According to a report by 5G Americas and Omdia, the global 5G connection base will reach 1.8 billion by the end of 2023 and 7.9 billion by 2028, as 5G-advanced network improvements are implemented and work towards 6G is completed. While this represents a significant expansion, it is important to note that this growth may not be linear. The report states that factors such as infrastructure development, spectrum availability, device availability, and consumer demand will continue to influence the pace of adoption as different regions and segments continue to adopt the technology.
As per the report, as of Q3 2023, the world added 537 million 5G connections, bringing global totals to 1.6 billion, which represents an increase of 71 per cent over the past year. Overall, North America continues to be a leading region in 5G deployment, with 176 million connections as of Q3 2023. This represents the addition of 22 million new connections in the last quarter, or 14 per cent quarter on quarter (QoQ). This translates to a 26 per cent market share and 46 per cent penetration rate, highlighting the region’s significant commitment to advancing 5G technology. Within the region, some national operators have also already deployed or are in the process of deploying 5G standalone networks. Meanwhile, in Latin America and the Caribbean, 5G adoption is still in its early stages. However, the region is demonstrating encouraging progress. Q3 2023 saw an increase of 7 million long-term evolution (LTE) connections, bringing the total to 572 million. While 4G remains dominant, 5G connections are expected to quadruple in 2023, reaching 46 million. Looking further ahead, forecasts predict that the region will reach 492 million 5G connections by 2028, highlighting the potential for significant growth.
The report finds that the number of deployed 5G networks worldwide now rival 4G LTE deployments. Currently, there are 296 commercial 5G networks worldwide, and this number is anticipated to grow to 438 by 2025, reflecting significant investments in 5G infrastructure worldwide.
Commenting on the report, Chris Pearson, president, 5G Americas, said, “The global 5G landscape shows positive momentum as innovation and collaboration continue to be the mainstays for long-term progress. With the World Radio Conference wrapping up, it is important that international cooperation and efforts continue to ensure that spectrum and technology standards continue to propel this growth.”
Meanwhile, Jose Otero, vice president, Caribbean and Latin America, 5G Americas, said, “4G LTE and 5G continue to be important mobile communications technologies for Latin America. Upcoming spectrum auctions and more mass-market access to 5G devices in 2024 will create more robust opportunities for 5G success in the region.”
Further, Kristin Paulin, principal analyst, Omdia, said, “The current 5G landscape presents a cautiously optimistic picture. By addressing new opportunities through innovation and cooperation the industry can ensure that 5G reaches its full potential and unlocks its transformative impact on our lives.”
