India set to have over 1.1 billion 5G subscriptions by 2031: Ericsson

India is projected to have more than 1.1 billion 5G subscriptions by end of 2031, accounting for approximately 81 per cent subscription penetration, according to an Ericsson report. The growth is being fueled by the availability of affordable 5G-enabled smartphones, expanded network coverage across districts, and increasing deployment of 5G Fixed Wireless Access services.

As of end-2025, 5G subscriptions in India reached 430 million, representing 35 per cent of all mobile subscriptions. Meanwhile, 4G subscriptions are expected to decline from around 570 million in 2025 to nearly 160 million by 2031 as users migrate to 5G networks. India continues to lead globally in mobile data consumption, with average monthly usage currently at 37 GB and projected to reach 70 GB by 2031.