In-car Wi-Fi Market Size - By Component, By Technology, By Vehicle, By Distribution Channel, Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

In-car Wi-Fi Market Size

The in-car Wi-Fi market was valued at USD 18.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.4% between 2025 and 2034. The market is propelled by the demand of modern users for an internet connection, live navigation, and entertainment in automobiles. The engaged use of vehicles is a major motivating factor as well. Car manufacturers are providing Wi-Fi hotspots to facilitate cloud-based vehicle diagnostics, over-the-air software updates, and advanced infotainment systems.
 

As an example, Telenor predicts that the number of connected consumer vehicles will rise from 162 million in 2023 to 294 million by 2027. Meanwhile, the number of commercial connected vehicles is expected to increase from 30 million to 73 million in the same time frame. Also, they stated that among the connected cars sold from 2024 to 2030, there will be 50% 5G-enabled. Moreover, the market value of global connected vehicle technology is estimated at USD 35.9 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 10.9% from 2025 to 2034.
 

The rise of in-car Wi-Fi can also be attributed to the availability of 5G and LTE networks since they offer faster, more reliable, and low-latency connectivity. Moreover, 5G allows the use of HD streaming, real-time navigation, cloud gaming, and even V2X communication, all of which improve the overall experience in a car. This would lead to car manufacturers embedding 5G modems in their vehicles improving the telematics and infotainment services offered.
 

For example, in March 2025 Japanese mobile network, Rakuten Mobile, in collaboration with Fujitsu Limited expanded their 5G Sub6 network area. During this period, they deployed radio units to the Rakuten Mobile infrastructure which was intended to accelerate the enhancement of the Rakuten Mobile network. With the rapid expansion of 5G technology, significant improvement can be further enabled in the in-car experience which will increase the availability of in-car Wi-Fi.
 

In-car Wi-Fi Market Trends

• The expansion of automotive IoT (internet of things) has positively impacted the demand for in-car Wi-Fi markets by facilitating effortless communication, exchange of information, and smart vehicle features. Most IoT devices, sensors, AI infotainment systems, and V2X communication integrated into connected vehicles require high-speed Wi-Fi for effective operation.
   
• For instance, the global automotive vehicle-to-everything (V2X) market is projected to grow to USD 4.1 billion by 2024 and is expected around 25.1% CAGR growth from 2025 to 2034. With the rise of V2X communication technology, Wi-Fi will be a necessity for peak productivity which will help optimize the overall market.
   
• The introduction of newer versions of Wi-Fi 6, 6E, or even Wi-Fi 7 is promising and beneficial to the in-car Wi-Fi industry. Other than V2X communication, these technologies allow fast band seamless HD streaming, cloud gaming while experiencing reduced lag times.
   
• In March 2024, Qualcomm Technologies was the first in the in-car Wi-Fi market to introduce an automotive system Wi-Fi 7 solution which subsequently improved in-vehicle connectivity capabilities. Other innovations like the QCA6797AQ, a Wi-Fi 7 automotive access point, are integrated within Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Auto Connectivity platform. As a result, the solution delivers robust connections and fast data transfer on both 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.
   

In-car Wi-Fi Market Analysis

Based on component, the in-car Wi-Fi market is divided into hardware and software & services. In 2024, the hardware segment dominated the market accounting for around 60% share and is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9.5% during the forecast period.
 

• Automotive hardware leads the market including modules such as Wi-Fi modules, routers and antennas which make connectivity seamless. OEM with an in-built Wi-Fi hotspot requires powerful hardware to enable high-speed internet access, infotainment services, and navigation systems. Moreover, advanced chipsets and modems are essential for reliable connection with 5G technology and V2X communications.
   
• For instance, the case of NXP Semiconductors is an example where they released the Orange Box in October of 2022. The Orange Box is an all-in-one development platform that combines all wireless technologies for automobiles into one. The recently developed platform attempts to solve the problem of automotive architecture by integrating several wireless systems such as Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, UWB, DSRC V2X, and even mobile 4G LTE and 5G.
   

Based on technology, in-car Wi-Fi market is segmented into 4G LTE, 5G NR, and Wi-Fi 6. In 2024, the 4G LTE segment dominates the market with 56% of market share and the 4G LTE segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 9% from 2025 to 2034.
 

• In-car Wi-Fi is dominated by the advantages of 4G LTE connectivity because of its broad coverage regions, inexpensive pricing, and exceptional reliability. Certain vehicles have 4G LTE modems that allow for uninterrupted internet access for infotainment services, navigation, and streaming capitals. In comparison to the 5G market, which is still in its nascent stages of deployment, 4G LTE is leading because of its coverage, operational costs, and infrastructure components.
   
