The global mobile technology landscape is evolving, with 5G connections set to account for the majority of mobile data subscriptions by the end of the decade. This shift reflects the increasing availability and affordability of 5G services, along with a rising appetite for seamless mobile data transfer.
Regional disparities in 5G adoption
While 5G technology is spreading globally, adoption rates vary significantly between regions. North America leads the pack with around percent of its population covered by 5G networks, followed by East Asia and the Pacific at around percent. Sub-Saharan Africa, meanwhile, has lagged far behind, with 5G expansion limited to select urban centers. This underscores a persistent global digital divide, with millions set to be locked out from digital transformation benefits.
5G standalone networks
In regions with advanced 5G coverage, the focus has turned to the rollout of standalone 5G networks (5G SA). 5G SA networks are those which do not rely on existing 4G infrastructure, and which therefore offer superior performance. As of the second quarter of 2024, mobile network operators worldwide were investing in 5G standalone infrastructure, a percent increase on the previous quarter.