The world is moving fast, and so is mobile technology. 5G is no longer a future dream—it is here, and millions of people are using it daily. But how many 5G phones are actually in use right now? What does the adoption rate look like across different countries? This article dives deep into the numbers, breaking down the statistics and explaining what they mean for consumers, businesses, and the future of connectivity.
1. As of 2024, there are over 1.5 billion 5G smartphones in use worldwide
5G adoption has surged in the past few years. In 2020, the number of 5G-enabled devices was just a fraction of what it is today.
Now, in 2024, more than 1.5 billion people are using 5G smartphones, making it one of the fastest-growing technology adoptions in history.
This rapid adoption is fueled by several factors. First, telecom companies have been aggressively rolling out 5G networks worldwide. Second, smartphone manufacturers have made 5G support a standard feature in most new models, even budget-friendly ones.
Third, consumers are upgrading their phones faster than ever to take advantage of faster internet speeds and lower latency.
If you are considering a 5G phone, now is a great time to make the switch. Prices have dropped, and network coverage is much broader than it was a few years ago. The future of mobile connectivity is here, and staying ahead of the curve ensures you get the best performance possible.
2. China leads global 5G adoption, with over 750 million 5G devices in use
China is far ahead when it comes to 5G adoption. More than 750 million people in the country are using 5G-enabled smartphones, accounting for nearly half of the global total.
This dominance is largely due to government support, infrastructure investments, and strong consumer demand.
The Chinese government has made 5G deployment a national priority, helping telecom companies build a vast network of 5G towers. In major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, 5G coverage is nearly universal.
For businesses, China’s strong 5G market means there are great opportunities to develop apps, services, and content that take advantage of ultra-fast mobile speeds.
For consumers, it means better performance in streaming, gaming, and smart applications. If you live in China and haven’t upgraded yet, now might be the time to join the 5G revolution.
3. The United States has more than 250 million active 5G smartphones
The United States is also a key player in the 5G smartphone market. With over 250 million active 5G devices, American consumers are embracing the technology at a rapid pace.
One reason for this growth is the aggressive marketing push by major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. These companies have expanded their 5G networks and offered incentives like free phone upgrades and discounted data plans.
Another factor is the high demand for faster internet speeds, especially as remote work and mobile gaming continue to grow.
If you are in the U.S. and still using a 4G phone, upgrading to a 5G device could significantly improve your browsing and streaming experience. Many affordable 5G options are available, making it easier than ever to make the switch.
4. South Korea has the highest 5G penetration rate, with over 95% of smartphone users on 5G
South Korea has always been a leader in technology, and 5G is no exception. Over 95% of smartphone users in the country are now on 5G, making it the most advanced market in terms of penetration rate.
The country’s success comes from a combination of factors: early investment in infrastructure, a tech-savvy population, and strong government support.
South Korea was one of the first countries to launch nationwide 5G services in 2019, and its telecom providers continue to push innovation with ultra-fast speeds and new applications.
If you live in South Korea, you are already experiencing some of the best 5G services in the world. Businesses should look to South Korea for insights into how 5G can transform industries like entertainment, healthcare, and smart cities.
5. India has seen rapid 5G growth, with over 150 million 5G smartphone users in 2024
India was a bit late to the 5G game, but it has quickly caught up. Just a couple of years ago, 5G was not even available in the country. Now, over 150 million Indians are using 5G smartphones.
The launch of 5G services by telecom giants like Jio and Airtel has made high-speed mobile internet accessible to millions. With smartphone prices dropping and network expansion accelerating, the number of 5G users in India is expected to skyrocket in the coming years.
For consumers, this means better internet speeds, smoother video streaming, and improved online gaming experiences. For businesses, it opens doors for new tech-driven opportunities, from AI-powered apps to smart infrastructure projects.
6. Europe has over 300 million 5G smartphone users across all major countries
Europe has been steadily growing its 5G market, with over 300 million users spread across various countries. Nations like Germany, the UK, France, and Italy have been leading the way in 5G adoption.
Unlike in Asia, where state-driven initiatives have pushed 5G adoption, Europe’s growth has been primarily market-driven. Mobile operators have focused on rolling out networks strategically, covering major cities first before expanding to rural areas.
