5G network coverage outlook
5G coverage is growing, but varies between regions
Key findings
Total 5G coverage outside mainland China is expected to increase from 45 percent to 50 percent during 2025.
5G mid-band coverage is projected to increase from 40 percent to 45 percent during 2025.
Global 5G population coverage outside of mainland China is predicted to reach around 85 percent at the end of 2031.
There are currently 841 4G networks deployed worldwide, with 347 upgraded to LTE-Advanced and 448 LTE devices supporting Cat-16[1]. By the end of 2025, 4G population coverage outside mainland China is set to reach 90 percent globally and is projected to exceed 95 percent in 2031.
The build-out of 5G continues, with around 360 networks launched worldwide. Global 5G population coverage is expected to reach 60 percent by the end of 2025, providing 5G coverage to an additional 400 million people during the year. Outside mainland China, it is projected to increase from 50 percent in 2025 to about 85 percent in 2031.
5G mid-band, either delivered through time division duplex (TDD) or frequency division duplex (FDD), combines high capacity with good coverage. It is available in most markets, making it an ideal choice for delivering the full 5G experience.
Combined with a low-band FDD 5G carrier, mid-band can provide full coverage and mobility. Good mid-band coverage is also essential for enabling differentiated connectivity and unlocking new revenue opportunities across consumer and enterprise use cases.
Global 5G population coverage, outside of mainland China, will reach 50 percent by the end of 2025.
Large regional variations in 5G coverage
By the end of 2025, 5G mid-band population coverage outside mainland China is projected to reach about 45 percent, but coverage levels vary significantly by region. Africa is expected to have the lowest total and mid-band 5G coverage, reaching about 10 percent by the end of 2025. The Middle East shows somewhat higher levels, with a total coverage of around 25 percent and mid-band coverage of about 20 percent expected.
Latin America, with 30 percent total and 25 percent mid-band 5G coverage, and Asia-Pacific (outside India and mainland China), with around 35 percent total and mid-band coverage, both remain below the global average for 5G population coverage. Extensive total and mid-band 5G coverage has been established across North America, mainland China and India, now covering 90–95 percent of the population in these regions.
Despite these coverage advancements, only around 35 percent of sites globally outside of mainland China have been upgraded to 5G mid-band.
