The annual GSMA report examines the transformation of the mobile sector across AI, cybersecurity, eSIM and business digitalisation.
The 2026 edition of the GSMA report The Mobile Economy shows that the mobile economy continues to grow globally. With a contribution equivalent to 6.4% of global GDP in 2025 and a projected increase to 8.4% by 2030, it remains a significant driver of global economic development. However, the report also highlights that growth in the sector depends less and less on traditional connectivity and increasingly on operators’ ability to position themselves in new high value-added services. Among the various trends examined, from eSIM to business digitalisation, the growing importance of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence stands out. These are no longer seen solely as levers to improve internal efficiency, but as new strategic pillars for business development: 45% of operators already regard artificial intelligence as a priority for generating new revenues, through AI monetisation, a sign of a transition that is reshaping the business model of the entire sector.
Author: GSMA
Publisher: GSMA
Publication date: March 2026