The Rising Value of 5G Fixed Wireless Access for Service Providers in 2025

The Growth of 5G Fixed Wireless Access in 2025

The June 2025 Ericsson Mobility Report (EMR) reveals significant advancements in Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and its growing popularity among communication service providers (CSPs) worldwide. This growth can be primarily attributed to the innovative speed-based monetization strategies that 5G technology allows.

Increasing Adoption and Competitive Edge

According to the report, over 80% of global CSPs are now offering FWA services, with the most explosive growth noted among those incorporating 5G capabilities. As of June 2025, an impressive 51% of CSPs with FWA offerings have introduced speed-based plans, a notable increase from 40% just a year ago. Regions like North America are leading this charge, with Europe and the Middle East also gaining ground.

These enhancements allow service providers to create a diverse range of subscription packages, tailored to various data speeds and entertainment options, thus resembling the offerings associated with traditional cable or fiber services. This approach significantly boosts monetization opportunities compared to earlier iterations of FWA.

Future Projections and Market Impact

The EMR forecasts that FWA will account for over 35% of new fixed broadband connections, projecting an increase to around 350 million connections by 2030. Additionally, the report estimates that 5G subscriptions will surge to over 2.9 billion by the end of 2025, representing roughly one-third of all mobile subscriptions globally. By 2030, this number is expected to rise to approximately 6.3 billion.

Traffic and Infrastructure Development

In terms of data traffic, mobile network usage increased by 19% from Q1 2024 to the same period in 2025. Although the growth rate is showing signs of decline year-on-year, the net volume of mobile data traffic is projected to more than double by the end of 2030. By the end of 2024, 5G networks were already managing 35% of global mobile traffic, with an expectation to surpass 80% by the close of the decade.

Europe's 5G mid-band coverage reached 50% of the population by the end of 2024, aligning with global averages. However, certain regions, particularly North America and India, have outperformed, achieving 90% and 95% coverage, respectively.

Opportunities for Service Providers

The June 2025 EMR emphasizes the transformative potential of 5G Standalone (5G SA) networks and 5G Advanced technologies, highlighting their capacity to offer commercial advantages to CSPs that transcend simple data sales. These innovations encourage service providers to explore new revenue streams through differentiated connectivity for consumers, enterprises, and public authorities. Various applications include video production for events, gaming, integrated point-of-sale systems, and fixed wireless access.

Insights and Case Studies

Alongside the statistical analysis, the report includes detailed articles discussing the impact of generative AI on future mobile network traffic and insights from collaborations with industry leaders like BT Group. A case study examines the successful launch of 5G SA networks in the UK, enhancing connectivity for over 28 million people by early 2025. Another article profiles Sony’s ongoing innovations to enhance entertainment experiences through mobile networks.

Ericsson's Senior Vice President and CTO Erik Ekudden states that, "We are approaching a crucial point where the 5G ecosystem is prepared to drive a new wave of innovation. The advances in 5G standalone networks and compatible devices are set to unlock significant opportunities for creative connectivity.

To maximize 5G's potential, continuous investment in building mid-band sites and deploying 5G SA networks is critical. These advancements are key catalysts for novel business growth avenues within the tech ecosystem.

If you wish to learn more, Ericsson will be hosting online seminars regarding the findings of the EMR at 09:00 and 18:00 CEST on June 24. Register to participate and gain further insights into the future of mobile networks.

For the complete report, visit the Ericsson website for detailed findings and projections.

This comprehensive analysis underscores not only the technological transformation ushered in by 5G but also its strategic importance in redefining the communication landscape.