As mobile marketing continues to evolve, the 5G core network is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven largely by the increasing adoption of standalone (SA) architecture. This surge in popularity is expected to continue, with a projected 6% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). But what's behind this accelerated pace?
The Power of Mobile Marketing
One key factor driving this growth is the rise of Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC), which is expected to expand at an impressive 17% CAGR. This rapid growth can be attributed to several factors, including the rollout of dynamic network slicing, reduced capability (RedCap) devices, and the emergence of network APIs aligned with GSMA's Open Gateway initiative. In fact, 72 mobile network operators (MNOs) worldwide have already defined 17 APIs, paving the way for further adoption.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence
According to Dave Bolan from Dell'Oro, the growth rate could even increase due to the emergence of Generative AI and Agentic AI, which are expected to require expanded network capacity. This, in turn, could lead to lower operational costs for MNOs as they move towards L4 autonomous networking.
The Rise of Open Gateway
MEC is not the only area experiencing rapid growth. The GSMA's Open Gateway initiative is also gaining momentum, with vendors actively building and marketing solutions that align with this open framework. This convergence of developments is expected to accelerate MEC adoption and ecosystem expansion.
Voices and Networks
As 3G networks shut down, Circuit Switched Core networks must be upgraded to IMS Core to maintain voice calling on 4G networks. According to Dell'Oro's estimates, the cumulative revenue for IMS Core/Voice Core from 2026-2029 will increase by 9% compared to their previous forecast.
The State of 5G SA Networks
In 2026 alone, five new 5G SA networks were launched, including Orange in France, Romania, and Slovakia; Vodafone in Spain; and O2 in the Czech Republic. Today, a total of 70 MNOs have deployed 5G SA networks in 39 countries/territories. Regionally, we see five networks in North America, 26 in Europe, seven in the Middle East and Africa, 13 in Northeast Asia, 13 in Southeast Asia, and six in Latin America.
The Future of Mobile Marketing
Many MNOs have already offered 5G SA for enterprises and fixed wireless access but have yet to open their networks to consumers. However, this is expected to change soon, with MNOs such as Bouygues Telecom, O2 Telefónica, and SFR in France, Bharti Airtel in India, 3 in Ireland, Sunrise in Switzerland, and AT&T and Verizon in the US all poised to bring their 5G SA networks to consumers. As mobile marketing continues to evolve, it's clear that the future of mobile is bright – and it's happening now.