Increased 5G Adoption to Drive Mobile Gaming Growth in India

5G adoption in India is set to see significant growth in the near future. A new global survey conducted by Ericsson Consumer Lab reveals that over 30 million smartphone users in India could be exchanging their 4G devices for 5G phones by the end of the year. As India is a mobile-centric gaming market, this could give the country’s mobile gaming market a substantial boost.

31 million smartphone users in India may upgrade to 5G in 2023

The recent Ericsson Consumer Lab's Global Survey revealed that 5G adoption in India is growing at a rapid rate. The study indicated that almost 31 million users in India are expected to get 5G smartphones by the end of 2023. 5G penetration in the country has grown, driving users’ wish to upgrade from 4G. Due to low data tariffs and the affordability of smartphones, among others, data traffic has surged, causing the need for more bandwidth to access the internet without interruptions.

To enjoy a smoother online experience and take advantage of 5G-optimized offers, 39% of consumers are open to paying more for higher data allowance on 5G plans. The survey also unveiled that users are seeking elevated and consistent network performance and differentiated Quality of Service (QoS). Indian users are also willing to pay a premium for specific 5G services, such as 5G-optimized mobile gaming, among others. 5G adoption is already on the rise, with 5G smartphones accounting for a record 50% of total smartphone shipments in the country over the last year. This trend offers opportunities for the mobile gaming market in India to continue on its upward trajectory.

India is a mobile-centric gaming market

The gaming market in India mainly revolves around the mobile gaming segment, with more than 96% of gamers playing on mobile devices. Currently valued at around $2.6 billion, the mobile gaming market has seen tremendous growth and is projected to reach $8.6 billion in revenues by the end of 2027, according to a recent market report by MoEngage in collaboration with AppsFlyer and AppsTweak.

Several reasons cause ongoing growth, the largest drivers being increased smartphone penetration, affordability of smartphones, low data costs, and improved internet connectivity. An increased usage of powerful premium smartphones, which grew 112% YoY in Q2 2023, further drives the growth of mobile gaming. The increased popularity of various game genres adds to this. Games spanning from hyper-casual and casual to real money gaming and video games such as BGMI are seeing success in the region and thus reaching a wider audience of various demographics. 5G could see this segment increase in popularity.

5G to enhance mobile gaming

Significantly reducing download times for apps and minimizing lag and latency, 5G improves the gaming experience on mobile devices. Lightning-fast internet benefits gamers of any kind, no matter if they are playing casual games or “hardcore” video games. In titles such as PUBG: Battlegrounds (BGMI) or Call of Duty: Mobile, two of the most popular mobile games in India as listed by Red Bull, fast internet is crucial. 5G connectivity can give gamers the advantage of detecting enemies as they approach in real-time when lags due to slower internet connections could mean defeat.

5G also allows for better casual gaming experiences. Downloading free games from the app stores is incredibly convenient, allowing users to easily try different games with the tap of a button. However, download times can form a barrier and cause dissatisfaction. 5G ensures minimal download times, so start playing immediately. When playing casual and classic games online, 5G also positively affects the gaming experience.

Many users play classic games such as Rummy and Ludo online and connect with friends and fellow players around the world to play. A fast and reliable 5G internet connection allows for interruption-free game rounds. In the sector of online casino games, 5G can also have a positive effect. Many of the best-rated casino platforms in different regions around the world as listed on CasinoBonusCA offer so-called live casino games where players get connected with a real dealer via a live video. For such game offerings, a fast internet connection is essential to achieve customer satisfaction. With the increased 5G penetration, mobile gaming would become even more attractive and easily accessible, thus driving this segment’s growth further.

5G adoption in India is on the rise. This could have a major effect on the Indian mobile gaming market. As it’s already a mobile-centric country, widespread 5G adoption could boost the segment’s growth significantly.

(Disclaimer: Devdiscourse's journalists were not involved in the production of this article. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Devdiscourse and Devdiscourse does not claim any responsibility for the same.)