European 5G scoreboard

Overview of 5G developments

This page provides an overview of the state of 5G in the European Union. Below you will find maps and charts about 5G population coverage, 5G rollout and 5G spectrum awards.

Map: 5G coverage

Darker green indicates higher coverage

≤20% ≥20% 40% 60% 80% 100%

72% population coverage achieved in EU27

Please note: Overall coverage is a general indicator that does not presume any particular quality of service measures. All 5G coverage is included, including that using dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS). Location covered by at least one operator.

Sources: Data on population coverage, base stations and spectrum assignments is from the DESI index. This data is supplemented with data independently collected by the Observatory

Chart: 5G base stations as a percentage of existing 4G base stations

Total of 256,074 5G base stations by end of 2021 in EU27

Please note: Only the total number of 5G base stations is known for some EU countries. This means the true total number of base stations in the EU in 700 MHz, 3.6 GHz or DSS bands may be higher. Excludes Italy, Estonia and Sweden as there was no base station data available. Additionally, some countries use bands that are not included in this chart and do not operate using a DSS configuration.

Chart: Percentage of pioneer bands assigned

62% of pioneer bands assigned

Please note: Countries need to assign 60 MHz in 700 MHz; 400 MHz in 3.6 GHz and 1000 MHz in 26 GHz to receive a 100% score.

Map: Pioneer bands assigned by country

Please note: Countries need to assign 60 MHz in 700 MHz; 400 MHz in 3.6 GHz and 1000 MHz in 26 GHz to receive a 100% score. 

Latest News in Europe

Emerging operator 1&1 to launch OpenRAN network

The German company says it will launch its own network on December 8th.

EU 5G and 6G funding initiative announces 2024 work programme

The Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking (SNS JU) programme earmarks €129 million in funding for 6G projects.

Tele2 Latvia 5G data consumption grows

The mobile operator says consumption of mobile data in its 5G network has grown 13x this year.

Latvia auctions more 3.6 GHz band spectrum

An additional 50 MHz has been assigned to local operators Tele2 and LMT.

5G Observatory releases annual stakeholder workshop summary

If you missed the workshop first held on the 26th of October, a summary report is now available for download.

Orange Spain to use 5G for fire prevention

The mobile operator will use a combination of technologies to prevent fires at agricultural sites and warehouses.

4iG promises to boost 5G investment

The Hungarian telecoms firm has signed an agreement the the Government to expand its network.

Netherlands opens up 3.6 GHz band for local 5G networks

Local 5G network permits will be available from December 2023.

Vodafone Germany accelerates 5G deployment near railways

Vodafone says it has built over 225 new mobile masts since the start of the year.

All news in Europe
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