India’s 5G revolution is gaining momentum, with the total number of 5G subscribers projected to rise from 290 million in 2024 to approximately 770 million by 2028, according to a latest Mobile Broadband Index (MBiT) Nokia report. The surge reflects a broader shift in how Indians are consuming data and embracing next-generation connectivity.
5G Data Use Soars to 40GB per Month
As per the report, average 5G data consumption hit 40GB per user per month in December 2024. Overall mobile data usage, combining 4G and 5G, has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 19.5% over the last five years, reaching 27.5GB per user per month in 2024.
The findings also show a three-fold year-on-year increase in 5G traffic, signaling rapid user adoption and growing reliance on high-speed internet.
Fixed Wireless Access Driving High Usage
One of the biggest drivers of 5G data growth is the expansion of Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). According to the report, FWA users now consume over 12 times more data than the average mobile user. The growth is attributed to wider applications of FWA in both residential and business segments, offering an alternative to traditional wired broadband.
India’s 5G Device Base Expands Rapidly
India’s 5G device ecosystem is also evolving at an unprecedented pace. The number of active 5G devices in the country doubled year-on-year to 271 million in 2024, according to Sandeep Saxena, Head of Technology and Solutions, Mobile Networks, Nokia India.
Looking ahead, nearly 90% of smartphones expected to be replaced in 2025 will support 5G, further accelerating adoption across urban and rural markets.
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Outlook: A Rapidly Digitising India
The data underscores India’s rising status as one of the fastest-growing 5G markets globally. With strong device penetration, increasing affordability, and the growing popularity of FWA, India is poised to achieve widespread 5G coverage and unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and digital services.
Nokia’s findings paint a clear picture: India is not only ready for 5G—it is embracing it at full speed.
