reconfirms the potential of 3G/HSPA technology to become a real alternative of fixed
broadband. Experts say that making margin on mobile broadband is not impossible
even at such traffic levels but the business environment is clearly becoming more
challenging compared to the voice centric era.
The recently published Telecommunications Market Report of The Swedish Post and
Telecom Agency (PTS) reported 4.5 times year on year increase in the total data
traffic of the Swedish mobile operator networks. This impressive growth rate exceeds
the 30% global quarterly increase measured and reported by Allot Communications
earlier this month.
But PTS revealed an even more striking diagram: the monthly data usage of an
average mobile broadband subscriber has doubled during 2008.
“The 4.5 GByte/month average consumption of HI3G (Tre) is now comparable to
levels seen in fixed networks, reconfirming the market potential of fixed to mobile
substitution”
specialist telecom consulting firm.
Clearly, the breakthrough of mobile broadband is driving the mobile telecom industry
through a fundamental transformation. According to Mr. Zarandy the rapid growth of
data usage – and the incremental CAPEX and OPEX of handling the traffic – is an
alarming sign that operators should take seriously.
Rewheel points out that network operators must align their production costs and
supply chain with the incremental revenue potential of mobile data. The consultants
stress the importance of improving cross-functional teamwork, since innovative
players that are capable of closing the competence and mindset discontinuities
between technology, marketing, finance and supply chain management teams will
gain critical competitive advantage over their slow mover peers.
References:
Relevant chapter of PTS Report with figures:
http://svensktelemarknad.se/
Allot Communications figures: http://www.cellular-
