Global 6G connections could reach about 2.4 billion by 2035, according to a new forecast by GSMA Intelligence, signalling the potential scale of the next generation of mobile connectivity. The technology is expected to begin moving towards commercial deployment towards the end of the decade, following continued research and development by telecommunications operators, equipment manufacturers and technology companies.
The projected growth would make 6G a major development in the evolution of mobile communications, building on the capabilities of existing 5G networks. Beyond faster connections, the next generation of mobile technology is expected to support more advanced applications involving artificial intelligence, connected devices, immersive digital experiences and increasingly automated industrial systems.
For countries such as Nigeria, the emergence of 6G also raises questions about infrastructure readiness, spectrum management, investment and digital inclusion. The country is still expanding access to existing broadband and 5G services, meaning preparations for future generations of connectivity will need to take account of the significant infrastructure and investment requirements involved.
The projected 2.4 billion connections therefore point not only to a technological transition but also to a potential shift in how people, businesses and machines interact with digital networks. For Nigeria and other developing economies, the challenge will be to ensure that advances in mobile technology translate into wider economic and social opportunities rather than deepen the existing digital divide.