• For example, Verizon introduced their Connected Car by Verizon service for certain BMW car models in the US in June 2023 where customers gain access to in-built connectivity services. This service comprises voice and data features along with an unlimited 4G Wi-Fi hotspot all of which are executed via the My BMW app. Users only need to pay a monthly subscription fee of USD 20, and they get hassle-free infotainment, music, and mobile hotspot services integrated with the Verizon network.
   

Based on the vehicle, the in-car Wi-Fi market is segmented into passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles. The passenger vehicles category expected to dominate due to high consumer demand for connectivity, infotainment, and smart vehicle technologies.
 

• Passengers expect an effortless experience in streaming, navigation, and communication which makes Wi-Fi integration one of the most important feature offered in vehicles. Consequently, Tesla, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz offer built-in hotspots as a value-added feature to differentiate their brands and enhance user experience.
   
• Likewise, the development of massive data transfer capacity has driven the demand for real-time communication in autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles. This, in turn, increases the demand for Wi-Fi enabled vehicles. Connected car ecosystems greatly benefit from their integration with 5G networks and smartphones.
   

In 2024, North America dominated the in-car Wi-Fi market with around 36% share and U.S. leads North America market and generates revenue of USD 5.9 billion.
 

• U.S. has dominated the in-car Wi-Fi market because of 5G adoption, the strong automobile industry, and the high demand for connectivity. Automobile manufacturers such as Tesla, GM, and Ford are adding built-in Wi-Fi hotspots, while telecom companies such as AT&T and Verizon enable the users' connectivity. The autonomous vehicles, ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft, as well as fleet management systems enable more IoT usage.
   
• For example, back in April of 2022, Tesla started tests of in-car Wi-Fi hotspot tethering with several big internet service providers. This testing is intended to create an additional means of internet connectivity for Tesla cars. Currently, Tesla offers a premium connectivity plan for $10 a month which is packed with features that use a lot of data.
   

The in-car Wi-Fi market in Germany is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• Germany stands out as a focus region for in-car Wi-Fi because of its powerful automotive industry, great consumer interest in connectivity, and sophisticated 5G networks.
   
• Manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and Audi equip cars with Wi-Fi on board as a regular or an optional feature. The emphasis on connected and self-driving cars in the country is accelerating the adoption, further complemented by government programs in smart mobility and V2X communications.
   
• BMW made headlines in February 2024 when it added significant value to its onboard entertainment systems by providing 5G internet and possible use of data without restrictions. This development is in line with other innovations that are aimed at changing the manner in which people experience driving to one that resembles a luxurious and enjoyable digital experience.
   

The in-car Wi-Fi market in China is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• China’s market for in-car Wi-Fi is expanding at an astonishing pace due to increased automotive production, strong 5G infrastructure on the rise, and increasing popularity in connected vehicles. Companies, BYD, Geely, and NIO equip vehicles with Wi-Fi for infotainment, navigation, and autonomous driving purposes. The government’s focus on the adoption of smart mobility and V2X (Vehicle to Everything) communication systems accelerates adoption even more.
   
• For example, in May 2024, the Hyundai Motor and Kia entered a partnership with Baidu, one of the leading Chinese technology firms to capture more of the swiftly evolving connected car market in China. This strategic partnership intends to create novel technologies for connected vehicles including but not limited to IoT, self-driving vehicles, intelligent transportation systems, and cloud technologies.
   

The in-car Wi-Fi market in Saudi Arabia is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2034.
 

• The market’s growth in Saudi Arabia is attributed to rising demand for luxury vehicles, expanding 5G networks, and increasing initiatives for smart cities. Upon digital transformation of the automobile industry, the government’s Vision 2030 further improves the adoption of connectivity. The high market share of premium brands and local telecom operators STC and Mobily boosts Wi-Fi integration.
   
• For example, new innovations toward the development of a smart car and emergence of high-speed mobile internet have contributed significantly to the launch of the du Smart Car in May 2024, a device by Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company. This transforms any automobile into a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot while monitoring remotely and providing safety features. The device itself has a 4G Wi Fi hotspot with a capacity of 20 simultaneous users.
   

In-car Wi-Fi Market Share

• Top 7 companies of the in-car Wi-Fi industry are Verizon Communications, Qualcomm, Harman International, Ericsson, NXP Semiconductors, AT&T, and Broadcom holding around 24% of the market in 2024.
   
• Verizon has extended deals with automakers in an attempt to amplify its in-car Wi-Fi service by adding 5G for better speeds as well as lower latency. The firm provides plans that allow unlimited data usage for in-car entertainment and navigation. Furthermore, Verizon is integrating improvements to its Hum platform which enhances vehicle telematics and connected car solutions to improve driver safety, diagnostics, remote access along with other functionalities.
   
