Global 5G connections reach nearly 2 billion

The global adoption of 5G connections continued its steady climb in the first quarter of 2024, reaching nearly 2 billion with an addition of 185 million new connections, according to data from 5G Americas and Omdia.

North America leads the charge in 5G adoption, with 5G connections in the region comprising 32% of all wireless cellular connections. Notably, the region experienced healthy growth in the first quarter, adding 22 million new connections to operator networks. In the first quarter of 2024, North American 5G connections totalled 220 million.

Last quarter, Latin America also witnessed solid growth in 4G LTE and 5G connections, adding 8 million new LTE connections for a total of 591 million across the region. Additionally, the region continues to embrace the 5G revolution with 9 million new 5G connections added to reach a total of 48 million 5G connections. 4G LTE subscriptions meanwhile continue to remain strong throughout the region — particularly in rural and remote areas — even as the availability of 5G handsets and spectrum continue to grow.

Looking ahead, Omdia forecasts paint a picture of the telecommunications landscape we can expect to see throughout this decade. Global 5G connections are projected to reach 7.7 billion by 2028, with North America forecast to boast 700 million 5G connections by the same year.

The Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem will meanwhile continue to remain a fundamental component of the digital revolution. Currently, global IoT subscriptions stand at 3.3 billion, complemented by 6.7 billion smartphone subscriptions. Forecasts suggest that IoT subscriptions will reach 5 billion, while smartphone subscriptions will surge to 8 billion by 2028, highlighting the evolving nature of connectivity and the interconnectedness of our digital world.

Globally, the number of deployed 5G networks has exceeded the pace of 4G LTE network deployments at the equivalent time in the technology cycle; there are nearly as many 5G North American deployments as 4G LTE networks. As of June 2024, there are 316 commercial 5G networks worldwide; a number that is expected to grow alongside continued significant investments in 5G infrastructure worldwide. This is in comparison to 712 4G LTE networks.

“The wireless technology sector continues to demonstrate its strength and significance through rapid adoption and sustained robust growth globally,” concluded Chris Pearson, President of 5G Americas. “North America remains at the forefront of 5G implementation.”

Image credit: iStock.com/MARHARYTA MARKO