Ookla Report: MmWave 5G Networks Are Growing

Why It Matters

The resurgence of mmWave gives carriers a high‑capacity tool for crowded hotspots, potentially unlocking new revenue streams and reinforcing their competitive edge in 5G. Its adoption—or lack thereof—by handset makers will shape the pace of ultra‑fast mobile services in the U.S.

Key Takeaways

• Verizon's mmWave markets grew from 75 to 91 in 2025
• AT&T's mmWave tests increased 20% in dense urban areas
• Over 60% of mmWave growth occurred in cities like Boston and Atlanta
• Apple removed mmWave from latest U.S. iPhones, showing ambivalence
• Japan, India, Canada expanding mmWave to boost high‑density coverage

Pulse Analysis

The latest Ookla analysis underscores a subtle shift in 5G strategy: carriers are revisiting millimeter‑wave spectrum after years of focus on mid‑band C‑band. While mmWave’s limited propagation distance once made it seem impractical for broad coverage, its raw throughput—often exceeding 1 Gbps—remains unmatched for dense environments such as stadiums, transit hubs, and downtown corridors. By layering mmWave onto existing low‑ and mid‑band layers, operators can create a heterogeneous network that delivers both reach and capacity, a model that mirrors the early "wireless fiber" promise of the technology.

For Verizon and AT&T, the expansion translates into tangible business opportunities. Higher peak speeds enable premium data plans, support for AR/VR experiences, and new edge‑computing services that require low latency and high bandwidth. However, the economics hinge on device compatibility; Apple’s decision to drop mmWave from its newest U.S. models introduces a supply‑side constraint that could slow consumer uptake. Competing Android OEMs that retain mmWave support may gain a niche advantage, prompting carriers to negotiate favorable spectrum pricing and infrastructure sharing to offset deployment costs.

Globally, the narrative diverges. Japan, India, and Canada are actively allocating additional mmWave blocks, viewing the band as a catalyst for next‑generation mobile experiences in megacities. Their aggressive rollout could accelerate handset innovation, driving economies of scale that eventually lower costs for U.S. manufacturers. As the industry balances spectrum economics, device strategy, and consumer demand, mmWave’s role in the 5G ecosystem—and its potential bridge to 6G—will likely become a decisive factor in shaping the future of high‑speed mobile connectivity.