India’s 5G Users to Surpass 1.1 Billion by 2031, Driven by Affordable 5G-Enabled Smartphones: Report

Written by: Team Angel OneUpdated on: 16 Jun 2026, 9:42 pm IST
India's telecom market is expected to see 1.1 billion 5G subscriptions by 2031, while average monthly mobile data usage reaches 70 GB.
India’s 5G Users
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India could have more than 1.1 billion 5G subscriptions by the end of 2031, with the technology accounting for 81% of total mobile connections, according to The Economic Times, citing the latest Ericsson Mobility Report.  

The estimate is indicative of the continued expansion of 5G networks and a growing number of compatible smartphones in the market. 

Mobile Data Consumption on the Rise 

The report projects average monthly mobile data usage per smartphone to increase from 37 GB in 2025 to 70 GB by 2031.  

India is expected to remain the largest market globally on this measure, as video streaming, social media and digital services continue to drive internet usage across the country. 

4G Subscriber Base to Shrink 

At the end of 2025, India had around 430 million 5G subscriptions, making up 35% of total mobile subscriptions. In comparison, 4G remained the largest network technology with a 46% share. 

The report estimates that 4G subscriptions will decline from around 570 million in 2025 to nearly 160 million by 2031 as users gradually move to 5G networks. The shift is to continue over the forecast period as network coverage expands further. 

Global 5G Subscribers Rise 

Worldwide, 5G subscriptions reached 3.1 billion during the first quarter of 2026 after crossing the 3-billion mark. Ericsson expects the global figure to rise to 6.4 billion by the end of 2031. 

The report also notes that higher demand from artificial intelligence applications and other data-intensive services will increase pressure on mobile networks in the coming years. 

Read MoreIndia Raises Export Levies on Diesel and ATF from June 16, 2026! 

Conclusion 

By 2031, 5G is projected to account for the majority of mobile subscriptions in India, with mobile data usage continuing to grow as users transition to newer networks. 

For daily market updates and regular stock market news in Hindi, stay tuned to Angel One's share market news in Hindi. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.   
 
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Published on: Jun 16, 2026, 4:11 PM IST

Team Angel One

Team Angel One is a group of experienced financial writers that deliver insightful articles on the stock market, IPO, economy, personal finance, commodities and related categories.

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