SOURCE RESEARCH
Network Technology and Market Tracker
Market Data | 3Q 2026 | MD-NWMT-109
Get The ReportABI Research modeling indicates that total mobile network Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) will remain relatively stable between 2024 and 2031, hovering around US$140 billion annually. Mobile Service Providers (MSPs) in the United States and China will account for by far the most spending. For a more granular view, ABI Research analysts broke down CAPEX projections by technology category. Three key findings stand out:
- Core network CAPEX is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.2% between 2026 and 2031. This growth will be driven primarily by the rollout of 5G Standalone (SA) and 5G-Advanced, which require more sophisticated core networks to support network slicing, ultra-low latency, and other advanced capabilities.
- Radio Access Network (RAN) CAPEX is expected to decline between 2024 and 2028 before rebounding in 2029 as initial 6G deployments commence. The initial decline will be driven by two key factors: the slowdown in 5G network deployments and the increasing adoption of network sharing arrangements to improve cost efficiency.
- Mobile in-building wireless CAPEX is expected to reach nearly US$12 billion by 2031, representing a CAGR of 2.1%.
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