In spring 2023, the Federal Government presented the Gigabit Strategy for Germany. It is intended to make the country fit for future digital challenges – with an expansion of the fibre optic network as well as nationwide mobile communications at a high level. Thus, fast internet and reliable mobile phone reception should become the standard in both urban and rural areas and form the basis for an efficient digital infrastructure. But what has happened since then? We take a look at the current status quo.
Slow internet and wireless gaps in the mobile network are a thorn in the side of many, especially in rural areas. In April 2023, just under 17% of the area in Germany was still not covered by all network operators with 4G or 5G.² Even greater potential for expansion can be found in the area of fibre optics: in December last year, only just under 10% of all broadband connections were implemented with fibre optics.³ But how has the situation developed in the meantime?
The contents of the Gigabit Strategy raise hopes for better internet connections, especially in rural regions – both at home and on the road. The Federal Government has set itself the following goals with the Gigabit Strategy:¹
These goals are also reflected in the demands of citizens: almost half of all customers of network provider competitors ask for bandwidths of 250 Mbit/s or more⁴ – fast and reliable internet has long been a necessity due to advancing digitalisation. In addition, the demand for FTTB or FTTH is growing among customers, i.e. for a fibre-optic connection directly into the building or their own home.⁴
The expansion of fast internet connections in Germany is making progress: in the first half of 2023, the number of available gigabit connections rose by around 2.2 million to more than 40 million; just under 40 % of these connections are fibre-optic connections.⁴ This means that around 15 million households could already be using the future industry standard.
Likewise, citizens can already rely on fast mobile networks in most of Germany: The 5G network now covers more than 87% of Germany.²
However, not all customers can already enjoy the benefits of fibre optic expansion: About 30% of consumers are currently unable to get a fibre connection despite their interest. They are either tenants and therefore cannot decide independently on the type of connection in the house or they live in an area where no fibre optic connection has yet been installed.⁵
In our white paper, you will find out why customers are not reaching their contract speed.
It is forecast that more than 17 million FTTB/H connections will have been installed by the end of 2023. This would mean that by the end of the year 37% of private households and SMEs would be able to use a fibre connection.⁴ With a total number of just under 45 million households in Germany that are eligible for expansion⁶, approximately 5.5 million fibre connections would still need to be laid by 2025 in order to reach the target of 50% set out in the Gigabit Strategy. It is certain that this goal can only be achieved if investments in fibre optic expansion continue at the same level and the interest in providing increased support to rural regions remains.
²Statista
³Statista
⁴VATM
⁵Verivox
⁶BMDV