Consumers in Europe are benefiting from improved network speeds and reliability, while businesses are leveraging 5G for applications like smart factories and IoT-enabled logistics. If you are in Europe, checking your carrier’s 5G coverage map can help you decide if it’s time to upgrade to a 5G phone.
7. Over 70% of smartphones shipped globally in 2024 are 5G-enabled
A significant shift has occurred in the smartphone industry. In 2024, over 70% of all new smartphones sold worldwide are 5G-capable. This shows how manufacturers are making 5G the new standard rather than a premium feature.
Companies like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi have stopped releasing new 4G-only models in most markets. Even budget-friendly devices now come with 5G, making it accessible to a broader audience.
For consumers, this means there is no need to worry about whether your next phone will support 5G—it most likely will. If you are holding onto an older 4G device, upgrading will ensure you are ready for the future of mobile connectivity.
8. The global 5G smartphone market is expected to exceed 2 billion devices by 2025
Looking ahead, the number of 5G smartphones in use will continue to climb. By 2025, the global 5G smartphone market is expected to surpass 2 billion devices.
This rapid growth will be driven by expanding network coverage, lower device costs, and increasing demand for faster internet. Countries that are currently lagging in 5G adoption, such as those in Africa and parts of Latin America, will see the most significant jumps in new users.
For businesses, this means an expanding audience for 5G-powered applications and services. If you are in the mobile app or telecom industry, planning for this growth will be crucial to staying competitive.
9. Apple and Samsung are the leading 5G smartphone brands, accounting for over 50% of the market
When it comes to 5G smartphones, two brands dominate—Apple and Samsung. Together, they control over 50% of the global 5G smartphone market.
Apple’s 5G journey began with the iPhone 12, and every iPhone since then has supported 5G. Samsung, on the other hand, has been leading in Android’s 5G space, offering a range of models across different price points.
If you are in the market for a 5G smartphone, choosing between these two brands largely comes down to preference. Both offer high-performance devices, strong software support, and a wide selection of models.
10. iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G smartphone, released in 2020
Apple entered the 5G era in October 2020 with the launch of the iPhone 12.
While many Android manufacturers had already released 5G models by then, Apple’s adoption of 5G was a major turning point in the industry.
The release of the iPhone 12 marked a global shift towards 5G. Millions of users who had been waiting for Apple to implement the technology finally upgraded their devices. This led to a massive surge in 5G network usage, especially in North America and Europe.
If you are still using an older iPhone model, upgrading to a newer 5G-capable iPhone will provide faster browsing, better streaming, and improved overall performance.
Even the more affordable iPhone SE now comes with 5G, making the technology more accessible to a broader audience.
11. The fastest-growing 5G smartphone markets are India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia
While countries like China, the U.S., and South Korea lead in absolute numbers, the fastest-growing 5G smartphone markets are India, Brazil, and Southeast Asia. These regions are seeing explosive growth due to recent 5G rollouts and decreasing smartphone prices.
In India, telecom giants like Reliance Jio and Airtel have expanded 5G services at an incredible pace. Similarly, Brazil has been pushing aggressive 5G expansion, with cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro rapidly increasing coverage.
Southeast Asian nations like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are also experiencing a surge in 5G adoption.
For businesses looking to tap into emerging markets, these regions present massive opportunities. Whether it’s launching mobile apps, offering digital services, or selling 5G-enabled devices, the demand in these areas is expected to skyrocket in the next few years.
12. Over 85% of new smartphones sold in China are 5G-capable
China continues to be the leader in 5G adoption, and this is evident in its smartphone sales. Over 85% of all new smartphones sold in the country are now 5G-ready. This means that nearly every new phone buyer in China is automatically entering the 5G ecosystem.
This rapid transition is largely due to the efforts of Chinese smartphone brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo, which offer 5G models at highly competitive prices. Unlike other countries where 4G phones are still widely available, in China, 4G phones are quickly becoming obsolete.
If you are in China and looking for a new smartphone, you’ll find that almost every model supports 5G. This widespread adoption is also encouraging more businesses to develop 5G-powered applications, from ultra-fast cloud gaming to real-time AI services.
