Global Standalone 5G Network Market By Component (Solutions, Services), By Spectrum (Sub-6 GHz, mmWave), By Network (Public, Private), By Vertical (Manufacturing, Automotive and Transportation, Smart Cities and others), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, and Forecast 2024-2033

Report Overview

The Global Standalone 5G Network Market is anticipated to create a lucrative growth opportunity in the global landscape by registering a CAGR of 51.6% from 2024 to 2033. The market is expected to reach a valuation of USD 1,672.1 Million by the end of 2023 and is predicted to reach USD 1,07,214.7 Million by 2033.

A standalone 5G network, often referred to as “SA 5G” or “standalone 5G,” is a wireless telecommunications network that operates independently of existing 4G or earlier network infrastructures. Unlike non-standalone (NSA) 5G, which relies on the underlying 4G infrastructure for certain functions, standalone 5G is a fully self-sufficient network architecture.

The standalone 5G network market is poised for rapid expansion over the coming years, promising disruptive change that may make previous advances seem incremental. While numbers vary greatly among mobile network operators (MNOs), experts anticipate an increasing number of MNOs investing in 5G standalone (SA) networks with trials, planned deployments and commercial launches planned over time.

Note: Actual Numbers Might Vary In Final Report

Standalone 5G networks consist of a 5G core and radio access network (RAN), which manages user connections. 5G consumer connections surpassed one billion in 2022 according to The Groupe Speciale Mobile Association (GSMA), and are expected to grow further to an estimated 1.6 billion connections by 2023 – thus driving market expansion.

Key Takeaways

• Market Growth: The Standalone 5G Network Market is set to reach USD 1,07,214.7 Million by 2033, with a projected CAGR of 51.6% from 2024 to 2033.
• Definition of Standalone 5G Network: Standalone 5G Network operates independently of existing 4G or earlier network infrastructures, forming a fully self-sufficient network architecture.
• Market Expansion: Rapid expansion is anticipated in the standalone 5G network market, with increasing investments from mobile network operators (MNOs) and planned commercial launches.
• Component Analysis: In 2023, Solutions played a pivotal role, securing over 80.7% market share. Solutions encompass components like 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) and 5G Core Network.
• Spectrum Analysis: Sub-6 GHz spectrum dominated in 2023, accounting for over 84.3% market share. Sub-6 GHz spectrum excels in covering longer distances and penetrating obstacles.
• Network Analysis: Public networks held a dominant position in 2023, with over 85.6% market share. Public networks provided ubiquitous connectivity for consumers and businesses.
• Vertical Analysis: In 2023, the Manufacturing sector led with over 26.1% market share, benefiting from real-time monitoring and automation enabled by Standalone 5G Networks.
• Drivers: The market is driven by insatiable demand for high-speed connectivity, Industry 4.0 transformation, and IoT proliferation.
• Restraints: Infrastructure investment and spectrum allocation challenges pose barriers to Standalone 5G Network deployment.
• Opportunities: Customized applications in healthcare and agriculture offer significant growth opportunities. Regional expansion to underserved regions and developing countries holds immense potential.
• Emerging Trends: 5G’s standalone service-based architecture, combined with cloud-native and non-cellular protocols, supports enterprise industrial IoT ecosystems.
• Regional Analysis: Asia Pacific emerged as the dominant force in 2023, capturing 47.2% market share. North America led in 5G adoption, driven by substantial investments and technology-driven culture.
• Key Players: Key players in the standalone 5G network market include T-Mobile USA, Inc., Nokia Corporation, Vodafone Limited, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Verizon Communications Inc., and others. These companies drive innovation in 5G technology and contribute to global adoption.

Component Analysis

In 2023, Solutions played a pivotal role in the Standalone 5G Network market, establishing a commanding presence by securing over 80.7% of the market share. Let’s delve into a segmental analysis of this dynamic sector, using simple language while maintaining the professional and data-driven tone required for market research.

Solutions Segment

The Solutions segment encompasses various components critical to the Standalone 5G Network infrastructure.

