Fiber networks have transformed how we live, work, and connect. They power everything from streaming our favorite shows to enabling the smart cities of the future. But as demand skyrockets and technology advances, fiber networks are stepping up to the challenge in ways that go beyond what we’ve seen before. So, what’s next for this critical infrastructure? Let’s explore the trends and technologies shaping the future of telecom.
Fiber isn’t just about meeting current needs—it’s laying the foundation for future technologies. Two key advancements driving this change are 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT).
5G, the fifth generation of mobile networks, offers faster speeds, lower latency, and the capacity to connect more devices simultaneously, making it essential for innovations like smart cities and autonomous vehicles. Meanwhile, IoT connects everyday devices—from wearable fitness trackers to smart home systems—to the internet, allowing them to collect and share data in real time. Both 5G and IoT rely on fiber’s speed and reliability to function optimally.
Beyond 5G and IoT, the growing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is adding another layer of complexity—and opportunity—that further amplify the need for fiber.1
As fiber networks expand, managing them efficiently has become increasingly complex. AI is helping telecom operators tackle these challenges by making it easier to capture and manage data, optimize resource utilization, and continuously monitor performance.
For example, tools like SSP Vision empower field crews to quickly capture and update network data simply using the camera on their mobile devices. By digitizing and streamlining data collection, SSP Vision ensures that accurate, up-to-date information is immediately available to operators. This allows them to proactively identify and address potential network issues before they escalate and maintain a seamless experience for end-users.
Capturing pole information using SSP Vision
The push for fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) is a major focus for the telecom industry, aiming to bring ultra-fast, reliable internet to more households. FTTH supports key aspects of modern life, from remote work to online education and telehealth.
In the U.S., 137 million homes are expected to have fiber broadband by 2028.2 Similarly, 30.7 million homes in the UK and 33.5 million in Germany are projected to gain fiber access in the same timeframe.3 This expansion is transforming not just internet access, but how communities connect, innovate, and compete in a rapidly digitalizing global economy.
The fiber broadband market is poised for further consolidation in 2025, as providers pursue mergers and acquisitions to expand their networks and customer bases. This strategic shift is driven by increasing competition and the growing need for efficient infrastructure deployment (including achieving FTTH goals). These market dynamics signal a pivotal moment for fiber, with the potential to significantly enhance global connectivity and support the rapidly evolving digital landscape.4
Sustainability is becoming a priority for the telecom industry, and fiber networks are leading the way. Consuming up to 54% less energy than traditional copper systems, fiber offers a more environmentally friendly solution for meeting growing data demands.5 For telecom operators, fiber provides an opportunity to support broadband requirements while aligning with sustainability goals.
The telecom industry is evolving rapidly, and fiber networks are central to its progress. Whether it’s enabling smarter network management, expanding high-speed broadband access, or supporting sustainability, fiber is helping telecom operators prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
As the demand for connectivity continues to grow, one thing is certain: fiber is not just keeping pace—it’s setting the standard for what’s next.
Citations:
1 Isaac, Joe. "From Bandwidth to Bliss: The Future of Fiber-Based Communications Technology." TM Forum Inform, March 28, 2024. https://inform.tmforum.org/features-and-opinion/from-bandwidth-to-bliss-future-of-fiber-based-communications-technology.
2 Mohney, Doug. "Fiber Expected to Add 23.2 Million U.S. Homes Passed by 2028." Fiber Broadband Association, March 28, 2024. https://fiberbroadband.org/2024/03/28/fiber-expected-to-add-23-2-million-u-s-homes-passed-by-2028/.
3 "FTTH Market Forecasts 2023-2028." FTTH Council Europe, April 19, 2023. https://www.ftthcouncil.eu/resources/all-publications-and-assets/1709/ftth-market-forecasts-2023-2028.
4 Ferraro, Nicole. "2025 Preview: Make Way for More Fiber M&A." Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, December 19, 2024. https://www.benton.org/headlines/2025-preview-make-way-more-fiber-ma.
5 Whitman, Bob. "2025 Broadband Trends and Predictions." The Signal Network Blog, November 21, 2024. https://www.corning.com/optical-communications/worldwide/en/home/the-signal-network-blog/2025-broadband-trends-and-predictions.html.