13. By 2025, over 90% of smartphones sold globally will support 5G
5G is becoming the default for new smartphones. By 2025, more than 90% of all new smartphones sold worldwide will be 5G-enabled. This means that within just a few years, buying a 4G-only phone will be rare.
The shift is being driven by both demand and supply. On the demand side, users want faster internet speeds, lower latency, and better connectivity. On the supply side, manufacturers are making 5G a standard feature, even in budget models.
If you are planning to buy a smartphone in the next year or two, you can be almost certain that it will have 5G. This is great news for consumers, as it ensures that even lower-cost devices will have access to faster internet speeds.
14. The United Kingdom has over 35 million 5G smartphone users as of 2024
The UK has been steadily growing its 5G adoption, and as of 2024, over 35 million people in the country are using 5G smartphones. Major cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham now have extensive 5G coverage.
British telecom providers, including EE, Vodafone, and Three, have played a significant role in this expansion. They have rolled out competitive data plans and network improvements to encourage more users to switch to 5G.
For UK residents who are still using 4G, upgrading to a 5G phone will allow them to experience better streaming, faster downloads, and more reliable connectivity. With coverage expanding even in rural areas, now is a great time to make the switch.
15. Japan has over 100 million active 5G smartphone users
Japan has always been a leader in technological innovation, and 5G adoption is no exception. With over 100 million active 5G smartphone users, the country is one of the biggest players in the global 5G market.
Japanese telecom companies like NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and KDDI have invested heavily in 5G infrastructure, ensuring that major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto have strong coverage.
5G is being used not only for faster mobile internet but also for smart city projects, automation, and AI-driven applications.
For businesses operating in Japan, the widespread adoption of 5G presents opportunities to develop next-generation apps and services that leverage ultra-fast connectivity.
Consumers, on the other hand, can expect better gaming, smoother video calls, and improved streaming experiences.
16. The average selling price of a 5G smartphone dropped below $400 in 2023
When 5G phones first hit the market, they were expensive. Flagship models from brands like Samsung and Apple were priced well over $1,000, making them unaffordable for many people. However, in 2023, the average price of a 5G smartphone fell below $400.
This price drop has been driven by increased competition among manufacturers, improved production efficiency, and growing demand. Brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung now offer 5G smartphones for as little as $200, making them accessible to a much larger audience.
For consumers, this means that upgrading to 5G no longer requires a huge investment. Even budget-friendly models now offer solid performance, making it easier for everyone to experience the benefits of faster mobile internet.
17. Over 40% of all smartphones in use globally are 5G-enabled
The world is shifting to 5G at a rapid pace. As of 2024, more than 40% of all smartphones in use worldwide support 5G. This is a significant milestone, considering that just a few years ago, 5G was still in its early stages.
This adoption rate is expected to grow even further in the coming years. As older 4G devices are gradually phased out, more users will switch to 5G-enabled models.
For businesses, this shift means that now is the time to optimize apps, websites, and services for 5G speeds. Consumers, on the other hand, should consider upgrading to a 5G phone soon to avoid falling behind as networks transition away from 4G.
18. 5G smartphone shipments reached 1 billion units in 2023 alone
The demand for 5G smartphones has been so strong that in 2023 alone, global shipments reached 1 billion units. This means that nearly half of all new smartphones sold last year were 5G-ready.
This rapid adoption is not slowing down. As more consumers demand better connectivity, manufacturers are continuing to prioritize 5G devices in their product lineups.
If you are in the market for a new phone, you have more choices than ever before. Whether you prefer an affordable device or a high-end flagship, there is a 5G smartphone that fits your needs.
19. The fastest 5G adoption rate has been observed in India and Southeast Asia
India and Southeast Asia are experiencing the fastest 5G adoption rates in the world. In just a short time, millions of people in these regions have switched from 4G to 5G, making these markets some of the most exciting to watch in the coming years.
One of the main drivers behind this rapid adoption is the aggressive rollout of 5G networks. Telecom giants like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone in India have been investing heavily in infrastructure.
Similarly, countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines have prioritized 5G expansion, making it more accessible to their growing populations.
Another key factor is affordability. Unlike in developed markets where 5G phones were initially expensive, brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung have launched budget-friendly 5G models in India and Southeast Asia.
This has made it possible for even middle and lower-income consumers to experience high-speed internet.
