Juniper Highlights D2D, 5G Advanced & AI RAN for 2026

Telcos face a rapidly evolving landscape as enterprise demand grows more diverse. Juniper Research’s Connectivity Tech Horizon report identifies three technologies with the potential to deliver the most significant impact over the next year: Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity, 5G Advanced and AI-enabled Radio Access Networks (AI RAN).

“Enterprise demand for connectivity is not only growing, but becoming increasingly varied,” says Sam Barker, VP of Telecoms Market Research at Juniper Research. “Those in the telecoms market need to remain vigilant against both growing disruptive technologies and those that Juniper Research believes are slowly losing relevance.”

The Tech Horizon framework evaluates 20 connectivity technologies, providing telcos with a clear visual assessment of which innovations exceed market expectations and which are lagging.

Direct-to-Device: Expanding coverage to underserved areas

Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity enables standard mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, extending coverage to rural and remote regions without the need for costly infrastructure.

“D2D will extend mobile coverage to remote and underserved regions without the need for costly new infrastructure,” the report notes.

Operators can leverage two approaches: dedicated satellite spectrum from MSS operators and repurposing terrestrial mobile spectrum through LEO constellations like Starlink. While D2D is in early commercial deployment, Juniper Research designates it as a “Major Mover” due to its significant growth potential.

For telecom providers, D2D offers a route to new revenue streams while addressing connectivity gaps that traditional networks struggle to reach.

5G Advanced: Bridging the gap to 6G

Standard 5G has underperformed in monetisation, but 5G Advanced aims to drive rapid growth with enterprise-grade capabilities.

“5G Advanced will deliver enhanced uplink capacity, AI-native network management and new enterprise-grade applications that redefine the value of 5G,” Juniper Research explains.

Operators need to move from selling basic connectivity to offering outcome-driven services that leverage deterministic latency, AI-driven network management and expanded capacity. 5G Advanced is expected to lay the foundation for AI-native 6G networks, positioning operators for future technological leadership.

AI RAN: Automating the intelligent network

AI RAN merges Radio Access Network functions with AI on a cloud-native platform, allowing operators to automate network management and reduce costs.

“AI RAN will drive major efficiency gains and operational savings,” the report states. Juniper Research forecasts US$21 billion in operator investment in AI technologies in 2025.

By consolidating hardware and enabling shared cellular and AI workloads, AI RAN supports the development of intelligent, responsive networks that prepare operators for the AI-native architecture of 6G.

Addressing underperforming technologies

While D2D, 5G Advanced and AI RAN have the potential for growth, legacy 5G, NB-IoT and some Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) have struggled to meet expectations.

Challenges include slow enterprise adoption, low ROI and immature business models. Operators should prioritise investment in the Major Movers while reassessing underperforming technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Strategic priorities for telco leaders

Juniper Research’s Tech Horizon provides operators with actionable insights for 2026, highlighting where investment and innovation can deliver tangible value.

D2D, 5G Advanced and AI RAN represent the technologies most likely to transform networks, enhance coverage and enable enterprise-focused services.

“Those in the telecoms market need to remain vigilant against both growing disruptive technologies and those that Juniper Research believes are slowly losing relevance,” Sam concludes.

Telecom operators that strategically deploy the innovations will be best positioned to meet enterprise demand, improve operational efficiency and stay ahead in an increasingly AI-driven connectivity market.