European Telcos Boost 5G Mobile Core Revenue to Record High
Revenue from European telcos' 5G mobile core networks reached a new record high in Q2 2026, despite a broader market slowdown in network investments.
Revenue generated by European telecommunications operators from their 5G mobile core networks reached a new record in the second quarter of 2026. The findings are detailed in a report published by Dell'Oro Group, a provider of market information for the telecommunications, security, network, and data center industries.
The report indicates that growth in 5G core network sales offset a contraction in overall market spending on network infrastructure. This contraction was primarily driven by reduced investments in earlier generation technologies, such as IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem).
Dell'Oro Group analysts observed a significant increase in sales for 5G core infrastructure. While the overall growth rate for network equipment sales decelerated, investments in 5G technology, particularly its core components, remained strong.
The market trend reflects a strategic shift within the telecommunications sector, with operators prioritizing 5G to enhance network capacity and enable future services like advanced IoT applications and enhanced mobile experiences. The growth in 5G core networks presents new business avenues as investment in older technologies declines.