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Who’s Leading the 5G Charge? A Look at the Top 5 Global Players

Who’s Leading the 5G Charge? A Look at the Top 5 Global Players

ICT | Jan, 2025

The infrastructure of 5G is rapidly evolving across the globe, driven by the increasing demand for faster connectivity, low latency, and a robust framework to support emerging technologies. Governments, telecommunications providers, and technology firms are collaborating on a massive scale to deploy 5G networks and create the backbone of the next-generation digital ecosystem.

Globally, 5G infrastructure is being built using a mix of advanced technologies. The rollout involves traditional base stations and a dense network of small cells. Small cells, critical for addressing the limited range of high-frequency millimeter waves, are being installed extensively in urban and suburban areas to enhance network coverage. Spectrum allocation plays a vital role, with countries auctioning low, mid, and high-frequency bands to operators. Each frequency band has a unique purpose; low bands offer widespread coverage, mid bands balance speed with range, and high bands provide ultra-high speeds, albeit with limited reach.

According to TechSci Research report “5G Infrastructure MarketGlobal Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Communication Infrastructure (Small Cell, Macro Cell, Radio Access Network (RAN), Distributed Antenna System (DAS)), By Core Network Technology (Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), Fog Computing (FC)), By Application (Healthcare, Automotive, Others), By Region & Competition, 2019-2029F” The Global 5G Infrastructure Market was valued at USD 20.73 Billion in 2023 and is predicted to experience robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 54.71% through 2029.

The deployment of a software-defined, cloud-native core network is also accelerating. This modern architecture allows scalability, flexibility, and innovations such as network slicing, where virtualized network segments cater to specific use cases. Simultaneously, edge computing infrastructure is being developed to bring data processing closer to users, minimizing latency and supporting real-time applications like autonomous vehicles and industrial automation.

Regional Progress in 5G Infrastructure Development

Countries across the globe are at varying stages in the rollout of 5G, with some regions advancing quickly, while others face significant challenges. In Asia, China leads the way, having built the largest 5G network globally, with over 2 million 5G base stations, representing about 70% of the world’s total. China’s government has made substantial investments in expanding 5G infrastructure, aiming to provide full coverage in all cities by 2025 and reach 1 billion 5G users by 2027. South Korea, the first country to commercially launch 5G in 2019, has achieved near nationwide coverage, with a strong emphasis on using 5G for industrial IoT applications and smart factory automation. South Korea continues to push advancements in autonomous driving and smart healthcare through its 5G network.

In North America, the United States is making steady progress with telecom giants like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile leading the charge. By 2024, T-Mobile had extended its 5G network to over 300 million people, with Verizon and AT&T following suit in urban areas before expanding to rural regions. However, rural coverage remains a challenge due to high infrastructure costs. The US aims to achieve 100% 5G coverage by 2025, facilitated by spectrum auctions such as the $80 billion mid-band spectrum auction held by the FCC in 2020. Europe, meanwhile, is focusing on balancing 5G rollout with sustainability goals, particularly in countries like the UK and Germany. By 2024, the UK reached about 80% 5G coverage, with further growth anticipated by 2025. The EU aims for 80% population coverage by 2030, while Germany is integrating energy-efficient technologies to meet climate goals alongside its 5G rollout.

In emerging markets, India has started its 5G deployment in late 2022, with major telecom providers like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel working toward nationwide coverage, although challenges like high infrastructure costs and regulatory issues slow down the process. India’s government has generated significant revenue from 5G spectrum auctions, but full urban and rural coverage will take time. In Africa, 5G adoption is more gradual due to infrastructure limitations and the high cost of deployment. South Africa is one of the few African nations to launch commercial 5G services, with MTN Group leading the way, but overall 5G penetration in Africa is still minimal, with only 5% of the population expected to have access to 5G by 2025.

Top 5 Companies Leading the 5G Game

        1.   Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd.

Founding Year

1987

Headquarters

Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Website

https://www.huawei.com/en/

 

Founded by Ren Zhengfei back in 1987, Huawei kicked off as a modest venture selling phone switches in China. Fast forward to today, and it's a powerhouse in the tech world, recognized as one of the largest and most influential companies globally. Operating in over 170 countries, Huawei boasts an extensive portfolio that spans telecommunications equipment, consumer electronics, and enterprise solutions.

