However, the deployment of 5G Standalone (SA) networks has been slower than anticipated. This delay is partly due to the lower-than-expected monetization of services, which has tempered enthusiasm across the industry. Despite the notable absence of significant commercial deployments, the report underscores that considerable advancements are being made behind the scenes. These include efforts towards large-scale 5G SA rollouts and new 5G-Advanced initiatives that are progressing at a brisk pace.
Testing of the 5G Core
The report highlights significant momentum surrounding the testing and preparation for widespread 5G Standalone deployments. Operators are focusing heavily on thorough testing of their 5G core networks. This preparation is aimed at ensuring robust 5G SA implementations, thus moving the industry closer to fully realizing the benefits of 5G’s advanced features. In 2024, Spirent engaged with over 50 communication service providers (CSPs), hyperscale companies, and network equipment manufacturers (NEMs) on 5G SA testing initiatives. These engagements serve as the foundation for the report and indicate substantial preparatory activities aimed at bolstering 5G’s quality and return on investment (ROI) in 2025, with over 30 interactions involving network operators. Stephen Douglas, the head of market strategy at Spirent Communications, identified four key themes stemming from their report. The first theme, testing of the 5G core, underscores the industry’s commitment to ensuring that the backbone of 5G networks is robust and reliable. This focus on core network testing is crucial for the successful deployment of 5G SA networks.
Operators acknowledge that thorough testing and validation are central to mitigating risks associated with large-scale rollouts. The complexity of 5G networks, coupled with the need for high reliability and low-latency performance, necessitates these rigorous testing procedures. By engaging in extensive testing, operators aim to protect their investments and ensure a seamless transition to 5G SA, ultimately delivering a superior user experience. The continuous advancements and refinements in testing methodologies also signal that the industry is actively addressing potential challenges that might arise during deployment. This proactive approach reflects the industry’s dedication to overcoming hurdles and achieving the high performance that 5G promises.
Enhancing Customer Experience
Enhancing customer experience has become a critical priority for operators, particularly in North America and Asia Pacific. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), where spectrum is shared between fixed and mobile services, emerged as a focal point. Operators are keen on understanding and improving end-user experiences, especially during peak usage times. They recognize that successfully maintaining FWA subscribers is financially rewarding due to potential upsell opportunities for additional services like mobility and family plans. Efforts to enhance the in-home experience are expected to lead to the deployment of advanced customer premises equipment (CPE) with Wi-Fi 7 capabilities and multi-antenna features during 2025. Additionally, operators aim to shift toward self-installable indoor CPEs, moving away from the need for professionally installed outdoor equipment. This shift is expected to simplify the installation process and improve customer satisfaction.
The emphasis on customer experience is not just about technology but also about understanding and meeting customer needs. Operators are investing in tools and strategies to monitor and enhance the user experience, ensuring that 5G delivers on its promise of superior connectivity and performance. Operators are also leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning to predict and mitigate network issues before they impact customers. This proactive approach not only enhances service reliability but also builds customer loyalty by addressing problems proactively. As 5G networks evolve, operators are prioritizing customer feedback to drive continuous improvements and adapt their services to meet the dynamic expectations of users. This customer-centric focus is essential for maximizing the adoption and success of 5G technology.
Preparations for New Services
Preparations for new 5G services are well underway, with notable activities surrounding RedCap (Reduced Capability) device testing. Operators are assessing network readiness to handle the expected proliferation of these devices, which are pivotal for 5G’s upcoming service launches. Although there is uncertainty about the initial commercial success of RedCap, the anticipation lies in future enhanced capabilities. Network operators express a clear interest in deploying RedCap swiftly to free up existing spectrum and repurpose it for more efficient use. Moreover, there is significant interest in testing roaming services, especially for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) and private networks with their own spectrum, to facilitate interoperability with public networks. Testing for 5G mission-critical communications, such as first-responder networks and European railway communications, also forms part of the emerging services landscape.
The focus on new services highlights the industry’s proactive approach to innovation. By preparing for the next wave of 5G applications, operators are positioning themselves to capitalize on new revenue streams and enhance the overall value proposition of 5G technology. This forward-thinking approach is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market. Operators are also exploring partnerships with various industries to develop and launch novel 5G applications. These collaborations aim to unlock new business opportunities and drive economic growth by leveraging the unique capabilities of 5G. By fostering innovation and embracing new service paradigms, operators are setting the foundation for a more versatile and impactful 5G ecosystem.