• 5G Radio Access Network (RAN):
  • In 2023, 5G RAN emerged as a frontrunner within the Solutions segment, contributing significantly to its dominance. It formed the bedrock of 5G network deployment, with robust growth backed by demand for enhanced connectivity and faster data speeds.
• 5G Core Network:
  • Complementing the 5G RAN, the 5G Core Network also played a pivotal role. Its evolution enabled the seamless integration of advanced features, such as low-latency communication and network slicing. This bolstered the overall appeal of Standalone 5G Networks.
• Other Solutions:
  • The category of “Other Solutions” includes a range of vital components like network management systems and security protocols. These elements provided the necessary support for the entire Standalone 5G Network ecosystem to thrive.

Services Segment

While Solutions dominated the market landscape, Services played an indispensable role in complementing the technology. These services encompassed various aspects like network deployment, maintenance, and optimization.

• Deployment Services:
  • Deployment services were crucial in rolling out Standalone 5G Networks effectively. Service providers offered expertise in setting up the infrastructure, ensuring its compatibility with existing networks, and optimizing coverage.
• Maintenance and Support Services:
  • To ensure uninterrupted network operations, maintenance and support services were in high demand. These services addressed issues promptly, enhancing the reliability of Standalone 5G Networks.

Spectrum Analysis

In the year 2023, Sub-6 GHz undeniably took the helm in the Standalone 5G Network market, establishing a commanding presence by securing over 84.3% of the market share. Now, let’s embark on a distinctive segmental journey that shines a light on the two pivotal spectrum types, Sub-6 GHz and mmWave, in a way that combines simplicity, human touch, and market research acumen.

Sub-6 GHz Spectrum

Capturing the Broad Horizon:

Sub-6 GHz spectrum emerged as the undisputed leader, casting its net wide across the Standalone 5G Network market. This spectrum type boasts wavelengths that are longer, making it adept at traversing longer distances and penetrating obstacles such as walls and buildings with ease.

Applications Beyond Boundaries:

• Urban Connectivity: Sub-6 GHz spectrum found its stride in urban environments, where the demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity is at its peak. It seamlessly powered applications like smart cities, enabling efficient traffic management and public services.
• Rural Outreach: Beyond urban centers, Sub-6 GHz spectrum stretched its reach to rural areas, where connectivity often faces challenges. Its ability to cover vast expanses made it a viable choice for bridging the digital divide.

mmWave Spectrum

Unveiling the Potential:

While Sub-6 GHz dominated, mmWave spectrum carved out a distinct niche in the Standalone 5G Network landscape. This spectrum type boasts shorter wavelengths, enabling it to deliver astonishingly fast data speeds.

Localized Brilliance:

• Urban Hotspots: mmWave spectrum thrived in urban hotspots where ultra-fast connectivity was paramount. Its strengths shone in applications like high-definition video streaming and augmented reality experiences, enhancing the quality of life in densely populated areas.
• Venue Excellence: Sporting arenas, concert venues, and large event spaces found mmWave’s prowess invaluable. It delivered the capacity needed for thousands of devices to connect simultaneously, providing an immersive experience for attendees.

Network Analysis

In the year 2023, the Public network type firmly held the reins in the Standalone 5G Network market, asserting its dominance by securing over 85.6% of the market share. Let’s embark on a distinctive journey through the segmentation of the Standalone 5G Network market, exploring the contrasting realms of Public and Private networks, all while maintaining a human touch and market research precision.

Public Networks

The Widely Embraced Realm:

Public networks stood as the undeniable frontrunners in the Standalone 5G Network market of 2023. These networks, accessible to the general populace, catered to a diverse range of users, from individuals to businesses, and even governmental entities.

Ubiquitous Connectivity:

• Consumer Delight: Public networks offered ubiquitous connectivity for consumers, elevating their digital experiences. Whether streaming high-definition content, engaging in video conferencing, or enjoying augmented reality applications, the public network delivered.
• Business Enabler: For businesses, public networks became a cornerstone for digital transformation. They supported remote work, enabling employees to collaborate seamlessly from anywhere, and facilitated the adoption of IoT solutions for enhanced efficiency.

Private Networks

A Niche of Precision:

While Public networks flourished, Private networks carved out a specialized niche in the Standalone 5G Network landscape of 2023. These networks, dedicated to specific organizations or industries, offered tailor-made solutions.