  • Huawei is leading the charge in 5G research and development, holding a considerable number of patents related to this technology. It plays a crucial role in shaping various standards through its involvement with the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The company has made notable advancements in areas like massive MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output), beamforming, network slicing, and 5G NR (New Radio), which are essential for enhancing mobile network efficiency, capacity, and speed.
  • Huawei supplies vital hardware for building 5G networks, including base stations, small cells, antennas, and core network components. Its solutions are utilized by telecom operators globally, forming the backbone of the 5G rollout. The Huawei 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) is among the most widely adopted systems, with deployments across countries like China, Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.
  • Beyond infrastructure, Huawei is advancing practical applications of 5G across various industries such as smart cities, autonomous driving, industrial IoT, and healthcare. Its capabilities enable high-speed video streaming as well as virtual and augmented reality applications, positioning Huawei as a crucial player in the digital transformation of industries worldwide.

        2.   Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd:

Founding Year

1969

Headquarters

Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea

Website

https://www.samsung.com/

 

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. is one of the largest and most diversified technology companies in the world. It is a global leader in various sectors, including consumer electronics, semiconductors, telecommunications, and digital media. Founded in 1969 as a subsidiary of the Samsung Group, the company has since grown into a multinational corporation with operations in over 80 countries. With over 100,000 employees worldwide, the company consistently reinvests a significant portion of its revenue into innovation, establishing itself as a leader in technology, particularly in smartphones, displays, and telecommunication infrastructure.

  • Samsung is at the forefront of 5G innovation, actively shaping the 5G New Radio (NR) standards and advancing technologies like massive MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) and beamforming. They were among the first to successfully trial and roll out 5G solutions for commercial use.
  • Samsung offers a comprehensive range of 5G solutions, including base stations, small cells, radio access networks (RAN), core networks, and cloud platforms. Their RAN products like the 4G/5G dual-mode radios are deployed by telecom operators worldwide. Major players such as Verizon, AT&T, and SK Telecom have chosen Samsung’s infrastructure for both public and private networks. Their advanced 8x8 MIMO technology, which uses eight antennas for improved capacity and performance, is highly regarded in the industry.
  • Samsung has been actively involved in rolling out 5G networks across various regions. In South Korea, they played a major role in launching the first nationwide 5G network in partnership with SK Telecom, KT Corporation, and LG Uplus back in 2019. Their technology has been crucial for ensuring network performance and reliability. Beyond South Korea, Samsung is also making strides in North America, Europe, and Asia through partnerships with companies like Verizon and T-Mobile, providing a broad array of 5G solutions.

        3.   Qualcomm Inc.

Founding Year

1985

Headquarters

San Diego, California, United States

Website

https://www.qualcomm.com/

 

Founded in 1985 by Irwin M. Jacobs, Andrew Viterbi, and others, Qualcomm revolutionized wireless communications and has grown to become a dominant player in the mobile technology sector. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Qualcomm designs, manufactures, and sells wireless telecommunications products and services, specializing in semiconductors, software, and network solutions. With over 40,000 employees globally, Qualcomm has established itself as a major player in the development of mobile and wireless technology. The company is also one of the largest investors in research and development (R&D), consistently spending billions of dollars annually to fuel innovation.

  • Their Snapdragon 5G platform lays the groundwork for smartphones that can connect to 5G networks with top-notch performance. The Snapdragon X55 and X60 modems deliver multi-gigabit speeds and ultra-low latency, supporting both standalone (SA) and non-standalone (NSA) configurations. The X70 modem, introduced in 2022, is among the most advanced 5G chips available, offering improved power efficiency and speed.
  • Qualcomm is also heavily involved in developing 5G infrastructure through its network equipment and solutions for telecom operators. Their 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions are crafted to support the rollout of next-gen networks, delivering the high-speed and low-latency performance essential for 5G applications. Qualcomm's Small Cell Solutions and 5G Femtocells help densify networks, which is crucial for ensuring reliable coverage and high capacity in urban areas.
  • Qualcomm is a crucial enabler of the global 5G rollout, partnering with mobile operators, device manufacturers, and infrastructure providers around the world. Their solutions are used by leading telecom companies such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, China Mobile, and Vodafone. Qualcomm's modems and chipsets are found in a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and IoT gadgets, allowing seamless connectivity to 5G networks.

