AT&T, DigitalBridge and Verizon Leaders to Headline Connect (X) 2026 Digital Infrastructure Event

Why It Matters

The summit spotlights the leaders shaping America’s wireless backbone, signaling where capital and technology will flow in the next decade. Insights from these executives will guide operators, investors and regulators on building resilient, AI‑enabled networks.

Key Takeaways

• AT&T, Verizon, DigitalBridge headline Connect (X) 2026
• Event runs May 4‑6 in Fort Lauderdale
• Five tracks cover AI, infrastructure, finance, smart spaces, regulation
• Tower CEOs join “View from the Tower” panel
• Conference targets investment and policy shaping digital infrastructure

Pulse Analysis

The digital infrastructure sector is at a tipping point as artificial intelligence, 5G expansion and edge computing drive unprecedented data traffic. Operators are racing to densify networks, add small cells, and upgrade backhaul capacity, while investors chase assets that promise stable, long‑term cash flows. Industry gatherings such as Connect (X) provide a rare forum where technology trends, capital allocation and regulatory frameworks intersect, helping participants translate macro‑level demand into actionable deployment strategies. By 2027, global telecom capex is projected to exceed $500 billion, highlighting the scale of upcoming investments.

The presence of senior leaders from AT&T, Verizon and DigitalBridge underscores the strategic weight of the event. AT&T’s network planning chief and Verizon’s chief network officer are responsible for rolling out nationwide 5G and future 6G architectures, while DigitalBridge’s COO oversees a portfolio of tower and data‑center assets that underpin carrier expansions. Their combined perspectives offer a window into how telecoms will balance spectrum acquisition, site acquisition costs and AI‑driven network optimization, topics that directly affect tower operators such as Crown Castle and American Tower. Their remarks also signal potential partnerships between carriers and tower REITs to accelerate site deployments.

Investors and policymakers will watch the conference’s five tracks for clues on where capital will flow next. The AI & Emerging Tech track promises insights into edge‑cloud integration, while the Capital and Finance track will dissect recent M&A activity and financing models that could reshape tower ownership structures. Meanwhile, the Regulatory Roadmap session is poised to address siting challenges and spectrum policy, issues that can accelerate or stall network rollouts. Attendees leave with a clearer roadmap for funding, deploying and regulating the next generation of connectivity. The event’s networking opportunities often catalyze joint ventures that materialize within months.