Driven by the rapid evolution of 5G technology, Ericsson‘s recent report highlights the emerging revenue potential of 5G primarily through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). This technology offers enhanced monetization options, especially through speed-based tariff plans that are transforming communication for service providers globally.
Ericsson’s Mobility Report, released this June, reveals significant findings. Approximately 80% of Communication Service Providers (CSPs) now incorporate FWA technology in their offerings. A notable increase in speed-based plans has been observed, rising to 51% in 2025 from 40% the previous year. The growth owes much to adoption in North America and expanding markets like Europe and the Middle East.
FWA’s appeal lies in its ability to deliver connectivity where traditional wired infrastructure is either lacking or economically unfeasible. It is projected to constitute over 35% of new fixed broadband connections by 2030, equating to about 350 million global connections. This trend aligns with broader 5G adoption, predicted to surpass 2.9 billion subscriptions by the end of 2025.
Mobile data usage is on the rise, registering a 19% increase year over year. It is anticipated to more than double by 2030, with 5G expected to carry 80% of global mobile data traffic. Ericsson’s report indicates North America leads in 5G penetration, with 71% adoption. Other regions like North East Asia, GCC countries, and Western Europe follow. By 2027, 5G is expected to become the dominant mobile access technology, overtaking 4G.
The report underscores 5G’s commercial potential, encouraging service providers to explore new opportunities. These range from broadcasting applications and gaming to virtual private networks and enterprise productivity enhancements. More than 340 service providers have already launched commercial 5G services.
Although impressive, the mid-band 5G coverage in Europe still trails behind the major strides seen in North America and India. By the end of 2024, European coverage topped 50%, compared to 90% in North America and India’s 95%.