THE TOTAL number of BWA/WiMAX subscribers topped 4 million worldwide, according to the most recent quarterly report from 4GCounts’ WiMAX and LTE operator tracking service.
LTE is widely considered by mobile operators as the main option to address the need for higher bandwidth. However, the technology has experienced delays with the availability of LTE devices and the lack of harmonized spectrum, the report says. Also, many operators seem content with current CDMA/HSPA networks.
"The higher demands imposed by open Internet access on web phones and laptops pushes incumbent operators to LTE, and Greenfield operators to more rapid returns for WiMAX deployments”, said Robert Syputa, Maravedis partner and senior analyst, in a statement. “With additional spectrum hard to come by, this is likely to pull in the time frame for conversions of existing spectrum. Operators’ thinking shows early signs of shifting."
The report also found that:
– Q2 2009 recorded WiMAX ARPU was US$39.5 and US$121.8 for residential and business segments respectively.
– Out of all BWA/WiMAX CPEs deployed as of Q2 2009, 4GCounts showed 25% were 802.16-2004; 23% were 802.16e-2005; and 52% were vendor proprietary.
– 45 new devices obtained WiMAX Forum certification in Q2 2009, including 18 notebooks, 4 cards, 12 USB dongles, and 3 chipsets.
– Of the top 39 mobile operators committed to LTE tracked by 4GCounts, 37% are planning a commercial rollout in 2010; 29% in 2011; 25% in 2012; and 9% have yet to be confirmed.
Click here for more information on the report.
