by SAVIOUS KWINIKA
JOHANNESBURG – MOBILE operators are projected to generate US$625 billion from fifth-generation (5G) services globally by 2027.
This is more than double from $310 billion in 2023.
Juniper Research predicts this growth will be driven by the migration of mobile subscriptions to 5G networks, and the increasing inclusion of eSIMs in devices such as laptops and Wi-Fi hotspots.
The research forecasts 80 percent of global operator-billed service revenue will be attributable to 5G by 2027, allowing operators to secure a return on investment into their 5G networks.
However, the increasing implementation of eSIMs into new devices will drive global cellular data traffic to grow by over 180 percent between 2023 and 2027, as data traffic is offloaded from fixed and Wi-Fi networks to 5G.
Research author, Frederick Savage, commented that eSIM-capable devices will drive significant growth in cellular data, as consumers leverage cellular networks for use cases that have historically used fixed networks.
“Operators must ensure that networks, including 5G and upcoming 6G networks, are future-proofed by implementing new technologies across the entirety of networks,” Savage said.
To prepare for this increasing demand in cellular data, the report predicts 6G standards must adopt innovative technologies that are not currently used in 5G standards.
It identified Non-terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and sub-1THz frequency bands as key technologies that must be at the centre of initial trials and tests of 6G networks, to provide increased data capabilities over existing 5G networks.
However, the research cautions that the increased cost generated by the use of satellites for NTNs and the acquisition costs of high-frequency spectrum will create longer timelines for securing return on 6G investment for operators.
– CAJ News
