Research reference · Primary sources

Mobile connectivity statistics for travel research

Connectivity headlines can hide large differences between countries. This reference separates internet use, network coverage and subscriptions so travel writers can cite the right measure.

Compiled by Tavi · Published 2026-09-14 · Content updated 2026-09-14 · Sources checked 2026-09-14

Which figures can I cite?

Selected statistics, with the reporting period and population attached to every figure.

6 billion

People using the internet

Worldwide

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

2.2 billion

People still offline

Worldwide

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

Around 3 billion

5G mobile-broadband subscriptions

Subscriptions, not unique people

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

55%

Population within 5G coverage

Worldwide

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

84%

Population within 5G coverage

High-income countries

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

4%

Population within 5G coverage

Low-income countries

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

94%

People using the internet

High-income countries

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

23%

People using the internet

Low-income countries

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

85%

People using the internet

Urban population

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

58%

People using the internet

Rural population

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

74%

Population using the internet

Worldwide

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

36%

Population using the internet

Africa

Measured/reported: 2025 estimates

International Telecommunication Union

Link to this figure

What do these statistics mean?

For a travel eSIM decision, check the destination plan, supported network, device compatibility and activation conditions. Population coverage cannot promise service along a particular road, inside a building or on a specific handset.

How were these figures selected?

We checked the linked primary publications, selected facts relevant to this topic, and retained their units, population and reporting period. This page is a curated reference, not an original survey. The CSV includes the source URL for every row. A successful URL check alone does not establish that a number is correct; the number and its surrounding explanation must agree with the source.

Historical observations remain labelled by their original period. We update the content date when a figure, source or explanation materially changes, rather than resetting it for a routine check. Forecasts and reported perceptions stay distinct from measured outcomes.

What are the limitations?

ITU estimates are global or income-group aggregates. They do not measure Tavi customers, roaming performance, tourist connectivity, or a particular carrier. Estimates for earlier years may be revised.

Where did the data come from?

  1. International Telecommunication Union — Facts and Figures 2025. Published: 2025-11-17.
  2. International Telecommunication Union — Facts and Figures 2025: Internet use. Published: 2025.

How should I cite a figure?

Use the permanent link on the relevant card and name the original publisher, measurement period and population in your text. Cite the original publication when it is the primary evidence for your claim. If this compilation helps your research, you can also reference this page:

Tavi. “Mobile connectivity statistics for travel research.” Updated 2026-09-14. https://taviesim.com/research/mobile-connectivity-statistics.

This reference is maintained by Tavi. Source publishers retain ownership of their publications. Inclusion does not imply endorsement.