• Qualcomm is using its proven Snapdragon Auto connectivity platforms that incorporate 5G and C-V2X for high-speed in-car Wi-Fi. The company works with automakers to implement concepts of infotainment cloud navigation and real time vehicle communication as well as provide Wi-Fi 7 for multi-device connectivity serving greater passenger experience. Its efforts towards AI powered optimization of automotive cybersecurity makes it increasingly prominent in the connected vehicle space.
   
• Harman International incorporates additional capabilities to in-car Wi-Fi through its Telematics Control Units that support 5G and other advanced connectivity. The company rolls out Over-the-Air updates alongside cyber-secure cloud infotainment services to improve user experiences. Harman cooperates with car makers to create customized connected car services with high data rates, smart assistant integration and impressive in-car entertainment.
   

In-car Wi-Fi Market Companies

Major players operating in the in-car Wi-Fi industry are:

• AT&T
• Bosch Mobility
• Broadcom
• Continental
• Denso
• Ericsson
• Harman International
• NXP Semiconductors
• Qualcomm
• Verizon Communications
   

Market leaders take advantage of a myriad of opportunities including forming partnerships, entering into joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, product launches, as well as improvements to existing products, and funding further research and development. Such efforts also support the full incorporation of new technologies and elements. Likewise, the collection of firms that result from mergers and acquisitions integrated into single corporations tend to be more efficient in servicing the required market as well as in obtaining the needed resources for modification and innovations of the product offerings.
 

The marketing strategy of the in-car Wi-Fi focuses on enhanced connectivity through advanced integration of LTE and 5G to facilitate mobility. Both manufacturers and technology companies are keen on entering into partnerships to integrate Wi-Fi into vehicles for subscription-based revenue generation. The plan incorporates improved cybersecurity measures to safeguard user data and IoT applications for smart automobiles. Further spreading remote diagnostics, expanding infotainment services, and cloud-based software updates foster subscription adoption.
 

In-car Wi-Fi Industry News

• In February 2024, Audi of America and Verizon made an agreement to incorporate 5G capability into Audi's US car lineup, beginning with specific models for 2024. This is the first contract made by Verizon with a global 5G mobile automotive manufacturer. The contract will add 5G Ultra-Wideband connectivity to Audi cars which use Verizon’s network for advanced driving features, connected services, and high-speed Wi-Fi and infotainment access in the car.
   
• In July 2024, Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. was able to commercialize Japan’s first in-vehicle child presence detection (CPD) system using wi-fi sensing technology. This advanced system was developed jointly with Origin AI and uses Wi-Fi signals to identify children present in a car when visual confirmation, such as a child being under a blanket or lying on the floor, is hard or impossible to achieve. The system uses changes in Wi-Fi signal reflections caused by movement in the car to identify very small motions or even breathing of the child.
   
• In February 2024, as part of its Snapdragon Auto Connectivity platform, Qualcomm launched the first automotive-grade Wi-Fi 7 access point solution, QCA6797AQ. This has created a new frontier for in-vehicle connectivity and experience. Wi-Fi 7 has peak throughputs of 5.8 Gbps, which means that high-definition maps and videos can be downloaded while the vehicle is in motion. Multi-Link Multi-Radio (MLMR) and High Band Simultaneous (HBS) capabilities enable improved connection reliability by shifting dynamically between 5 GHz and 6 GHz channels so that the best available one can be used.
   
• In November 2023, new and existing postpaid wireless customers of AT&T who have eligible unlimited plans can now add a vehicle to their plans for USD 10 per month, which includes taxes and fees. This service gives passengers unlimited Wi-Fi and a powerful hotspot that allows them to stream videos, play games, and stay connected on multiple devices at the same time. The plan is open to customers on Unlimited Starter, Elite or Premium plans. Customers can check vehicle eligibility on the AT&T website where they are required to enter the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
   

The in-car Wi-Fi market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue ($ Mn/Bn) and shipments (Units) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Component

• Hardware
  • Wi-Fi routers
  • Embedded modules
  • OBD-II devices
  • Antennas & receivers
• Software & services
  • Connectivity management
  • Cloud-based solutions
  • Infotainment applications

Market, By Technology

• 4G LTE
• 5G NR
• Wi-Fi 6

Market, By Vehicle

• Passenger vehicles
  • Hatchback
  • Sedan
  • SUV
• Commercial vehicles
  • Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV)
  • Medium Commercial Vehicle (MCV)
  • Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HCV)

Market, By Distribution Channel

• OEM
• Aftermarket

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Nordics
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa