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Global mobile data traffic forecast

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Global mobile data traffic is expected to reach 58 exabytes (EB) per month by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 22 percent from 2023 to 2028, according to a new forecast from Ericsson. This growth will be driven by a number of factors, including the increasing demand for video content, the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), and the deployment of new 5G networks.

Opens in a new windowwww.juniperresearch.comGlobal Mobile Data Traffic Forecast by Ericsson, 20232028

The forecast also predicts that the average monthly data consumption per smartphone will reach 25 gigabytes (GB) by 2028, up from 13 GB in 2023. This growth will be driven by the increasing popularity of video streaming and the adoption of new 5G devices.

In terms of regions, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region for mobile data traffic, with a CAGR of 30 percent from 2023 to 2028. This growth will be driven by the large and growing populations in Asia Pacific, as well as the rapid adoption of smartphones and mobile internet in the region.

North America and Europe are also expected to see significant growth in mobile data traffic, with CAGRs of 18 percent and 16 percent, respectively. This growth will be driven by the increasing demand for fixed wireless access (FWA), which is using 5G networks to provide home broadband internet access.

The growth in mobile data traffic will have a number of implications for the telecommunications industry. Operators will need to invest in new network infrastructure to handle the increased demand for data. They will also need to develop new pricing models and data plans to meet the needs of consumers.

Overall, the global mobile data traffic forecast is a positive sign for the telecommunications industry. The growth in mobile data traffic is expected to drive revenue growth and investment in new network infrastructure. However, operators will need to adapt their business models to meet the changing needs of consumers.

Here are some additional key takeaways from the Ericsson forecast:

  • Video traffic is expected to account for 80 percent of all mobile data traffic by 2028.
  • The IoT is expected to generate 18 percent of all mobile data traffic by 2028.
  • 5G networks are expected to carry 60 percent of all mobile data traffic by 2028.