Cellular IoT connections forecast to reach 5.1 billion by 2030.

Omdia forecasts cellular IoT connections to reach 5.1 billion by 2030, driven by advancements in 5G technologies, including 5G RedCap. Asia & Oceania is predicted to lead with 80% of global IoT connections by 2024, with the automotive industry being a major contributor to growth.

Title: Omdia Forecasts 5.1 Billion Cellular IoT Connections by 2030

London, July 2, 2025—The cellular IoT market is poised for significant growth, with Omdia predicting that connections will reach 5.1 billion by 2030. This projection is driven by advancements in 5G technologies, particularly 5G RedCap, 5G Massive IoT, and 4G LTE Cat-1bis modules [1].

Key Technologies Driving Growth

5G RedCap is emerging as a crucial mid-tier connectivity solution, positioning itself as an ideal choice for 5G devices that do not require the premium specifications of Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications (uRLLC) or Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB). RedCap offers futureproofing benefits as the industry prepares for the gradual phase-out of 4G networks beyond 2030. Despite its advantages, RedCap adoption has experienced slower initial deployment than anticipated [1].

Regional Leadership in IoT Growth

Asia & Oceania is expected to lead global IoT growth, contributing over 67% of worldwide IoT module shipments and representing approximately 80% of total IoT connections by 2024. The automotive industry, driven by increasing consumer demand for intelligent vehicles with integrated 5G connectivity features, is a significant catalyst in this growth trajectory [1].

Competitive Landscape

AT&T, Inc. is expanding its 5G Reduced Capability (RedCap) network coverage nationwide, with 200 million people now covered. The company is collaborating with various partners to foster advancement in the IoT device ecosystem. AT&T faces competition from T-Mobile US, Inc. and Verizon Communications, Inc. in this market [3].

Conclusion

Omdia's forecast highlights the transformative impact of 5G technologies on the cellular IoT landscape. The expected growth, driven by key technologies and regional leadership, underscores the strategic importance of the cellular IoT market. Investors and financial professionals should closely monitor these trends to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

References

[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/omdia-forecasts-cellular-iot-connections-091500784.html
[2] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250716332297/omdia-forecasts-cellular-iot-connections-to-reach-51-billion-by-2030
[3] https://www.theglobeandmail.com/investing/markets/stocks/TMUS/pressreleases/33499724/att-expands-5g-redcap-coverage-will-it-drive-sustainable-growth/