Sixth-generation mobile technology could account for approximately 2.4 billion connections worldwide by 2035, according to GSMA Intelligence, signalling another major investment cycle for the global telecommunications industry.
The forecast suggests that 6G adoption will begin gradually before accelerating during the first half of the 2030s.
GSMA Intelligence expects approximately 50 million 6G connections by the end of 2030, representing just 0.5 per cent of the global mobile connection base.
That figure is projected to rise to 275 million in 2031 and nearly 740 million in 2032.
Connections are expected to exceed one billion in 2033, reaching approximately 1.3 billion before increasing to 1.9 billion in 2034 and 2.4 billion in 2035.
5G Will Continue Dominating Network Investment
Despite the projections, 6G is not expected to replace 5G immediately.
Operators will spend much of the remaining 2020s expanding existing 5G coverage and upgrading network capabilities.
That includes deploying 5G Standalone infrastructure and introducing 5G-Advanced features.
These developments are expected to create technological foundations that could support the transition to sixth-generation networks.
The implication is that telecommunications companies must balance investment in today’s networks with preparation for future technology.
What 6G Could Mean for Telecoms
Each new mobile generation generally aims to improve network capabilities and enable additional applications.
However, the commercial value of 6G will depend on more than theoretical technical performance.
Operators must identify services capable of generating sufficient revenue to justify investment in new infrastructure.
The industry will also need compatible devices, established standards and commercially viable deployment models.
The GSMA forecast indicates the expected scale of adoption, but it does not mean that 2.4 billion people will necessarily use 6G by 2035.
A connection count measures active connections, which may include more than one connection associated with an individual or organisation.
Africa Faces Different Starting Conditions
For African telecommunications markets, the forecast highlights both opportunity and a potential investment challenge.
Many operators are still expanding 4G services while introducing 5G in selected locations.
Affordability, electricity supply, fibre connectivity and access to compatible devices remain important factors influencing adoption.
That means African markets may not follow the same transition timetable as wealthier telecommunications markets.
For operators, investing in future technology must be balanced against the immediate need to improve coverage and service quality.
Nigeria Must Strengthen Digital Infrastructure
Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has considerable long-term potential because of its large population and expanding demand for mobile data.
However, advanced networks depend on strong underlying infrastructure.
High-capacity fibre, dependable electricity and sufficient investment capital will remain important.
As mobile technology becomes more sophisticated, network quality will increasingly depend on how effectively those supporting systems operate.
Device Affordability Will Influence Adoption
The transition to 6G will also require consumers and businesses to obtain compatible devices.
Even where networks are available, adoption may remain limited if suitable smartphones and other equipment are too expensive.
This has been an important consideration during previous mobile-network transitions.
Operators will therefore need to assess not only network deployment costs but also the readiness of consumers and businesses to use new services.
Forecast Signals Long-Term Opportunity
GSMA Intelligence’s projections suggest that 6G could develop into a substantial global telecommunications market within a decade.
But the figures remain forecasts, not confirmed future outcomes.
Actual adoption will depend on technology standards, investment decisions, device availability and customer demand.
For Nigeria and other African markets, the immediate priority remains building strong, affordable and reliable digital infrastructure.
That foundation will determine how effectively the region can participate when the next generation of mobile connectivity becomes commercially available.
