In 2023, fixed wireless broadband surged ahead, outpacing other forms in subscriber gains, as per an LRG study. This growth mirrors the urgent need for swift and dependable internet, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Fixed wireless’s rise reflects not just technological advancements but also a shift in consumer behavior, favoring more flexible and versatile internet solutions. As traditional broadband methods face competition, fixed wireless is becoming the preferred choice for new subscribers seeking connectivity that matches the pace of their lifestyles. The technology’s ability to provide high-speed internet without extensive infrastructure has made it particularly attractive, leading to its significant impact on the broadband landscape. This trend showcases the ever-evolving demands of internet users and the industry’s response in providing innovative solutions to meet these needs.
Substantial Subscriber Additions
In a market characterized by fierce competition and tech advancements, fixed wireless services have emerged as the frontrunner. The year 2023 witnessed fixed wireless accounting for a whopping 104% of all net broadband additions, an astonishing statistic by any measure. This expansion was significantly propelled by wireless giants T-Mobile and Verizon, who collectively amassed approximately 3.7 million new subscribers. This surge in the user base underscores the market’s recognition of fixed wireless as a robust and scalable broadband solution. New consumer habits, molded by the pandemic, demand internet that caters to a myriad of uses, from remote work to high-definition streaming, all of which fixed wireless has proven capable of providing.
Fixed wireless’s impressive growth streak delineates an ongoing transition in broadband consumption and availability. While the total net broadband gains in 2023 stood firm at around 3.5 million – mirroring the previous year’s augmentation – it is the source of these gains that enlightens the industry’s current trajectory. Cable companies and wireline phone providers have seen a plateauing, if not a slight downturn in subscriber numbers. While these methods of broadband delivery still have a significant share, fixed wireless is carving out a sizable niche, reshaping the competitive landscape of the internet access market.
Market Dynamics and Evolution
The broadband market is witnessing a significant shift with fixed wireless gaining traction among consumers. Top providers now serve roughly 114.7 million subscribers, indicating a healthy and growing industry. Notably, the landscape is shifting as fixed wireless becomes more popular due to its flexibility and scalability. In the last eight years, there has been a remarkable increase in subscribers, with approximately 15.9 million joining in the past four years post-pandemic, surpassing the 10.2 million in the four years before. This uptick reflects the market’s adaptability and the technological shift in consumer preferences toward the advantages of fixed wireless. As fixed wireless continues to gain popularity, it’s poised to play a central role in the evolution of broadband, suggesting a potential reshaping of the market with its continued growth.
