Narayan AmmachchiThe number of 5G connections in Latin America reached 76 million in 2024, nearly doubling from 38.5 million in 2023, according to 5G Americas.
The rollout of 5G networks is progressing at a faster pace than 4G LTE at a comparable stage of deployment.
Despite this rapid expansion, 4G LTE remains the dominant mobile technology in the region, with 593 million users—accounting for 74% of all mobile connections.
However, projections indicate that 5G adoption will continue to accelerate, with the technology expected to represent 55% of all mobile connections by 2030.
Brazil leads the region in 5G adoption, driven by increased competition among telecom operators. The country has the largest assigned spectrum (1,060 MHz) and is projected to achieve 57.67% network coverage by 2027.
Chile, the first country in Latin America to activate a 5G network, now has over 2 million 5G users. By the end of 2022, the country had achieved 82% progress in its 5G network deployment.
Meanwhile, Uruguay, which pioneered 5G implementation through its state-owned operator Antel, is facing challenges in expanding coverage.
Currently, Latin America has 53 commercial 5G networks in operation alongside 134 4G LTE networks, reflecting the region’s ongoing transition to next-generation connectivity.
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