A Juniper Research report projects that operators will generate $625 billion from 5G services by 2027.
If this forecast holds, it means that in just four years operators’ 5G revenues will more than double the estimated $310 billion expected in 2023.
This rapid expansion would see 5G making up roughly 80 percent of operators’ service revenue by 2027, delivering a clear return on the substantial investments made in 5G infrastructure.
Juniper also expects eSIM adoption to drive global cellular data traffic to increase by more than 180 percent between 2023 and 2027. As device manufacturers and consumers embrace the flexibility of cellular connectivity, more use cases historically reliant on fixed broadband are likely to shift to mobile networks.
Research author Frederick Savage noted:
“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.”
Looking ahead to 6G, Juniper highlights several technologies that should be prioritised in future network development. The report’s authors recommend placing Non-terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and sub-1THz frequency bands at the centre of early trials.
Given the high investment required for satellite-based NTNs and for acquiring high-frequency spectrum, Juniper advises telecom operators to form partnerships with NTN connectivity specialists to help reduce 6G rollout costs.
A full copy of the report is available from Juniper Research (paywall).
(Photo by Frederik Lipfert on Unsplash)
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