The adoption of 5G networks is rapidly increasing, with 296 commercial networks currently in existence around the world. It is expected to increase to 438 by 2025, and these numbers reflect the heavy investment in his 5G infrastructure on a global scale.
Recent data as of December 14, 2023 reveals the distribution of 5G and 4G LTE network deployments.
5G network:
Global: 296
North America: 17
Latin America and the Caribbean: 32
4G LTE network:
Global: 712
North America: 18
Latin America and the Caribbean: 133
As of Q3 2023, the world has added 537 million 5G connections, increasing the number to 1.6 billion. This is a staggering 71% increase over the past year. These statistics are taken from 5G Americas in combination with Omdia data analysis.
Chris Pearson, president of 5G Americas, praised this growth, saying, “The global 5G landscape is showing positive momentum as innovation and collaboration remain the mainstays of long-term progress.” Ta.
Omdia predicts that global 5G connections will skyrocket, reaching 1.8 billion by the end of 2023 and a whopping 7.9 billion by 2028. These estimates take into account advances in 5G-Advanced network improvements and the continued pursuit of 6G technology.
However, the pace of this expansion may not follow a linear trajectory, depending on various factors such as infrastructure development, spectrum availability, device accessibility, and consumer demand across different regions and segments. there is.
North America is at the forefront of 5G adoption, boasting 176 million connections as of Q3 2023. The region added 22 million new connections in the last quarter alone, representing strong quarter-on-quarter growth of 14%.
With a market share of 26% and penetration rate of 46%, North America has demonstrated a strong commitment to the advancement of 5G technology. In addition, several domestic carriers are already in the process of deploying or have already deployed 5G standalone networks.
Meanwhile, in Latin America and the Caribbean, the 5G landscape is in its infancy, but there are positive signs. In Q3 2023, LTE connections increased by 7 million, reaching a total of 572 million.
While 4G remains dominant, 5G connections are expected to quadruple in 2023, reaching 46 million. Future forecasts predict an impressive growth trajectory, with the number of 5G connections in the region expected to reach 492 million by 2028, highlighting the potential for significant expansion. .
Jose Otero, vice president of 5G Americas for the Caribbean and Latin America, anticipates strengthening 5G opportunities in the region, saying, “With the spectrum auction scheduled for 2024 and the mass market for 5G devices, “This increased access will create a stronger opportunity for 5G success.” Latin America region. ”
In a cautiously optimistic tone, Omdia Principal Analyst Christine Poulin emphasizes the need for innovation and collaboration to unlock the transformative potential of 5G.
She said: “The current state of 5G presents a cautiously optimistic outlook. By tackling new opportunities through innovation and collaboration, the industry can help ensure that 5G reaches its full potential and that we It will ensure that we can have a transformative impact on the lives of people.”
