- The UK now consumes 1.2 billion GB of mobile data monthly, with 5G usage up by over 53% in 2025.
- Full fibre and satellite broadband are also on the rise, contributing to the country’s growing demand for faster internet services.
What happened: Surge in mobile data usage driven by 5G and high-demand services
According to Ofcom’s annual Connected Nations report, UK mobile data usage surged by 18% in 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching an impressive total of 1.2 billion GB per month. This growth in data consumption is largely attributed to the increasing use of high-bandwidth services such as video streaming and social media. To put this into perspective, this amount of data is equivalent to streaming 400 million football matches in HD or sending 1.3 quadrillion text-only WhatsApp messages.
Despite 4G networks still handling the majority of mobile data traffic, 5G data usage saw a remarkable increase of 53% this year. The report highlights that more than 83% of the UK population now has access to full 5G coverage from at least one mobile network, with outdoor 5G coverage expanding to 97% of the country. This rapid expansion of 5G is expected to play a major role in meeting the growing demand for mobile data.
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Why it’s important
The spike in mobile data usage reflects broader trends in digital connectivity and the UK’s increasing reliance on mobile networks for communication, entertainment, and daily tasks. Ofcom’s report indicates that, while traditional landline use continues to decline—over a million households ditched their landlines in the past year—more people are turning to mobile services, such as WhatsApp, for voice calls. This shift aligns with the broader trend of people moving away from legacy infrastructure in favour of more flexible, mobile-first solutions.
In addition, the rise in satellite broadband, including Starlink connections, is helping bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas where fixed-line broadband is limited. Over 110,000 households now use satellite broadband, with many relying on it for faster, more reliable internet access. Meanwhile, full fibre broadband is becoming more widely available, reaching 78% of homes, further boosting the demand for higher-speed connections.
The growing shift towards mobile and broadband services underscores the need for continued investment in network infrastructure to support the UK’s future digital needs, especially as 5G coverage becomes more widespread. As Natalie Black, Ofcom’s Group Director for Infrastructure and Connectivity, noted, “The race to deliver the UK’s full 5G future is on.”
