The global wireless telecommunications industry achieved a historic milestone in 2024, with 5G connections surpassing 2.25 billion worldwide, marking a significant leap in the technology’s adoption. This growth demonstrates 5G’s rapid expansion, outpacing previous wireless generations. According to 5G Americas and Omdia, 5G adoption is happening four times faster than 4G LTE did during its initial rollout, which had just reached 500 million connections by the end of 2014.
By the end of 2024, the global mobile ecosystem is expected to reach 1.5 wireless connections per person, up from one connection per person in 2014. This rapid growth underscores the transformative impact of 5G technology. Looking ahead, forecasts predict 8.3 billion 5G connections by 2029, representing 59% of all global wireless technologies. Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) experienced unprecedented expansion, adding 438 million new connections in 2024, bringing the global total to 3.6 billion IoT devices.
“Reaching 2.25 billion 5G connections globally highlights how quickly this technology is transforming the world,” said Viet Nguyen, President of 5G Americas. “North America’s leadership is clear, with 77% of the population covered by 5G, and the region continues to set the pace in network deployment, innovation, and use cases.”
North America continues to lead globally in 5G adoption, reaching 289 million connections by the end of 2024—an impressive 67% year-over-year increase from 196 million in 2023. By comparison, 4G LTE adoption in North America had only reached 47% coverage at a similar stage in 2014. In addition to high adoption rates, North America is the first region to achieve parity between the number of commercial 5G and 4G LTE networks, highlighting its rapid network deployment.
Latin America also saw a surge in 5G adoption, doubling its 5G connections in one year to 76 million by the end of 2024. However, 4G LTE still dominates the region with 593 million users, representing 74% of all wireless connections.
Globally, the number of 5G and 4G LTE networks continues to grow. As of March 2025, there are 354 commercial 5G networks worldwide, with North America leading the way with 18 5G networks. The number of 4G LTE networks worldwide stands at 706, with 134 of those located in Latin America and the Caribbean.
This impressive growth in 5G connectivity sets a strong foundation for the future of digital transformation, with North America leading in deployment and Latin America quickly following suit in expanding its 5G capabilities.
