Growth of Mobile Internet: eSIM, 5G and the Future

The evolution of global connectivity has entered a new era. While fixed-line subscriptions are seeing minimal growth, mobile broadband has become the dominant method of access, now representing over 98% of active connections worldwide. This shift is fuelled by innovations like eSIM, the expansion of 5G networks, and the anticipation of future technologies such as 6G. These advancements are not only changing the speed of access but also redefining how people interact, work, and connect across borders.

The Rise of eSIM Technology

eSIM has quickly moved from being a premium feature to a standard in 2025. Its digital nature allows users to activate and switch mobile operators without relying on physical cards. This innovation provides unmatched flexibility for those who travel frequently, businesses with remote teams, and individuals who prefer the simplicity of managing multiple networks on one device.

Environmental benefits are also significant. With no need for mass production of physical SIM cards, eSIM reduces plastic waste and logistics costs. Operators worldwide now support instant activation through apps, making the onboarding process seamless. By 2025, more than 60% of new smartphones are eSIM-only devices.

For industries, eSIM opens doors to large-scale Internet of Things (IoT) adoption. Smartwatches, vehicles, and connected appliances rely on it for streamlined integration, creating opportunities for new digital services and business models.

Impact of eSIM on the Telecom Industry

Telecom providers are adapting to this shift by competing less on distribution and more on service innovation. With the removal of physical limitations, companies focus on flexible tariffs, data-driven bundles, and specialised contracts for gaming or streaming enthusiasts. This has increased competition, ultimately benefiting end users.

Global businesses also see operational advantages. Instead of issuing local SIM cards to employees, eSIM profiles can be managed remotely. This reduces costs, improves security, and ensures teams remain connected regardless of their location.

Governments and regulators are introducing frameworks to safeguard consumer rights, ensuring operator switching is transparent, accessible, and free from unfair restrictions. This regulation is key to maintaining healthy competition in the market.

5G Expansion and Its Role

By 2025, 5G has expanded to cover over 70% of the world’s population, with average download speeds surpassing 500 Mbps in urban centres. Low latency enables critical applications such as telemedicine, autonomous driving tests, and real-time augmented reality. The impact of 5G extends far beyond faster browsing—it underpins the infrastructure of smart cities and future digital economies.

A common debate is whether 5G can fully replace home WiFi. In rural areas and developing markets, 5G already acts as the primary broadband connection. With unlimited or high-capacity data plans, many households now rely on 5G routers instead of fibre installations.

Still, WiFi maintains advantages in stability and cost-effectiveness for heavy users. Hybrid models are increasingly popular, where households combine 5G with fixed-line broadband to ensure both speed and reliability.

5G Business Models and Consumer Benefits

Operators are shifting towards more creative tariff models. Data packages now include specialised options for cloud gaming, streaming services, or enterprise applications. Some telecoms even offer family plans combining multiple devices under one subscription, reflecting the growing demand for shared digital lifestyles.

Enterprises benefit greatly from private 5G networks, enabling secure connections across large campuses, factories, and logistics hubs. This ensures low latency and stable communication for critical operations.

For consumers, the benefits are immediate: faster downloads, smoother video calls, and seamless multi-device usage. The flexibility of 5G subscriptions allows customers to select plans that fit their digital habits more precisely than ever before.

The Future: Towards 6G and Beyond

While 5G is still expanding, discussions about 6G are already well underway. Early projections suggest that 6G could achieve speeds of up to 1 Tbps, with applications including holographic communication, advanced robotics, and deeper integration with artificial intelligence systems.

Research and trials are ongoing in countries like South Korea, Japan, and Finland, with the first commercial deployments expected in the early 2030s. Unlike previous generations, 6G is being designed not just for faster data but for intelligent networking that adapts to user needs in real time.

Meanwhile, the rise of satellite internet systems such as Starlink complements mobile connectivity, particularly in remote regions. The combination of terrestrial 5G and satellite networks promises near-universal access, closing the digital divide across the globe.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite the excitement, challenges remain. Infrastructure investments are massive, requiring cooperation between governments, telecoms, and technology providers. Spectrum allocation, cybersecurity, and environmental concerns are among the pressing issues.

At the same time, the opportunities are vast. From enabling autonomous transport systems to supporting advanced telemedicine, the next generation of connectivity could transform industries and societies at large. For businesses, it means access to new markets and services; for individuals, it means greater convenience and inclusivity.

The growth of mobile internet is not slowing down. With eSIM simplifying access, 5G accelerating adoption, and 6G on the horizon, the future of global connectivity is dynamic, intelligent, and increasingly accessible to all.