WASHINGTON — Americans consumed just over 100 trillion megabytes (TB) of wireless data in 2023, marking a 36% increase from the previous year and the largest single-year surge in data usage to date. This substantial rise, totaling 26 trillion MBs more than in 2022, reflects the widespread adoption of 5G technology and an expanding range of wireless devices, according to a survey released by the CTIA, the wireless industry association representing major carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and various technology firms.
The survey highlights that the number of wireless connections grew to 558 million last year, a 6% increase from 2022. This surge in data consumption is driven by advancements in technology, including drones, self-driving vehicles, space missions, and precision agriculture, all of which are placing increasing demands on wireless spectrum.
Despite the rise in data usage, the amount of time Americans spent talking on the phone decreased slightly from 2.5 trillion minutes in 2022 to 2.4 trillion minutes in 2023. Text messaging volumes remained stable at approximately 2.1 trillion messages.
The increase in wireless data usage comes amidst ongoing debates in Congress over spectrum allocation. In March 2023, Congress allowed the Federal Communications Commission’s authority to auction spectrum to expire for the first time in 30 years. This lapse has sparked discussions about how spectrum currently used by the Defense Department might be repurposed or shared.
“There is no pipeline of spectrum for 5G,” warned CTIA CEO Meredith Attwell Baker. “To continue to meet the insatiable demand for wireless, drive innovation, and support America’s economic competitiveness, the wireless industry needs access to more full-power, licensed spectrum.”
In response to the growing demand, the Biden administration announced in November 2023 plans to free up additional wireless spectrum by repurposing portions currently reserved for federal use. However, this move has faced criticism from Republicans for its perceived lack of urgency.
As the debate continues, the demand for wireless data and the need for additional spectrum remain pressing issues for the industry and policymakers alike.
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