route Mobile, integrated under the Proximus Global brand. This integration enabled Proximus Global to be recognized as a Leader in the 2026 Gartner Magic Quadrant for CPaaS.
- Monaco TelecomminorMonaco Telecom partnered with BICS to roll out the first fully nationwide 5G service, with BICS providing roaming connectivity for borderless next-generation connectivity.
- MOBtextingminorMOBtexting was acquired by BICS Singapore, a subsidiary of BICS, to enhance communications platform services globally. The acquisition combines MOBtexting's cloud-native solutions with BICS' telecom footprint across 200+ countries.
Scale indicators14 records
Recent moves8 records
Expansion highlights6 records
BICS competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- Vonage (Ericsson): Cloud communications and CPaaS provider (now part of Ericsson) offering APIs, UCaaS, and SIP trunking. Overlaps with BICS' cloud communications, Microsoft Teams Operator Connect, and enterprise CPaaS offerings.
- Twilio: CPaaS leader providing programmable messaging, voice, and authentication APIs. Directly comparable to BICS MESO CPaaS platform for enterprise customer engagement and A2P messaging.
- Infobip: CPaaS platform with strong mobile operator relationships and messaging/voice APIs. Comparable to BICS MESO for enterprise customer engagement and omnichannel communications.
- Syniverse: Direct competitor in mobile signaling, roaming hubs, and 5G SA inter-carrier services. Syniverse and BICS actively partner for 5G SA peering while competing for the same MNO signaling and roaming contracts globally.
- iBasis: Wholesale voice, data, and IPX carrier serving MNOs and MVNOs globally. Directly comparable to BICS in international voice termination, LTE/5G data roaming, and IPX transport services.
- Bandwidth Inc. Cloud communications provider offering voice, messaging, and 911 services via APIs. Comparable to BICS for enterprise cloud voice and CPaaS APIs in North America.
- Sinch: Global CPaaS and messaging provider serving enterprises and MNOs. Directly competes with BICS in A2P messaging, RCS, WhatsApp business, and operator messaging hubs.
Broad incumbents
- Tata Communications: Global wholesale voice, signaling, and IPX carrier serving MNOs and enterprises. Overlaps with BICS in wholesale roaming, international voice, and managed network services, with a broader enterprise portfolio.
Others
- Route Mobile (sister company): Sister entity under Proximus Global providing CPaaS and A2P messaging solutions. Directly comparable to BICS MESO for enterprise messaging and operator messaging hubs, particularly in emerging markets.
- Telesign (sister company): Sister entity under Proximus Global, focused on digital identity, fraud prevention, and verification APIs. Directly comparable to FraudGuard for telecom fraud intelligence and 2FA authentication.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat6 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
BICS social profiles
Digital presenceBICS financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
BICS leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles7 records
BICS subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries5 records
BICS funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds
Investors
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
BICS M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A2 records
Investments
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about BICS
What does BICS do?
BICS is a wholesale international telecommunications carrier that provides global voice, data, messaging, and roaming services over a fully-owned IPX network spanning 180+ countries with 700+ direct operator routes. It sells CPaaS (BICS MESO), IoT connectivity, fraud prevention, MVNO/MVNE enablement, cloud communications, and 5G standalone roaming to mobile operators, MVNOs, satellite operators, and enterprises worldwide.
Is BICS a public or private company?
BICS is a private company. It is classified as corporate owned and is currently operating.
When was BICS founded?
BICS was founded in 2004. It employs 501 to 1,000 people.
Where is BICS based?
BICS is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, in the Europe region.
How does BICS make money?
Eight revenue lines are on record. Wholesale Roaming Services are the primary driver. The others are messaging Services, ioT Connectivity, cloud Communications / CPaaS, international Voice Services, fraud Prevention and Security, travel eSIM for MNOs and enterprise Cloud Voice (Google Partnership).
Who are BICS's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are Vonage (Ericsson), Twilio, Infobip, Syniverse, iBasis, Bandwidth Inc. and Sinch. Tata Communications is listed as a broad incumbent. Others are Route Mobile (sister company) and Telesign (sister company).
Does BICS have an API?
Yes. BICS offers a developer portal with APIs for telecommunications services. The SIM for Things API enables IoT deployments and connectivity management. The platform supports cloud communications APIs including messaging, voice, and authentication capabilities for enterprise customers. Developer documentation is at developer.bics.com/portal/apis.
What industry is BICS in?
BICS's product category is Wholesale Telecommunications Services. Its primary akta.pro industry code is HDAEAMAH, Operational/Real-Time BI & Streaming Analytics, with a secondary code of BPAEAAAI, Data Platform, BI & Analytics Integration. Its NAICS code is 4922 and its SIC code is 5045.