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Emerging Trends in the IoT Connectivity Market for 2026

Publisher IDC
Published Feb 20, 2026
Length 11 Pages
SKU # IDC20900786

Description

This IDC Market Perspective discusses the emerging trends in the IoT connectivity market. The IoT cellular connectivity market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by rising enterprise demand for global, scalable solutions, the adoption of eSIM and SGP.32 standards, the emergence of 5G RedCap, and the integration of satellite connectivity. As legacy networks are phased out, LTE-M and NB-IoT are becoming the default, while increasing data usage and advanced analytics are reshaping revenue models. Providers must prioritize long-term reliability, security, and customer education to capitalize on these evolving trends through 2026."As IoT deployments scale globally, the real question for 2026 isn't just about connecting more devices — it's about who will master seamless, secure, and future-proof connectivity in a world where borders, networks, and even orbits are no longer barriers but building blocks for innovation," says Pahul Preet Singh, senior research analyst, Mobile and IoT Communications Services, IDC.

Table of Contents

11 Pages

Executive Snapshot

Key takeaways

Recommended actions

New Market Developments and Dynamics

Rising enterprise demand for global IoT connectivity

RedCap begins to advance 5G IoT … slowly

Satellite connectivity emerges as a strategic extension of cellular IoT in 2026

Growth in data usage and connections expected to counterbalance ARPU decline

Legacy network shutdowns to accelerate the shift to LTE-M and NB-IoT

Advice for the Services Provider

Set realistic expectations in IoT by bridging knowledge gaps

Drive IoT success by prioritizing long-term connectivity

Ensure IoT success through proper device configuration

Ensure end-to-end security

Explore partnership opportunities with satellite IoT connectivity providers

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