Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity
5G Advanced
Radio Access Network (RAN) with AI
Tech Horizon offers a visual assessment of 18 connectivity technologies, classifying them as "above the line" (delivering strong performance) or "below the line" (underperforming) relative to market expectations. This gives operators and vendors a clear, data-driven view of which innovations are delivering value and which are falling behind.
"Enterprise demand for connectivity is not only growing, but also becoming more diverse," says Sam Barker, Vice President of Telecom Market Research. "Telecom market players need to stay alert to both emerging disruptive technologies and those that Juniper Research believes are gradually losing relevance."
The three most innovative technologies in
AI RAN connectivity: Positioned as a revolutionary advancement in intelligent network automation, AI RAN will drive significant efficiency gains and operational savings. Juniper Research forecasts $21 billion in operator investment in AI technologies this year.
Direct-to-Device (D2D): Moving from the pilot phase to early commercial deployment, D2D will extend mobile coverage to remote and underserved regions without the need for costly new infrastructure.
5G Advanced: Acting as a bridge to 6G, 5G Advanced will deliver greater uplink capacity, AI-native network management, and new enterprise-grade applications that will redefine the value of 5G.
The report also identifies underperforming technologies, such as legacy 5G and NB-IoT, and highlights instances where expectations have outpaced real-world adoption.
