6G

Dell’Oro Group’s 6G Advanced Research Report provides a 10-year forecast of the global RAN market, tracking the evolution from 2G through 6G by spectrum, Massive MIMO, region, and RF power. The research examines market size, deployment strategies, leading regions, and spectrum trends shaping future 6G rollouts.

Research scope

The transition from 5G to 6G represents the next phase in the evolution of wireless networks. Unlike prior generational shifts, the 6G era is expected to unfold within a more disciplined investment environment, shaped by changing traffic dynamics, evolving use cases, and a greater emphasis on efficiency.

Dell’Oro Group’s analysis points to a more balanced outlook:

6G is happening. The conversation has shifted from if to how. 6G RAN investments are expected to start ramping toward the end of the decade, though total capex will likely be more disciplined relative to previous technology rollouts.
RAN is not a growth market. Constrained operator revenue growth will continue to impact RAN investments.
Future growth will increasingly depend on new revenue streams beyond MBB, including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), private wireless, and mission-critical applications.

Why it matters

Even with more balanced expectations, 6G remains a major opportunity. Rather than a step-function revenue driver, Dell’Oro Group’s analysis frames 6G as a capital-efficient evolution shaped by real-world constraints and emerging opportunities.

For Vendors

portfolio alignment must prioritize TCO and performance for existing use cases while preparing for opportunities beyond MBB.

For operators

investment strategies must balance long-term opportunities with near-term ROI discipline.

For Investors

the base case is that 6G is happening, but its impact on market growth will likely be more measured than previous generational transitions—creating opportunities for suppliers and operators that can differentiate.