Ericsson reports 5G global subscriptions exceed 3 billion

The Ericsson Mobility Report 2026 highlights the rapid maturation of 5G technology and the industry's shift toward 6G development. Global 5G subscriptions surpassed 3 billion in the first quarter of 2026, following the addition of approximately 660 million new subscribers throughout 2025. 5G currently handles roughly half of the world's mobile data traffic.

Regional adoption rates vary, with North America leading at 79% 5G penetration, followed by Northeast Asia (60%), Western Europe (54%), and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (53%). Ericsson projects that by the end of 2031, 5G subscriptions will reach 6.4 billion, representing two-thirds of all global mobile subscriptions.

Greece has demonstrated significant progress in adopting these technologies, achieving high levels of population coverage across the country. According to Giorgos Pappas, head of Ericsson Greece, the nation has moved quickly to implement new network technologies.