Focused Performance:

• Industrial Precision: Private networks found their calling in industries like manufacturing, where precision and low latency were paramount. They powered advanced automation and robotics, ensuring real-time control and quality.
• Security and Control: Sensitive sectors such as healthcare and finance embraced private networks for their heightened security and control over data. This made them ideal for telemedicine, financial transactions, and data-intensive applications.

Note: Actual Numbers Might Vary In Final Report

In conclusion, 2023 saw Public networks emerge as the dominant force in the Standalone 5G Network market, capturing an impressive 85.6% market share. They offered widespread connectivity, enhancing both consumer experiences and business operations. Simultaneously, Private networks thrived in specialized niches where precision, security, and control were essential. This dual landscape underscores the adaptability and versatility of 5G technology, catering to a multitude of needs across public and private sectors, ensuring a robust and inclusive connectivity ecosystem.

Vertical Analysis

In 2023, the Manufacturing sector firmly held the reins in the Standalone 5G Network market, asserting its dominance by securing more than a 26.1% market share. As we embark on a comprehensive journey through the market segmentation based on vertical analysis, we’ll delve into the unique dynamics of various sectors, presented in an easily understandable and human-friendly manner.

In 2023, the Manufacturing sector led the way in adopting Standalone 5G Networks. These networks revolutionized the manufacturing landscape by enabling real-time monitoring, precise automation, and predictive maintenance. This enhanced efficiency, reduced downtime, and ensured product quality, solidifying the Manufacturing sector’s dominant position.

For the Automotive and Transportation sector, Standalone 5G Networks in 2023 represented a game-changer. These networks paved the way for autonomous vehicles, efficient traffic management, and enhanced in-car entertainment, delivering a seamless and safer mobility experience for all.

Enterprises and corporations harnessed the power of Standalone 5G Networks to supercharge their operations. These networks facilitated remote work, supported large-scale data transfers, and improved customer engagement, setting the stage for remarkable business transformations.

In 2023, the Energy & Utilities sector embraced Standalone 5G Networks to optimize grid management, monitor energy consumption, and enhance the integration of renewable energy sources. This not only increased efficiency but also contributed to the sustainability goals of this sector.

Standalone 5G Networks revolutionized healthcare by enabling remote consultations, real-time monitoring of patients, and the rapid exchange of medical data. Hospitals and healthcare providers found an invaluable tool in delivering high-quality care with efficiency and precision.

Smart Cities leveraged Standalone 5G Networks to enhance public services, improve traffic management, and ensure public safety. These networks transformed cities into intelligent hubs, enhancing the quality of life for urban dwellers.

Standalone 5G Networks found diverse applications in Agriculture, making farming more efficient and sustainable. In Smart Homes, they enabled connected devices for greater convenience and energy savings. In Public Safety & Defense, these networks ensured secure and real-time communication, enhancing overall security.

Drivers

• Insatiable Demand for High-Speed Connectivity: The ever-growing need for faster and more reliable connectivity fuels the Standalone 5G Network market. Consumers and businesses alike crave seamless access to data and applications.
• Industry 4.0 Transformation: The Manufacturing sector’s shift toward Industry 4.0, characterized by automation and data-driven processes, has been a major driver. Standalone 5G Networks enable real-time data exchange, enhancing operational efficiency.
• IoT Proliferation: The Internet of Things (IoT) revolution depends on robust connectivity. Standalone 5G Networks facilitate the deployment of countless IoT devices, from smart homes to industrial sensors.

Restraints

• Infrastructure Investment: Building the necessary infrastructure for Standalone 5G Networks requires substantial investment. This can be a barrier, particularly in regions with limited financial resources.
• Spectrum Allocation Challenges: Allocating the right spectrum for 5G can be complex, as it involves regulatory and coordination challenges. Spectrum availability can impact network deployment.

Challenges

• Security Concerns: With increased connectivity, the risk of cybersecurity threats rises. Protecting Standalone 5G Networks from cyberattacks remains a significant challenge.
• Interoperability Issues: Ensuring that different devices and networks can seamlessly communicate with Standalone 5G Networks poses interoperability challenges.

