T-Mobile US has introduced its first 5G reduced capability (RedCap) device – a TCL USB-C dongle that allows devices to connect to its 5G standalone network. The operator also revealed a partnership with energy contractor Miller Electric Company to use private 5G for connecting a fleet of autonomous vehicles. Meanwhile, Verizon has announced a plan to double its FWA subscriber base by 2028, having achieved its previous target of 4 million subscribers 15 months ahead of schedule.
Operators are exploring various opportunities in the 5G era. 5G FWA has gained a foothold in the US, where it is set to account for 10% of total fixed broadband connections by the end of 2024, according to GSMA Intelligence data . US operators are also investing in 5G RedCap to enable lower-complexity, more affordable 5G devices in categories such as dongles, creating new revenue streams in both the consumer and enterprise markets. Additionally, private 5G solutions are increasingly providing enterprises with tailored connectivity solutions, helping operators address the $400 billion B2B revenue opportunity recently highlighted by GSMA Intelligence research.