Edge and AI are creating momentum for private networks, even as fewer networks are announced

Edge computing is becoming a more important component of private LTE/5G networks, and enterprises are using these networks to support more data-intensive and AI-driven applications. Nearly one in five private networks announced worldwide in the first half of 2026 explicitly included edge computing (for applications running at the edge), the highest share Analysys Mason has recorded since 2020.

These developments point to a market that is maturing rather than slowing, even though the number of new networks publicly announced each year has fallen from its 2023 peak, according to Analysys Mason’s Private LTE/5G networks tracker. 

Interest in AI among enterprises should spur further demand for edge. Providers should look again at edge or risk missing out on revenue opportunities.