The digital consumer in 2026: how consumer behaviour is changing across 5G, AI, eSIM, devices and content

Several dynamics have either emerged or intensified, materially altering the strategic role of the mobile core. These shifts demand a fresh review of how mobile core networks are evolving – and how they must continue to evolve. The mobile core remains an enabling layer. At the same time, it is becoming an intelligent, adaptive platform that will shape how operators compete, differentiate and grow in the AI era – as long as operators know how to put it to use and evolve its capabilities.

By investing in AI factories, telecoms operators can leverage their infrastructure, traffic, customer base and regulatory positioning to capture a meaningful share of the expanding AI and cloud revenue pool. Scenario analysis suggests AI factories could deliver an incremental uplift of 1.5–6.0% to total operator revenues, depending on execution and market share capture. This represents a meaningful growth lever in an otherwise mature industry.

This edition of GSMA Intelligence's Chart of the Month looks at major operators' progress with revenues beyond traditional core telecoms. The GSMA Intelligence Chart of the Month is a visual way of telling an important story in the mobile and broader tech ecosystem. From the shape and size of markets to trends in consumer behaviour, we aim to provide food for thought through informative visuals designed to bring colour and clarity to complex issues facing the industry.