3G/WCDMA is now commercially available on 357 networks in 148 countries, according to the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA), and nearly all of these mobile operators have implemented a High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) upgrade. The number of networks operators expressing a commitment to HSPA network upgrades is even higher — 401 in 154 countries.
Some additional statistics from the GSA:
- The majority of HSPA networks, currently 58%, support a peak data rate of 7.2 Mbps or higher on the downlink.
- Almost 1 in 5 networks have deployed HSPA Evolution (HSPA+) technology. Sixty-three HSPA+ networks are launched in 35 countries. Of these, 53 commercial HSPA+ networks support a peak downlink data speed of 21 Mbps, 7 commercial HSPA+ networks support a peak downlink data speed of 28 Mbps, and 3 commercial HSPA+ networks support a peak downlink data speed of 42 Mbps.
- GSA anticipates that 95-100 HSPA+ systems will be commercially launched by end 2010.
- Several operators have confirmed plans for further network evolution steps to support 42 Mbps and 84 Mbps peak on the downlink.
- One third of HSPA operators have commercially introduced HSUPA (High Speed Uplink Packet Access). A total of 118 operators have launched HSUPA in 60 countries, with a further 8 networks currently deploying the technology in an additional 4 markets. Forty-one HSUPA systems support a peak uplink data rate of 5.8 Mbps, and 2 networks have confirmed the capability to support 11.5 Mbps peak.
- Last month, GSA confirmed that 110 operators in 48 countries are investing in LTE, comprising 80 firm network deployment commitments and 30 additional pre-commitments technology trials and study programs.
- GSA anticipates that up to 22 LTE networks will be in service by end 2010, and at least 45 are expected to be in service by end 2012.
Alan Hadden, President of GSA said: “The rapid shift to HSPA+ which is occurring will ensure its position as a mainstream technology this year, enabling operators all over the world to deliver higher data capacities and a compelling mobile broadband experience in fast expanding and highly competitive markets.”http://www.gsacom.com