Generative AI to Lead Changes in Traffic Characteristics.. 29 Billion 5G Subscribers Expected This Year

It has been found that the spread of generative artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a key factor in changing traffic structures. It is also predicted that the number of 5th generation (5G) mobile communication subscribers will reach approximately 2.9 billion worldwide by the end of this year. 
Global telecommunications equipment company Ericsson held a domestic press conference at the HSBC Building in Jung-gu, Seoul on the 15th and introduced the 'June 2025 Ericsson Mobility Report' containing this information. This report focused on analyzing the impact of the evolution of generative AI and 5G networks on communication infrastructure and data traffic structures.
First, the report predicted that the number of 5G subscribers will reach approximately 2.9 billion worldwide by the end of this year. This figure corresponds to about one-third of all mobile subscribers. It further predicted that the number of 5G subscriptions will surpass 6.3 billion by 2030.
As of the first quarter of this year, global mobile network data traffic increased by 19% compared to the same period last year, and it was analyzed that this traffic volume will more than double by 2030. In particular, as of the end of last year, 5G networks handled 35% of global mobile data, and it is predicted that this proportion will reach 80% by the end of 2030. 
Additionally, the report noted that current generative AI-related traffic shows a downlink ratio of 74% and an uplink ratio of 26%, highlighting the increasing importance of uplink traffic compared to the past. It is particularly predicted that the emergence of generative AI smartphones, extended reality (XR) devices, and new media formats will lead changes in traffic characteristics in the future.
Ericsson also presented cases of AI-based network innovation. Through its AI-based predictive cell energy management solution 'PCEM', Ericsson became the first in the world to obtain level 4 certification for autonomous network scenarios from the TM Forum, proving the potential for AI utilization in energy saving and efficient operation. Along with this, next-generation RAN Compute enables various AI applications on RAN, simultaneously enhancing network efficiency and scalability.
The development potential of 5G Standalone (SA) networks is also one of the core topics of this report. Ericsson analyzed that 5G SA is emerging as a key platform that enables the transition to a service-centered revenue model beyond a simple traffic delivery infrastructure. By providing customized connectivity and differentiated services to a diverse range of customers, including consumers, businesses, and public institutions, 5G SA is opening new revenue generation opportunities for telecom operators. The report presents numerous specific use cases such as broadcasting and video production, POS systems, event and stadium operations, real-time gaming, fixed wireless access (FWA), virtual private networks, and enterprise productivity enhancement.
Eric Ekuden, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Ericsson, stated, "The 5G ecosystem is now at an inflection point of technological innovation," adding, "The advancement of 5G SA and the evolution of devices are intertwined, leading to the emergence of new connectivity and service models." He continued, "Many telecom operators are recognizing the true potential of 5G and are focusing on securing next-generation revenue models beyond data plans, and the continuous expansion of 5G SA infrastructure is essential to achieve this."

solidkjy@fnnews.com Ku Ja-yun Reporter