Next-Generation Wireless Networks

OVERVIEW

5G network deployments are well underway and networks are becoming disaggregated. The research in this programme provides communications service providers (CSPs) and vendors with insights into how the new architecture, such as OpenRAN and vRAN, will deliver 5G use cases.

Our research also determines how CSPs should seek to benefit from their investments and take advantage of 5G's features, such as network slicing and ultra-low latency enabled by the combination of the new 5G standalone core and edge computing, and what vendors can do to help them.

KEY THEMES

• How 5G and LTE-A are progressing towards delivering a gigabit mobile and fixed-wireless access service.

• Opportunities arising from mobile network virtualisation, including cloud-RAN, edge computing, network slicing and the migration to 5G standalone core.

• 5G standards, open-source solutions and related activities, and continuing assessments of how, and when, 5G will be deployed.

• Opportunities from early use cases for 5G, including IoT, indoor coverage, fixed-wireless access and eMBB.

RECENTLY PUBLISHED

Strategy reports: key issues

• Profiting from vRAN: vendor strategies for adapting to new MNO buying patterns

• MNO and vendor strategies for deploying the cloud-native 5G core

• IMS: vendors must support MNOs' voice services' strategies on the road to 5G standalone

• WRC-19: lack of C-band spectrum harmonisation

• Rapid migration or future flexibility: conflicting priorities for 5G non-standalone deployments

• Opportunities and threats for operators in the edge computing value chain

Forecasts, datasets and primary research

• 5G deployment tracker 1Q 2020

• Virtual packet core deployments: worldwide forecast 2019-2023

• Radio access networks: worldwide forecast 2019-2023

• Radio access networks and small cells: worldwide market shares 2018

• Mobile capex: worldwide trends and forecasts 2017-2025

COMING IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS

Strategy reports: key issues

• Mobile opex reductions and vendor ramifications

• 5G SA core networks and CSP migration challenges

• Huawei and mobile network operators' 5G engagements with port authorities will improve operations

• Case studies on next-generation wireless deployments at MNOs around the world

Forecasts, datasets and primary research

• Next-generation wireless: packet core forecast 2020-2025

• Radio access network vendor market share: 2019

• Radio access networks: worldwide forecast 2020-2025

• Mobile capex: worldwide trends and forecasts 2019-2025

• Private LTE networks: worldwide trends and forecasts 2019-2025

• Case studies

• Vendor profiles