For businesses, this means there is a massive and growing market for 5G services, apps, and content. If you are looking to expand into these regions, now is the perfect time to do so.
For consumers, it’s an exciting time to upgrade to 5G, as networks continue to expand and device prices continue to fall.
20. By 2026, 5G smartphones will account for over 75% of all mobile connections worldwide
By 2026, more than three-quarters of all mobile connections worldwide will be on 5G. This means that 4G networks will slowly start to decline, with more users making the switch to faster, more reliable connectivity.
The transition is being driven by several factors. First, major telecom companies worldwide are investing billions of dollars in upgrading their networks.
Second, governments are supporting the shift by auctioning more 5G spectrum and setting policies to encourage faster deployment. Third, as mentioned earlier, smartphone manufacturers are making 5G the default in nearly all new devices.
If you haven’t yet upgraded to a 5G phone, you should consider doing so in the next year or two. As more networks phase out 4G, older devices may start to experience slower speeds and weaker coverage.
Businesses should also begin optimizing their digital services for 5G speeds to stay ahead of the competition.
21. Latin America has over 50 million 5G smartphone users
5G adoption in Latin America is growing steadily, with more than 50 million users across the region.
Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are leading the way, with telecom companies rolling out 5G networks in major cities.
However, adoption has been slower compared to other regions due to infrastructure challenges and the high cost of 5G-capable devices. Despite these challenges, the number of users is expected to grow rapidly as more affordable smartphones enter the market.
For businesses looking to expand into Latin America, this is a great time to invest in digital services that leverage 5G. Faster internet speeds mean new opportunities in mobile gaming, streaming, and e-commerce.
For consumers, the growing availability of 5G means better connectivity and an improved mobile experience.
22. Africa has the lowest 5G smartphone adoption, with fewer than 30 million users
While 5G adoption is booming in many parts of the world, Africa is lagging behind, with fewer than 30 million 5G smartphone users.
The primary reason for this slow adoption is the lack of widespread 5G infrastructure, as well as the high cost of 5G-enabled devices.
Most African countries are still expanding their 4G networks, making 5G a lower priority. However, some nations, such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, have started rolling out 5G in select cities.
For businesses looking to enter the African market, this presents an opportunity to provide affordable 5G solutions. For consumers, waiting a bit longer may be the best option, as prices for 5G phones and data plans are expected to become more affordable in the next few years.
23. 5G networks now cover over 80% of the world’s population, boosting smartphone adoption
One of the main reasons 5G smartphone adoption is growing rapidly is that 5G networks now cover over 80% of the global population. This means that most people worldwide have access to 5G services, even if they haven’t yet upgraded to a 5G device.
Mobile operators have been expanding their networks aggressively, ensuring that even rural areas get 5G coverage. This widespread availability is pushing more people to switch to 5G smartphones.
For consumers, this means you no longer have to live in a major city to benefit from 5G. If you’re considering upgrading to a 5G phone, check your carrier’s coverage map—you might be surprised to find that 5G is already available in your area.
24. The average 5G smartphone lifespan is estimated to be 4–5 years
As technology improves, smartphones are lasting longer than before. The average lifespan of a 5G smartphone is estimated to be 4–5 years, meaning that most users will keep their devices for about half a decade before upgrading.
This longer lifespan is partly due to improvements in battery technology, software updates, and better durability. However, as 5G technology evolves, new models with even better features will continue to be released.
If you’re buying a new 5G phone, consider getting one with strong hardware and good software support. Brands like Apple and Samsung provide updates for several years, ensuring that your device remains functional and secure.
25. Samsung Galaxy S10 5G was one of the first 5G phones, launched in 2019
The first wave of 5G smartphones hit the market in 2019, and the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G was among the pioneers. It was one of the earliest devices to support 5G networks, paving the way for future models.
Since then, 5G phones have come a long way. Early models were expensive and limited in availability, but today, nearly every major smartphone brand offers multiple 5G options across different price points.
For tech enthusiasts, looking back at early 5G models like the S10 5G shows how quickly the industry has advanced. If you’re still using an older 5G phone, upgrading to a newer model could provide better performance, improved battery life, and additional features.