        4.   Ericsson

Founding Year

1876

Headquarters

Stockholm, Sweden

Website

https://www.ericsson.com/en

 

Ericsson is a global leader in telecommunications and networking technology. Founded in 1876 by Lars Magnus Ericsson, the company initially started as a small repair shop for telegraph equipment in Stockholm, Sweden. Over the years, Ericsson evolved into one of the largest and most influential providers of telecommunications equipment and services, with a key focus on the development and implementation of mobile networks. Ericsson also invests in 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, working on the development of solutions that leverage 5G networks for industries like automotive, smart cities, healthcare, and more.

  • Ericsson stands out as a leading provider of 5G RAN equipment, offering essential components like 5G base stations, small cells, and massive MIMO antennas. These technologies support high-speed, low-latency, and high-capacity mobile networks. Their RAN solutions are built to manage a significant surge in traffic while providing seamless coverage, which is crucial for accommodating the growing number of connected devices and services in the 5G landscape.
  • The company has developed a robust core network solution that is essential for delivering 5G services. Ericsson's Cloud Core architecture supports a wide array of applications, including network slicing and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). By virtualizing the core network, Ericsson enables operators to offer dynamic services tailored for enterprise solutions, smart city applications, and autonomous vehicles.
  • Ericsson plays a significant role in shaping 5G standards by collaborating with organizations like the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). They have been instrumental in defining critical technologies such as beamforming, massive MIMO, and millimeter-wave frequencies. With thousands of patents related to 5G under their belt, Ericsson is at the forefront of standardizing these technologies, reinforcing its leadership position in mobile communications.

        5.   ZTE Corporation

Founding Year

1985

Headquarters

Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Website

https://www.zte.com.cn/global/

 

Established in 1985, ZTE (Zhongxing Telecommunication Equipment Corporation) is headquartered in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China, and has grown to become one of the largest players in the telecommunications industry. ZTE is renowned for its innovative contributions to wireless networks, broadband access, and mobile technology. With a strong focus on research and development (R&D), the company reinvests approximately 10% of its annual revenue into developing cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the areas of 5G, IoT, and AI-driven networks.

  • ZTE offers a wide array of 5G RAN solutions, including massive MIMO antennas, macro base stations, and small cells. These technologies are engineered to deliver ultra-fast data speeds, low latency, and high network capacity. ZTE’s SuperDSS (Dynamic Spectrum Sharing) technology enables operators to support both 4G and 5G users on the same frequency band, making the transition to 5G networks smoother.
  • ZTE is a leading contributor to the standardization of 5G technology and holds a substantial portfolio of related patents. As of 2023, they ranked among the top companies globally for 5G patent filings, covering critical areas such as massive MIMO, beamforming, and millimeter-wave (mmWave) technologies. Their research initiatives have fostered advancements in intelligent network orchestration and AI-enhanced 5G networks.
  • ZTE is actively engaged in deploying 5G networks around the world. They have formed partnerships with major telecom operators across China, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In China, ZTE is a key supplier for China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom, significantly contributing to the country’s rapid 5G deployment. Internationally, they have teamed up with telecom providers like MTN Group in Africa and VEON in Europe to accelerate the adoption of 5G.

Specific Challenges Faced by the Above-Mentioned Companies

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd.

Huawei has faced bans in key markets like the United States, India, and several European countries due to security concerns and alleged ties with the Chinese government. This has significantly impacted its global market access, reducing its presence in regions that account for over 40% of telecom spending worldwide. U.S.-imposed sanctions have restricted Huawei’s access to advanced semiconductors, crucial for manufacturing 5G equipment. This has slowed the company’s global 5G rollout, with Huawei reporting a 30% decline in international revenue in 2022.

Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.

Despite achieving nationwide 5G coverage in South Korea, Samsung struggles to expand its telecom equipment business in regions dominated by other players. Samsung contends with established rivals like Huawei, Nokia, and Ericsson, which collectively control 60-70% of the global telecom equipment market. Samsung invests heavily in millimeter-wave (mmWave) and massive MIMO technologies. In 2022, its R&D expenditure exceeded $18 billion, straining profitability margins in its telecom division.

