Network Transformation 2021

This report is available to those subscribed to the Mobile Operators and Networks module.
Strategic agendas for secure, open 5G and 6G networks
The global commercialisation of 5G (and the network investments required) has coincided with the introduction of diverse mobile network innovations such as virtual RAN, open RAN, edge networking and network automation. Combined with new market demands focused on energy efficiency and network security, operator decisions on network transformation strategies have never been more important. Such decision-making is important to the operators themselves, their network infrastructure suppliers and the customers who will rely on the networks of tomorrow. Understanding mobile operator network transformation strategies, then, is a critical foundation for understanding the shape of the mobile industry – today and tomorrow. Our survey of 100+ operators from around the world provides a basis for that, divided into key themes to answer the critical questions facing the mobile ecosystem.
The executive summary and survey details sections outline the most important data points for understanding operator network transformation, the questions asked and how GSMA Intelligence captured the information via its survey.
The network strategies and spending plans section examines the most important, overarching, network transformation priorities for operators and how these are reflected in investments.
The network supplier and technology priorities section considers how operator strategies are reflected in specific technology decisions, key customer demands, the adoption status of priority technologies and how new suppliers are being introduced.
The 5G era planning and requirements section identifies how the introduction of 5G impacts operator RAN investments, core network investments and the introduction of new network suppliers. It also explores the importance and deployment timing of standalone 5G.
The 6G era planning and requirements section analyses expectations around future 6G networks, including expected features, expected device types, value to 5G networks and vendor messaging efforts.
Related research
MWC Shanghai 2025: a window into the future?
MWC Shanghai is in the books for another year, having attracted 45,000 visitors (from 12,500 companies), along with 400 exhibitors and partner groups. The numbers were up from the 2024 event by 13% and 92% respectively. This analysis highlights the key takeaways and implications from meetings, summits and announcements at the event – and in particular, whether the progress seen in China can be mapped to other regions.
GSMA Open Gateway: State of the Market, H1 2025
Representing 285 networks and almost 80% of mobile subscribers worldwide, 73 operator groups are now committed to GSMA Open Gateway. This latest research provides an update on the state of the market, recent developments, and examples of GSMA Open Gateway in action. It also offers a deep dive on supply/demand gap analysis.
The Mobile Economy Latin America 2025
Operators across Latin America are making steady progress on their 5G journey, with adoption forecast to reach more than 50% by 2030. This latest edition of The Mobile Economy Latin America provides an update on key mobile market data and the impact of mobile on the economy across the region.
Authors
How to access this report
Annual subscription: Subscribe to our research modules for comprehensive access to more than 200 reports per year.
Enquire about subscriptionContact our research team
Get in touch with us to find out more about our research topics and analysis.
Contact our research teamMedia
To cite our research, please see our citation policy in our Terms of Use, or contact our Media team for more information.
Learn moreRelated research
MWC Shanghai 2025: a window into the future?
MWC Shanghai is in the books for another year, having attracted 45,000 visitors (from 12,500 companies), along with 400 exhibitors and partner groups. The numbers were up from the 2024 event by 13% and 92% respectively. This analysis highlights the key takeaways and implications from meetings, summits and announcements at the event – and in particular, whether the progress seen in China can be mapped to other regions.
GSMA Open Gateway: State of the Market, H1 2025
Representing 285 networks and almost 80% of mobile subscribers worldwide, 73 operator groups are now committed to GSMA Open Gateway. This latest research provides an update on the state of the market, recent developments, and examples of GSMA Open Gateway in action. It also offers a deep dive on supply/demand gap analysis.
The Mobile Economy Latin America 2025
Operators across Latin America are making steady progress on their 5G journey, with adoption forecast to reach more than 50% by 2030. This latest edition of The Mobile Economy Latin America provides an update on key mobile market data and the impact of mobile on the economy across the region.
- 200 reports a year
- 50 million data points
- Over 350 metrics