26. 5G smartphone usage in urban areas is nearly 2x higher than in rural areas
While 5G adoption is growing worldwide, there is still a gap between urban and rural areas. Studies show that 5G smartphone usage in cities is almost twice as high as in rural regions.
This gap exists because mobile carriers tend to roll out 5G networks in cities first, where there are more customers and higher demand. Rural areas, on the other hand, often face delays in infrastructure development.
If you live in a rural area and are considering a 5G phone, check with your carrier to see if 5G is available in your region. If coverage is limited, it might be worth waiting until the network expands further.
27. 5G phone penetration in the Middle East is over 40% as of 2024
The Middle East has been a leader in 5G adoption, with over 40% of smartphone users in the region now using 5G-enabled devices. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have invested heavily in 5G infrastructure, making high-speed internet widely available.
For businesses, this high penetration rate means there are exciting opportunities to develop digital services for a 5G-connected audience.
Consumers in the Middle East can expect some of the fastest mobile internet speeds in the world, making activities like video streaming, gaming, and remote work smoother than ever.
28. Over 600 million new 5G smartphones are expected to be sold in 2025
The demand for 5G smartphones is not slowing down anytime soon. In 2025, global sales of 5G smartphones are projected to surpass 600 million units. This massive number shows how quickly consumers are making the transition from 4G to 5G-enabled devices.
One reason for this continued growth is the expansion of 5G networks into developing markets. Countries that were initially slow to adopt 5G, such as those in Africa and parts of Latin America, are now rolling out infrastructure at a faster pace.
As a result, millions of new consumers will be entering the 5G ecosystem for the first time.
Another factor driving 5G smartphone sales is the increasing affordability of devices. More manufacturers are producing budget-friendly 5G phones, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Unlike the early days of 5G, when only flagship models supported the technology, even mid-range and entry-level smartphones now come equipped with 5G capabilities.
For businesses, this growth means an expanding market for 5G-based apps, services, and digital content. For consumers, it’s a sign that if you haven’t upgraded to a 5G phone yet, you’ll likely be doing so in the near future.
With more options available at lower prices, 2025 is shaping up to be another big year for 5G adoption.
29. The global 5G smartphone market size is valued at over $600 billion in 2024
The 5G smartphone industry is not just growing—it’s booming. In 2024, the global 5G smartphone market is valued at over $600 billion, making it one of the most lucrative segments of the tech industry.
This massive market size is a result of both high consumer demand and aggressive expansion by manufacturers. Major brands like Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, and Oppo continue to dominate, but even smaller companies are finding success by launching affordable 5G models.
The rapid adoption of 5G smartphones is also driving innovation in related industries. Telecom providers are investing heavily in improving network speeds and coverage.
App developers are creating new experiences that take advantage of 5G’s ultra-low latency. Even businesses in areas like healthcare, finance, and retail are exploring how 5G can enhance their services.
For investors and tech entrepreneurs, this is an exciting time. The 5G revolution is still in its early stages, and there are many opportunities to capitalize on this growing market.
Consumers, on the other hand, can look forward to even better devices and services as competition in the 5G smartphone industry continues to heat up.
30. By 2027, there will be over 4 billion 5G smartphones in use worldwide
The future of mobile technology is clear: 5G is here to stay. By 2027, the number of 5G smartphones in use worldwide is expected to surpass 4 billion. This means that in just a few years, the vast majority of mobile users will be on 5G networks.
This level of adoption will bring major changes to how people interact with technology. Streaming high-definition videos, playing cloud-based games, and using AI-powered applications will become even more seamless.
Businesses will have to optimize their digital services to cater to a fully connected, high-speed internet world.
Governments and telecom providers will also need to keep up with this growth by continuing to expand 5G infrastructure.
While urban areas already have widespread coverage, ensuring that rural and remote areas also benefit from high-speed connectivity will be a key challenge in the coming years.
For consumers, the shift to 5G means that mobile experiences will only get better. If you haven’t already switched to a 5G phone, it’s likely that you’ll need to do so in the next few years to stay ahead as networks phase out older 4G technology.
wrapping it up
The global adoption of 5G smartphones is happening at an unprecedented rate. With over 1.5 billion 5G devices already in use and billions more expected in the coming years, this technology is shaping the future of communication, entertainment, and business.
