WiMAX to Hit $16 Billion by 2010
Senza Fili Consulting today released a report entitled 'Fixed or Mobile WiMAX? Forecasts and assessment for the transition from 802.16-2004 to 802.16e WiMAX,' which suggests that the mobile version of WiMAX will be far more popular than the fixed version — but that it'll take a while for mobile WiMAX to be implemented.
The report says mobile WiMAX (802.16e) will provide an excellent opportunity for providers that aren't already established with cell phone networks. "Service providers that are eager to enter the mobility and portability market, but do not have cellular spectrum, will drive WiMAX adoption," says monica Paolini, the report's author.
"The hottest markets will be emerging countries like China and Mexico where WiMAX is a cost-effective last-mile solution, and countries like Korea with a high demand for portable and mobile services," she says.
By 2010, Paolini says, there will be 15.4 million WiMAX subscribers worldwide, generating over $16 billion in service revenues — with 41 percent of subscribers in Asia Pacific countries.