May 17, 2005
SAWBRIDGEWORTH, U.K. -- The latest GSM/3G Market Update survey by GSA released today confirms a 46% jump in the number of subscribers using 3G/WCDMA networks during the first 4 months of 2005. The number of WCDMA networks offering commercial services has now reached 71 in 33 countries, compared to 60 networks in 28 countries at the turn of the year, confirming WCDMA as the most widely accepted 3G technology globally. A further 6 WCDMA networks are in the pre-commercial phase.
The variety and availability of WCDMA devices is contributing strongly to growth, alongside competitive service offerings and maturing technology. The research by GSA identified 166 WCDMA models announced in the market, an increase of 58 so far this year (equivalent to 54% growth), and including the first HSDPA devices.
The progress of GSM/EDGE deployments is also encouraging. GSA confirms there are now 84 EDGE networks offering commercial services in 52 countries, following recent launches in China, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. GSA confirms 141 operators in 79 countries globally have committed to the EDGE upgrade on their networks. The number of EDGE-enabled devices launched now stands at 113 models, a jump of over 100% this year, with more manufacturers entering the market.
GSA also confirms that 42 operators are today operating or deploying combined WCDMA and EDGE networks, ensuring optimum flexibility and efficiencies for delivery of the best user experience of advanced mobile multimedia services.
GSM's strong subscriber growth continues, with the worldwide total reaching 1.357 billion at end April 2005, an increase of 77 million since the end of 2004.
Global Mobile Suppliers Association
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