Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is set to revolutionize the world of connectivity, with anticipated growth numbers projecting FWA connections to rise significantly from 160 million in 2024 to an impressive 350 million by 2030. This growth will see FWA representing close to 19% of all fixed broadband connections, as outlined in Ericsson’s Mobility Report. With 80% of these connections expected to utilize 5G technology, the remaining 20% will predominantly depend on 4G, which is projected to peak in 2026. The surge in FWA connections signifies a notable shift in the approach to broadband connectivity, especially in underserved regions.
Regional Variations in FWA Growth
Asia-Pacific Leading the Charge
The Asia-Pacific region is set to dominate the global growth in Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) connections, increasing its share from 40% in 2024 to a projected 48% by 2030. Several factors contribute to this growth, including large populations, rising internet penetration, and significant investments in telecommunications infrastructure. Countries like India, which saw nearly 3 million 5G FWA connections shortly after launch, illustrate the region’s rapid adoption of this technology. As more consumers and businesses seek robust and reliable internet solutions, FWA offers a viable alternative to traditional fixed-line broadband.
The exponential rise in FWA connections in the Asia-Pacific can be attributed to the region’s efforts to bridge the digital divide, ensuring remote and rural areas have access to high-speed internet. Governments and service providers are collaborating to roll out FWA services swiftly, leveraging the latest advances in 5G technology. This trend is further backed by the region’s dynamic economic growth, which drives demand for better connectivity. As a result, by the end of 2024, it is projected that FWA will account for a quarter of global mobile data traffic, highlighting its growing importance.
Europe’s Expansion and U.S. Aspirations
Over the past year, Europe has accounted for an impressive 73% of new 5G FWA launches globally. This trend showcases the continent’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies and enhancing broadband connectivity for its residents. In parallel, two major U.S. service providers have ambitious goals to reach 20-21 million 5G FWA connections by 2028, following their early success in surpassing previous targets of 11-13 million connections. The push towards expanding FWA services in Europe and the U.S. highlights the ongoing global race to provide superior internet access.
In Europe, significant investments are being made in FWA infrastructure, reflecting the region’s dedication to future-proofing its broadband networks. The move towards 5G FWA is expected to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and improve the quality of life for residents. Similarly, in the U.S., the rapid expansion of 5G FWA services is part of a broader strategy to enhance digital infrastructure and support the growing demand for high-speed connectivity. As more providers launch FWA services, consumers will benefit from increased competition and better service offerings.
The Role of Service Providers and Tariff Plans
Growing Provider Participation
Globally, the number of mobile service providers offering Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services has risen to 79%. Out of these, 131 operators are providing FWA over 5G networks, representing 54% of all FWA providers. This increasing participation among service providers underlines the widespread recognition of FWA’s potential to deliver robust internet connectivity, particularly in areas where conventional broadband solutions may be inadequate. The addition of more providers also means a more competitive market, which can lead to better services and more attractive pricing for consumers.
The growing adoption of FWA services by providers is driven by the demand for high-speed internet, as well as advancements in technology that make FWA a more viable option. Speed-based tariff plans, now offered by 43% of providers (up from 30% the previous year), are becoming increasingly popular. These plans allow consumers to select a service package that aligns with their specific needs, whether for personal use or business. By offering tailored solutions, providers can cater to diverse customer segments, ultimately driving the growth of FWA connections worldwide.
Advancements in Infrastructure
On the infrastructure front, advancements in Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) are accelerating, with a 23% increase expected in customer premises equipment (CPE) shipments, reaching 37 million units in 2024. Providers offering speed-based plans are more likely to provide advanced CPE options that enhance consumer experiences and network efficiency. Innovations in CPE technology, such as improved antennas and signal processing, enable users to achieve better performance and reliability, even in challenging environments. This evolution in infrastructure is a critical component of the overall growth of FWA services.
In regions like Europe and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), there has been significant uptake in 5G FWA services, with 94% of operators in the GCC now offering these services. The high adoption rate in these areas reflects strong consumer demand, supportive regulatory environments, and substantial investments in network infrastructure. By deploying advanced FWA technology, providers in these regions can deliver high-speed internet to underserved areas, bridging the digital divide and fostering economic development. The continuous innovation and expansion of FWA infrastructure are poised to further drive its global adoption.
The Global Impact of 5G Subscriptions
Rapid Growth and Projections
As of the end of the third quarter, global 5G subscriptions had reached 2.1 billion, marking an increase of 163 million during the quarter. This rapid growth underscores the accelerating adoption of 5G technology across the globe. By the end of the year, 5G subscriptions are expected to nearly hit 2.3 billion, accounting for over a quarter of all mobile subscriptions. This widespread uptake of 5G is a testament to its superior performance, lower latency, and higher capacity compared to previous generations of mobile technology. The trend is anticipated to continue as more countries deploy their 5G networks.
Projections indicate that 5G will become the dominant mobile access technology by 2027, overtaking 4G a year earlier than previously expected. By 2030, it is forecasted that 5G subscriptions will reach 6.3 billion, representing 67% of all mobile subscriptions. This growth is driven by the increasing availability of 5G-enabled devices, the expansion of network coverage, and the demand for high-speed data services. As 5G becomes more prevalent, it will enable new use cases and applications, further transforming industries and enhancing everyday life.
The Broader Implications of 5G FWA Adoption
Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) is poised to transform the connectivity landscape, with anticipated growth forecasting a significant rise in FWA connections from 160 million in 2024 to a staggering 350 million by 2030. According to Ericsson’s Mobility Report, FWA will account for nearly 19% of all fixed broadband connections by then. Notably, 80% of these connections are expected to operate on 5G technology, while the remaining 20% will primarily utilize 4G, which is predicted to reach its peak in 2026. The dramatic increase in FWA connections indicates a major shift in broadband connectivity, addressing underserved regions with faster and more reliable internet solutions. This surge not only highlights the technological advances in wireless connectivity but also underscores the growing demand for high-speed internet, particularly in areas that have historically lacked robust broadband infrastructure. FWA’s rise promises to bridge the digital divide, providing essential internet access and boosting economic prospects in these regions.
