Early movers pursue performance-based business models: Ericsson Mobility Report

The analysis is included among a wealth of statistical network insights in the November 2024 edition of the Ericsson Mobility Report, which extends the forecast period until the end of 2030.

The areas with 5G Standalone (5G SA) around the world. Photo: Ericsson

According to the report, the rate of mobile network traffic data is expected to grow almost three-fold by the end of 2030 from present day numbers.

The report highlights how early mover service providers are already offering value delivery models based on differentiated connectivity – guaranteed uninterrupted high-end connectivity when you need it most – to create new monetisation and growth opportunities.

Of about 320 CSPs currently offering commercial 5G services, less than 20 per cent are 5G SA. The densification of mid-band and 5G SA sites is considered a key catalyst to capitalise on the full potential of 5G, including programmable and intelligent network capabilities. 5G mid-band is currently deployed at only about 30 per cent of sites globally. Almost 60 per cent of the 6.3 billion global 5G subscriptions forecast by the end of 2030 are expected to be 5G Standalone subscriptions.

On global mobile data traffic, 5G networks are expected to carry about 80 per cent of total mobile data traffic by the end of 2030 – compared to 34 per cent by the end of 2024.

Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) continues to grow in popularity globally as the second largest 5G use case after enhanced Mobile Broadband.

In four out of six regions, more than 80 per cent of CSPs now offer FWA. The number of FWA service providers offering speed-based tariff plans – with downlink and uplink data parameters similar to cable or fibre offerings – has increased from 30 per cent to 43 per cent in the last year alone.

Of the 350 million projected global FWA connections by the end of 2030, almost 80 per cent are forecast to be over 5G.

In the Southeast Asia and Oceania region, 5G subscriptions are predicted to reach around 680 million by the end of the forecast period. In Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand, growth in the 5G subscriber base is driven by increased network coverage, greater awareness of 5G, the growing affordability of 5G devices, and the continued focus by service providers on promotional plans.

5G was launched commercially in Vietnam in October 2024. Mature 5G markets such as Australia and Singapore continue to leverage advanced 5G capabilities to deliver new services and use cases. Customised 5G services for businesses are arriving in Australia, as service providers conduct trials and offer tailored connectivity solutions. Mobile data traffic per smartphone user in Southeast Asia is expected to grow from 19GB/month in 2024 to 39 GB/month by 2030.

Rita Mokbel, head of Ericsson Vietnam. Photo: Ericsson

Rita Mokbel, head of Ericsson Vietnam, states, “The launch of 5G services in Vietnam will transform consumer experiences and drive the digitalisation of enterprises. Vietnam has identified digital transformation as a top priority and growth driver for the country and at Ericsson, we are excited to be part of the country’s 5G journey together with our strategic partners, Viettel and VNPT.”

The report also addresses how AI, including Generative AI applications – already integrated across smartphones, laptops, watches, and FWA products – could impact uplink and downlink network traffic, driving potential mobile traffic growth beyond current baseline predictions.

Other featured report statistics include the projection that global 5G subscriptions are expected to reach almost 2.3 billion by the end of 2024, amounting to 25 per cent of all global mobile subscriptions. 5G subscription numbers are expected to overtake the global number of 4G subscriptions during 2027.

The first 6G deployments are expected in 2030, building on and scaling the capabilities of 5G SA and 5G Advanced.

Ericsson launches project to develop young telecom talent Ericsson, a global leader in telecommunications, on October 8 announced the launch of the EricssonEdge Academia Programme that aims to revolutionise early career talent development in the telecommunications sector across Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India.

Ericsson and VNPT collaborate on 5G in Vietnam Ericsson and VNPT, one of Vietnam's leading telecommunications operators, officially announced on October 10 their partnership to deploy 5G technology.

Viettel extends Ericsson partnership through major 5G network award Viettel has strengthened its long-term partnership with Ericsson through the award of the majority of its nationwide 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) deployment.

Automating ports with 5G There are around 2,000 ports in the world, and they’re vital for a well-functioning global economy. The shipping industry has experienced significant growth, but to accommodate future traffic, ports will need to become more efficient and automated.

PM Pham Minh Chinh meets Ericsson CEO Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh gave a reception in Hanoi on November 25 for Borje Ekholm, President and CEO of Ericsson who is paying a working visit to Vietnam.