5G technology is rapidly gaining ground in North America, now accounting for 34% of all cellular connections. This surge is driven significantly by the growth of Internet of Things (IoT) subscriptions. As 5G continues to expand, operators are enhancing networks by introducing mid-band spectrum and standalone 5G to support advanced capabilities such as network slicing. In the second quarter of 2024 alone, North America added 23 million 5G connections, reflecting an 11% quarter-over-quarter increase. This momentum is expected to persist, with 5G connections projected to reach 761 million by 2029. Globally, 5G adoption mirrors this trend, with 192 million new connections in 2024, contributing to a total of 2.1 billion worldwide.
5G and IoT Drive North American Growth
The rise of 5G in North America has been heavily influenced by the growing demand for IoT devices. IoT subscriptions globally now stand at 3.4 billion and are forecasted to reach 5.2 billion by 2029. The transition from 4G to 5G-enabled devices is improving network efficiency, energy profiles, and introducing advanced services like 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability), which supports IoT growth.
Expanding 5G Networks to Meet Future Demands
With 17 5G deployments across North America and 329 globally, operators are pushing the boundaries of network capabilities. They continue to roll out mid-band spectrum and standalone 5G, allowing for advanced features like network slicing, which optimizes network performance for different use cases. In addition, the shift to 5G standalone architecture enables operators to unlock new services crucial for IoT applications.
IoT Growth and Future Challenges
The increasing number of IoT devices presents both opportunities and challenges. By 2030, it’s estimated that 25 billion IoT devices will be in use, raising concerns about security. In response, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) introduced the Trust Mark program to enhance consumer protection in IoT environments. The need for robust security measures has become critical as attacks on IoT devices surged to over 1.5 billion in the first half of 2021.
As North America continues to embrace 5G technology, its role in transforming industries through IoT is undeniable. By 2029, 5G is expected to dominate the cellular landscape, driven by a surge in IoT subscriptions, improved network capabilities, and enhanced security measures.
Source: telecompetitor.com
