5G in the US: Video Streaming Emerges as the Next Big Killer App

At Mobile World Congress and other industry forums, the recurring question is simple yet profound: What’s the next big thing for 5G? As a seasoned editor in the IoT space, I’ve seen predictions swing from gaming to mobile money to video messaging. Yet the latest data from IHS Markit points to a single, unmistakable winner.

Video Streaming Tops the Forecast

IHS Markit’s Digital Orbit research, based on a survey of 2,031 U.S. respondents (May 22‑27, 2021), reports that 78% of consumers expect to increase their video streaming activity as they adopt 5G. In the ranking of anticipated 5G use‑cases, video streaming leads by a clear margin ahead of video calling, social media, mobile gaming, and both virtual and augmented reality.

The report projects that by 2022, video usage will account for 70% of mobile network traffic—up from 47% in 2015—underscoring the explosive growth trajectory. 4K ultra‑high‑definition (UHD) content is poised to benefit most, thanks to 5G’s higher bandwidth and lower latency. Live sports and events, where real‑time performance is critical, are expected to see the greatest adoption.

Home 5G Drives Streaming Adoption

Beyond mobile, 5G’s fixed‑wireless access (FWA) is set to transform home broadband. Consumers are attracted to FWA for its faster speeds and ease of deployment, offering a compelling alternative to DSL, cable, or fiber. This home‑networking capability further amplifies the potential reach of 5G‑enhanced video services.

While the enthusiasm is understandable, it’s worth remembering that the most profitable technologies often emerge from unexpected niches. History reminds us that consumer demand doesn’t always predict market success—think SMS in the 1990s or the leap from mobile phones to tablets with the iPad in 2010. Thus, while video streaming appears poised to lead, operators and investors should remain vigilant and avoid over‑concentration on a single application.

IHS Markit’s Digital Orbit report summarizes the survey results on U.S. consumer perceptions of 5G and intended use cases. Conducted May 22‑27, 2021, the study included 2,031 respondents, 95% of whom were U.S.-based, with a median age of 43 and 63% residing in urban areas.

Jeremy Cowan, Editorial Director of VanillaPlus and IoT Now, brings years of industry experience to these insights.