High-speed connectivity continues to be at the forefront of conversations. Dell’Oro analysts reported that revenue from private 4G and 5G RAN systems rose 40 percent through 2024, and is expected to grow an extra 20 percent on top of that in 2025, driven by shifts in deployment from enterprise to the broader industrial niche.
The converged 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) market is not far behind. Since 2023, the NTN market has shaped out as a dynamic battleground of operators and vendors. Now integrated with 5G, 5G NTN is bringing 5G connectivity to distant and underserved locations. The global 5G NTN market, that was valued at $1271.84 million in 2024, according to latest forecasts, is expected to climb 7x, reaching $9207.49 by 2031 — that’s a staggering CAGR of 30.97%.
Further to that, hollow core fiber (HCF), one of the most talked about things in optical networking, is challenging traditional testing approaches. Unlike traditional fiber that has a solid glass core, HCF features an air core for faster light transmission. The transmission by air design offers superior network quality and significantly lower latency, making it ideal for AI workloads. However, the same design poses test challenges, pushing the industry to rethink its fiber test and measurement frameworks.
T&M Today: What You Need to Know
GNSS market outlook —The GNSS simulator market which is dominated by key test and measurement companies like Spirent, Rohde & Schwarz, and Orila, is projected to grow 2x in the next 7 years. According to market predictions, it is on its way to reach $400 million by 2032, up from its 2024 valuation of $210.82 million.
Telekom Slovenije’s big win — Ookla has touted Telekom Slovenije as the fastest and most covered network in its country. The results were based on data from Ookla Speedtest Intelligence collected from over 1.2 million test measurements and over 25 million coverage data points.
Amkor begins construction in Arizona — Amkor Technology, has broken ground on a massive semiconductor assembly and test facility in Arizona. The campus, worth $7 billion, will feature 75,000 sqft of cleanroom space and is expected to create 3000 skilled jobs, adding momentum to the Arizona tech scene.
TSMC’s likely test partner — TSMC Chairman, C.C.Wei, told investors that the company will ramp up construction of its manufacturing plant in Arizona ahead of schedule. Reports suggest that the Taiwanese semi manufacturer is working with an unnamed IC packaging and test partner, and Amkor might be a likely the one, given its expanding presence in the region.
HCF promise and challenges — A new article highlights the challenges of testing hollow core fiber, and underscores the need for new testing methodologies that will enable HCF to rapidly scale beyond niche deployments.