Mobile operators worldwide are continuing to invest heavily in 5G connectivity, expanding its reach for diverse applications and industries. According to the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), 5G technology has seen significant advancements over the past year, including developments in 5G standalone (SA), 5G-Advanced, and 5G RedCap, with further growth expected in 2026 and beyond.
GSA report on 5G standalone deployment 2025
GSA’s latest findings highlight that 647 operators across 191 countries and territories are actively investing in 5G. Of these, 384 operators have launched one or more 3GPP-compliant 5G services, while 358 operators provide live 5G mobile services. Smartphones remain the dominant 5G device, accounting for over half of all devices, followed by modules (10 percent), industrial routers (9 percent), and fixed wireless access (FWA) CPE (9 percent). The industry also witnessed 18 percent year-on-year growth in commercially announced 5G devices.
5G Standalone Networks
The rollout of 5G standalone networks is accelerating globally. GSA has identified 181 operators in 73 countries investing in public 5G standalone networks, with at least 85 operators in 47 countries having launched live services. An additional five operators are in the process of deploying 5G standalone networks.
5G-Advanced Progress
While still in the early stages, 5G-Advanced networks are gaining traction. As of November 2025, seven operators have launched 5G-Advanced networks, and over half of the operators investing in this technology are conducting trials. Asia is leading deployment, with operators in India, Uzbekistan, and Taiwan investing, while China, Macao SAR, and Malaysia have launched commercial 5G-Advanced services.
5G RedCap Adoption
5G RedCap adoption shows strong regional variation. The Asia-Pacific region remains the fastest adopter, while the Middle East has most operators still testing with few commercial launches. In the Americas, the United States has deployed RedCap services, and Canada is testing, with Latin America planning limited deployments (TIM Brasil). Europe has seven operators testing RedCap, with four planning launches. Africa currently has no near-term plans for RedCap deployment.
5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
FWA continues to expand, with Europe accounting for just under half of all 5G FWA services. Globally, there are 352 indoor and outdoor 5G CPE models, with indoor models representing 60 percent, reflecting their popularity. Slovakia has six unique operators offering 5G FWA. Regional distribution of operators providing 5G FWA is 43 percent in Europe, 24 percent in the Middle East and Africa, 18 percent in Asia-Pacific, 8 percent in Latin America, and 7 percent in North America.
Private Mobile Networks and 5G Trials
Private mobile network deployments are increasingly adopting 5G. Currently, 5G is part of 48 percent of GSA customer references, with most deployments in educational institutions and long-term trials. LTE remains the dominant technology, but 5G adoption is steadily growing.
Satellite Direct-to-Cellphone Services
Fourteen operators have launched satellite direct-to-cellphone services in countries including Australia, Canada, and the United States. AST SpaceMobile leads partnerships globally, with 27 publicly announced collaborations across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America, though commercial services are yet to launch.
3G and 2G Network Phase-Out
The phase-out of legacy networks is progressing, with 2025 being a key year for planned shutdowns. Thirty-seven operators are set to phase out 2G, and 39 will retire 3G networks. Over half of these operators plan to upgrade to both LTE and 5G as part of network modernization strategies.
Ian Fogg at GSA Research said the findings reflect an evolving 5G landscape, driven by expanding standalone networks, 5G-Advanced trials, RedCap adoption, and FWA deployment, positioning 2026 as another critical year in global 5G growth.
Baburajan Kizhakedath
