In 2028, videos will represent 80% of all data traffic on the global 'mobile' network, the boost coming from streaming services and platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.
This is highlighted by the new Ericsson Mobility Report, which underlines how 5G subscriptions are destined to exceed one billion by the end of this year and five billion by the end of 2028, "despite the economic challenges that emerge in many parts of the world".
The report predicts that as early as 2022, video will make up around 70% of all data traffic on the mobile network.
According to Ericsson's analysis, streaming video from the top four social media platforms accounts for 40-95% of video traffic.
10-30% of global traffic is video-on-demand streaming.
The measurements were made in some commercial 4G and 5G networks in Europe, Asia and America.
Social generates the second type of mobile traffic, with a share of about 9% this year.
The adoption of augmented and virtual reality devices and applications "has the potential to significantly change the volumes of different types of mobile traffic."
The Mobility Report also shows the growth of 5G subscriptions, with North America and Northeast Asia in the lead.
Globally, nearly 230 operators have launched 5G services to date, and more than 700 5G smartphone models have been announced or launched.
