Cumulative radio access network (RAN) revenues for 2021-2026 are forecast to touch $250 billion, reflecting improved 5G business.

RAN investments will slow after the peak MBB phase just as it has with other technology rollouts. “But the upside, with enterprises and government stimulus coupled with the number of 5G networks to support MBB, will curb the downside and extend the longevity of the 5G cycle,” Stefan Pongratz, Vice President and analyst with the Dell’Oro Group, said.

RAN excluding China is projected to grow while Chinese RAN market is expected to peak in 2021/2022 before decelerating in the outer part of the forecast period.

The sub-6 GHz spectrum continues to deliver the most compelling RAN economics. But the outlook for mmWave 5G NR remains favorable – the total mmWave market is projected to advance 3-fold between 2020 and 2026.

Global Massive MIMO growth prospects are expected to slow, reflecting challenging comparisons in some of the advanced Massive MIMO markets.

Small cell RAN revenues are projected to grow at a 5 percent CAGR, underpinned by healthy 5G growth.