As of the latest findings from the Bundesnetzagentur, Germany’s stride towards a comprehensive 5G network has seen remarkable progress throughout 2023. The country now boasts 90% coverage by at least one network operator as of October, marking a significant leap from the approximate 79% coverage recorded just a year prior. Major telecom giants—Deutsche Telekom, Telefónica, and Vodafone Deutschland—are at the forefront of this expansion, each offering 5G connectivity to between 59% and 77% of the German populace. To tap into the benefits of 5G, users are reminded that a compatible device and specific contract are necessary.
Enhanced User Experience with More 5G Measurement Points
The Bundesnetzagentur’s commitment to enhancing mobile connectivity is further highlighted in their broadband and dead spot checker app, where a noticeable uptick in 5G usage has been observed. As of October 2023, approximately 25% of all broadband test measurements were made over 5G networks, up from 17% the previous year. Despite the surge in 5G adoption, 4G remains the dominant technology but has seen a slight decline in its share of measurements, dropping from 77% to around 70%.
The Evolution of 5G Deployment
Germany’s 5G network deployment has unfolded in several phases. Initially, the focus was on integrating 5G capabilities into the existing 4G infrastructure with dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS), creating what is known as non-standalone (NSA) 5G networks. This approach allowed for a flexible allocation of spectrum resources between 4G and 5G based on real-time demand.
The journey towards an even more efficient and faster network continues with the shift towards standalone (SA) 5G infrastructure, which exclusively relies on 5G technology for both radio access and core network operations. This shift promises users enhanced coverage and, generally, higher data speeds.
Access to Data and Further Information
For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of Germany’s mobile communications advancements and the broadband testing results, a wealth of data and detailed insights are readily accessible on the Gigabit Register’s website at gigabitgrundbuch.bund.de.
This year’s achievements in 5G rollout underscore Germany’s commitment to advancing its digital infrastructure, ensuring that its citizens and businesses are well-equipped for the demands of the modern digital era.
