Petroc Taylor
Research expert covering global developments in the use of data
5G in Europe - Statistics & Facts
Europe’s 5G revolution is well underway. From artificial intelligence (AI) to the internet of things (IoT), the high bandwidth and low latency offered by 5G is powering a range of exciting technological developments across the continent. The critical importance of 5G adoption for digital transformation has been emphasized by both governments and regulators, with the European Union seeking to drive cross border collaboration in the deployment of 5G network infrastructure. The EU Commission’s 5G action plan has set a 2030 target for operators to bring 5G mobile networks to all populated areas, while many non-EU nations have set similar targets for the coming decade.
5G adoption is set to surge in Central and Eastern Europe
More than a third of all European mobile data connections currently use 5G networks, placing Europe third in 5G adoption behind North America and China. The United Kingdom and Germany lead the way among the continent’s four largest economies, with both on track to exceed 90 percent adoption by the end of the decade. Meanwhile, Central and Eastern Europe is forecast to see the strongest growth in 5G connections over the coming years, with an expected growth rate far exceeding that of Western Europe.Bulgaria leads the pack in 5G download speeds
Various barriers stand in the way of consumer adoption of 5G, with the premium placed on 5G mobile contracts a major factor. In addition, many European mobile users remain locked out of 5G by a lack of coverage in their local area. Population coverage in the EU-27 sits at 89 percent, reaching 100 percent in Cyprus, Denmark, Malta, and the Netherlands, but remaining below 50 percent in both Romania and Belgium. Moreover, not all 5G networks are of equal quality, with 5G standalone networks offering a significant boost in network quality when compared to non-standalone infrastructure.The EU may miss its 2030 target without additional investment
While the EU has recognized the importance of 5G infrastructure in reaping the benefits of the AI revolution, it may fall behind competing markets if further investment isn’t secured. The European Commission has warned that its 2030 target may be missed without additional commitments from both governments and network operators, highlighting the urgent need for cross border collaboration.
