4G LTE: the mobile broadband foundation of tomorrow

Operator capex plans and expectations make it clear that 5G network rollout is a key priority. In the period from 2020 to 2025, GSMA Intelligence forecasts 80% of capex spent on mobile networks will be attributable to 5G. The industry focus on 5G, however, obscures an important reality: 4G LTE will continue to grow and do much of the heavy lifting for the mobile broadband industry through the near and medium term. This is reflected in the magnitude of 4G LTE connections, traffic and use cases. Technology innovations will continue to keep LTE relevant, but it is important to understand the drivers for continued LTE investment.