Our Role in Mobile
5G is revolutionizing communication and technology adoption, enabling faster downloads, higher-quality video, and more data-intensive applications. American Tower plays a critical role in supporting and satisfying 5G’s tremendous network coverage and capacity needs by owning, operating, and developing wireless infrastructure sites. In addition to leasing space on towers, we provide customized solutions through our in-building systems, rooftops, data centers, backup power generators, and services that support network deployment. Drawing on years of industry experience, we are helping mobile network operators deliver the high-quality wireless networks of the future.
Mobile Industry Landscape
~354,000
macro sites will be needed by 2032. A successful rollout of 5G will require the construction of numerous new communications sites, as well as the expansion of existing ones.
~300%
growth in mobile traffic expected over the next five years. Our distributed towers are well-positioned to handle the growing demands of wireless data.1
~$100+
billion dollars spent purchasing mid-band spectrum. Leveraging our shared digital infrastructure allows wireless service providers to reduce the burden of capital-intensive network infrastructure costs.2
1 CTIA, “How Much Licensed Spectrum is Needed to Meet Future Demands for Network Capacity,” April 17, 2023
2 Dano, Mike. “After spending $117B, US carriers ask for even more 5G spectrum,” March 16, 2022
Mobile Industry Challenges
5G networks will require infrastructure investment, including upgrades to existing tower sites, deployment of small cells, and acquiring additional spectrum. The 5G signals create a need for more base stations, while the greater power requirements of 5G equipment demand more robust, redundant power options. Our solutions address these challenges, while improving deployment economics and time to market.
Hear From Our Customer
Key Solutions for the
Mobile Industry
Towers and Rooftops
Our industry-leading portfolio of towers and rooftops can meet your coverage and capacity needs in urban and rural environments. Leverage our existing infrastructure, conserve capital expenditures, and focus on what you do best.
Services
Stretch your resources by letting us get you on-air. Our full suite of services utilizes our expertise as the site owner to provide an efficient, predictable experience throughout site acquisition, engineering, and construction.
Backup Power
Our comprehensive, on-site backup power service protects your network from service disruptions caused by storms, natural disasters, or an unreliable power grid. Gain peace of mind and protect your reputation as a reliable service provider to your customers.
DAS, Wi-Fi, and Private Networks
Our DAS, Wi-Fi and private network solutions provide the consistent coverage, capacity, and security needed for buildings and venues. We have acquired property rights, whether for the construction of a new in-building network or the management of an active network, at prime locations across the country.
New Tower Development
More cell sites are needed for 5G densification. Build with a trusted partner and tower specialist who offers financial strength and stability, expertise, and resources, with a track record of building in many jurisdictions.
Related Content
Mobile Network Operators
We support mobile network operators in delivering the reliable, high-quality service their customers demand and help them prepare for a more connected future.
Wireless Connectivity – Broadband
We help broadband providers expand service to rural areas. In our case study, you will see how a company leveraged government funding and worked with us to successfully reimagine its rural broadband deployment strategy.
Why American Tower
We are an industry leader with the assets and solutions to help meet all your network goals—rural coverage, urban densification, or anything in between.
