Ericsson Mobility Report: 5G Subscriptions Top Three Billion as Uplink Gains Momentum
Global 5G subscriptions reached 3.1 billion in early 2026, with projections suggesting a doubling by 2031. The report highlights the rise of 5G Standalone networks and Fixed Wireless Access as key drivers for future connectivity.
Why it matters
The rapid expansion of 5G infrastructure is critical for the future of digital transformation, AI applications, and global data traffic management.
Global 5G subscriptions surpassed 3 billion in the first quarter of 2026, reaching 3.1 billion , according to the latest Ericsson Mobility Report. The report forecasts this number will more than double to 6.4 billion by 2031 , with 5G expected to carry 85% of all mobile data traffic by then. To date, around 390 service providers have launched commercial 5G services, including more than 90 offering 5G Standalone (SA) networks.
The article summarizes industry data and technological trends objectively.
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