Asia-Pacific Wireless Access Subscriptions to Hit 50 Million
The region will see 50 million fixed wireless access connections by 2031 as 5G technology expands broadband availability.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Telecommunications
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GlobalData projects that fixed wireless access (FWA) subscriptions across the Asia-Pacific region will reach 50 million by 2031. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate of 12.5% compared to the 28 million connections recorded in 2026.
Why it matters
The shift toward FWA allows operators to provide reliable broadband for streaming, remote work, and education without the need for expensive fibre-to-home infrastructure. This technology is particularly vital for expanding connectivity in rural and underserved areas.
The forecast anticipates a compound annual growth rate of 12.5% for fixed wireless connections between 2026 and 2031. Operators utilize 5G network capabilities to deliver home broadband services in place of traditional wired infrastructure.
The players
U Mobile
This telecommunications operator provides mobile and wireless services within Malaysia.
MyRepublic Indonesia
This company offers internet and communications services throughout Indonesia.
AIS
Advanced Info Service is a major telecommunications provider based in Thailand.
One NZ
This entity provides telecommunications services and infrastructure across New Zealand.
The details
Companies such as U Mobile, MyRepublic Indonesia, AIS, and One NZ are leveraging 5G to extend their service reach into new markets. By utilizing wireless signals, these providers avoid the technical and financial hurdles of installing physical fibre cables to individual homes.
Timeline
Fixed wireless access connections in the region totaled 28 million as of 2026.
Subscriptions are forecast to reach 50 million by 2031.
The Tech Race
The expansion of fixed wireless access follows the widespread deployment of 5G mobile network architecture to replace legacy wired broadband solutions. This transition positions mobile operators to compete directly with traditional ISPs by reducing the time and cost required to connect remote users.
Consumers in underserved areas may gain access to high-speed home broadband without waiting for traditional fibre infrastructure to be installed. This enables improved access to cloud applications, online education, and remote work tools in previously limited markets.
The takeaway
The growth of fixed wireless access demonstrates that 5G is becoming a primary solution for closing the digital divide in rural regions. Residents in expanding markets should monitor local provider rollouts to determine if wireless broadband is a viable alternative to existing legacy services.
Further reading
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