India Tops Global Mobile Data Consumption

The latest Ericsson Mobility Report indicates that India has achieved the highest level of mobile data consumption globally. Currently, the average smartphone user in India utilises an impressive 36 GB of data per month. This remarkable statistic not only positions India at the forefront worldwide but also highlights a significant and rapid evolution in the country’s interaction with digital technology.

Projecting Future Data Consumption Trends

The burgeoning demand for digital media is anticipated to rise even further. Analysts predict that the monthly data use per user will almost double, soaring to 65 GB by the year 2031. This substantial growth trajectory is primarily driven by the swift deployment and adoption of 5G technology, alongside an expanding market for Fixed Wireless Access (FWA). Data consumption patterns in India, in conjunction with mainland China, have been key influencers of the 20 per cent increase in global mobile network data traffic observed between the third quarter of 2024 and 2025.

Rapid Adoption of 5G Technology

India’s transition to 5G is advancing remarkably fast. The report forecasts that by the end of 2025, 5G subscriptions will reach 394 million, representing 32% of all mobile connections in the country. By the conclusion of the decade, this number is expected to exceed 1 billion, capturing 79% of the total market share and reinforcing India’s status as a pivotal global telecommunications centre.

Affordable 5G FWA Devices Driving Growth

The increase in cost-effective 5G FWA devices is significantly contributing to this surge. This technology, which offers high-speed broadband access, is continuously boosting data traffic growth, with combined connections from major service providers such as Jio and Airtel already surpassing 12 million.

Looking Ahead to 6G and Connectivity

Furthermore, the Ericsson Mobility Report even speculates on the future of connectivity, anticipating that global 6G subscriptions could reach 180 million by 2031. Nevertheless, the primary focus at this moment remains on the extensive challenge of infrastructure optimisation and the investment necessary to ensure quality service amidst India’s remarkable increase in data consumption, thereby supporting its digital evolution.