5G Monetization Strategies and Business Models: An insightful Analysis for Telecommunications Service Providers

The telecommunications industry faces significant financial challenges due to extensive 5G infrastructure investments and declining traditional revenue streams. This research examines strategic monetization opportunities and business models enabled by 5G technology through a comprehensive case study analysis. The study employs qualitative research methodology, analyzing global and Indian telecom markets to assess 5G readiness, adoption trajectories, and market forecasts. Through systematic evaluation of use cases proposed by OEMs and research organizations, the study identifies six distinct business models for Communications Service Providers (CSPs). These models leverage 5G capabilities across network slicing, edge computing, and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC) to create new revenue streams. The research reveals that successful monetization strategies pivot on three key pillars: managed services integration, IoT application development, and partner ecosystem cultivation. Findings indicate that CSPs can achieve revenue diversification through vertical-specific solutions, platform-based business models, and API-driven service integration. Furthermore, it highlights the critical role of ecosystem partnerships and service innovation in maximizing return on 5G investments. The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of strategic importance and monetization strategies of 5G. Secondary market research is carried out for the global and Indian telecom market, to find out the direction, forecast, and market readiness about 5G. Identified and studied different use cases and business models proposed by original equipment manufacturers (OEM), and research organizations. New revenue streams can be generated through new technologies in areas like managed services, IoT applications, partner ecosystems, etc. 5G support these new technologies and will help telecom service providers gain new revenue streams. Based on research output, we have proposed 6 different business models that will help CSPs to capitalize on their resources.