Opportunities

• Vertical-Specific Solutions: Customized applications of 5G technology in sectors like healthcare, smart cities, and agriculture present significant growth opportunities.
• Regional Expansion: Expanding 5G coverage to underserved regions and developing countries represents an untapped market with immense potential.

Emerging Trends

5G’s standalone service-based architecture combined with cloud native and non-cellular specific protocols like HTTP2 is key to supporting the complex and numerous services required of enterprise industrial IoT ecosystem. A standalone 5G network will unlock its full potential; although deployment has been ongoing since early 2016, most networks were initially deployed non-standalone (NSA), meaning they relied upon 4G as an anchor; although in early days this may have helped.

The standalone 5G network market is anticipated to experience rapid expansion over the coming years, fueled by increasing adoption of 5G technology and the rising demand for high-speed data transfer and low latency communication. 5G adoption in various industries such as automotive, healthcare and manufacturing is projected to drive its development further while an increase in high speed data transfer and low latency communication should fuel further market expansion.

Key Market Segments

• Component Type
  • Solutions
    • 5G Radio Access Network (RAN)
    • 5G Core Network
    • Others (Backhaul and Fronthaul, Switches, Routers)
  • Services
• Spectrum Type
  • Sub-6 GHz
  • mmWave
• Network Type
  • Public
  • Private
• Vertical Type
  • Manufacturing
  • Automotive and Transportation
  • Enterprise/Corporate
  • Energy & Utilities
  • Healthcare/Hospitals
  • Smart Cities
  • Others (Agriculture, Smart Home, Public Safety & Defense)

Regional Analysis

In 2023, the Standalone 5G Network market experienced distinctive regional dynamics, with Asia Pacific emerging as the dominant force, capturing an impressive 47.2% market share. The demand for Standalone 5G Network in Asia Pacific was valued at USD 789.2 Million in 20223 and is anticipated to grow significantly in the forecast period. Let’s delve into a segmental analysis of the Standalone 5G Network market across key regions, presenting insights in an accessible and human-friendly manner.

North America remained at the forefront of 5G adoption, driven by substantial investments and a strong technology-driven culture. The region’s leaders, including the United States, led the way in network expansion and advancements. These developments propelled the growth of Standalone 5G Networks, offering enhanced connectivity and driving digital transformation.

In Europe, Standalone 5G Networks gained traction steadily, with several nations making significant strides in network expansion and adoption. This region displayed a growing interest in harnessing 5G’s potential for industries, including manufacturing and healthcare. While challenges persisted, Europe’s commitment to 5G technology remained steadfast.

Latin America embarked on its 5G journey, albeit with challenges related to infrastructure and funding. Some countries within the region began to roll out 5G networks, especially in urban centers, paving the way for improved connectivity. Despite obstacles, Latin America showcased determination in embracing Standalone 5G Networks to bridge the digital divide.

In the Middle East & Africa, Standalone 5G Networks represented an emerging frontier. While adoption was in its nascent stages, various nations in the region initiated plans to deploy 5G infrastructure. The promise of improved connectivity, especially in urban hubs, held the potential to transform industries and enhance digital inclusion.

Key Regions and Countries Covered in this Report

• North America
  • The US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Russia
  • Netherland
  • Rest of Europe
• APAC
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

In the Standalone 5G Network market, key players play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of connectivity. Industry giants like T-Mobile USA, Inc., Nokia Corporation, Vodafone Limited, Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Verizon Communications Inc., Samsung Electronics. Co. Ltd., AT&T, Inc., Singtel, Rogers Communications Canada Inc. are at the forefront of innovation, providing cutting-edge infrastructure and solutions that drive the global adoption of Standalone 5G Networks.

These companies exert their influence through groundbreaking advancements in 5G technology, fostering an ecosystem that fuels connectivity and transformative possibilities across various industries and regions. Their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology ensures that Standalone 5G Networks continue to evolve and play a central role in the digital transformation of our world.

Top Key Players

• T-Mobile USA, Inc.
• Nokia Corporation
• Vodafone Limited
• Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
• Verizon Communications Inc.
• Samsung Electronics. Co. Ltd.
• AT&T, Inc.
• Singtel
• Rogers Communications Canada Inc.

Report Scope