Qualcomm Inc.

Qualcomm's licensing revenue, which accounts for nearly 20% of its total income, is often tied up in legal disputes. Notably, it faced a $975 million fine in China in 2015 over anti-competitive practices, creating a challenging environment for its 5G business. As primarily a chipset supplier, Qualcomm’s success depends on partnerships with telecom providers and device manufacturers, leaving it vulnerable to market shifts.

Ericsson

Ericsson faces stiff competition from low-cost providers like Huawei and ZTE, particularly in developing regions. Despite securing $8 billion in 5G contracts globally in 2023, it struggles with pricing in cost-sensitive markets. Rising costs for raw materials and components, exacerbated by inflation, have added to Ericsson’s operational expenses, with a reported 8% cost increase in 2022.

ZTE Corporation

Similar to Huawei, ZTE has faced scrutiny and restrictions in the U.S. and parts of Europe, limiting its market reach. ZTE's revenue from international markets declined by 15% in 2022. Previous violations of export controls, which led to a $1.4 billion fine in 2018, have tarnished ZTE’s global reputation, making it difficult to secure partnerships in some regions.

Cross Industry Challenges

  • High Deployment Costs: The global rollout of 5G requires massive investments. For instance, deploying 5G base stations costs up to $200,000 per site, significantly higher than for 4G. Additionally, operators like China Mobile have invested over $14 billion annually in 5G infrastructure.
  • Spectrum Allocation and Cost: The cost of acquiring spectrum licenses is a significant burden. In 2021, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) auctioned C-band spectrum for 5G at a record-breaking $81 billion, putting financial strain on telecom operators and vendors.
  • Integration with Existing Networks: Transitioning from 4G to 5G is a complex process, requiring significant upgrades. In Europe, for example, nearly 50% of 4G infrastructure is still in use, delaying seamless 5G deployment.
  • Energy Efficiency Concerns: Operating 5G networks consumes 2-3 times more energy than 4G. To address this, companies like ZTE have introduced energy-saving solutions, but these require further development, adding to R&D expenses.
  • Regulatory and Compliance Complexities: Differing regulatory standards across countries create delays. For instance, 5G deployment in India was delayed until 2022 due to spectrum auction disputes, despite high demand.
  • Adoption Challenges: Although 1.5 billion 5G subscriptions are expected by the end of 2025, adoption is uneven. High costs for 5G-enabled devices and services, especially in emerging markets, remain a significant hurdle.

The journey to develop and deploy 5G infrastructure globally is being spearheaded by industry leaders like Huawei, Samsung, Qualcomm, Ericsson, and ZTE. These companies have demonstrated significant innovation and resilience, contributing to advancements in network capacity, ultra-low latency, and industrial applications. However, they face substantial challenges, including geopolitical tensions, high deployment costs, regulatory hurdles, and supply chain constraints.

According to TechSci research report “India 5G Chipset Market, By Type (Application Specific Integrated Circuit, Radio Frequency Integrated Circuit, Millimeter Wave Integrated Circuit, Cellular Integrated Circuit), By Frequency (Sub-6 GHZ, 26-39 GHZ, Above 39 GHZ), By Deployment Type (Smartphone, Connected Vehicles, Connected Devices, Broadband Access Gateway Devices), By End User (Energy & Utilities, Manufacturing, IT & Telecommunication, Media & Entertainment, Transportation & Logistics, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030FIndia 5G Chipset Market was valued at USD 6.99 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 23.37 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 22.10% during the forecast period. 

China, the United States, Europe, and South Korea lead the way, while emerging markets are catching up despite slower progress. Companies like Huawei and ZTE excel in large-scale deployments but face restrictions in Western markets. Samsung leverages its technological expertise and early adoption, while Qualcomm provides critical chipset innovations. Ericsson stands out with sustainability-focused solutions.

Despite these challenges, the ongoing commitment to research, collaboration, and strategic planning will enable these companies to overcome barriers and pave the way for widespread 5G adoption, transforming global connectivity and enabling future innovations.

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