Thursday, September 18, 2008

3G Modem Sales Grows

Who would have though but 3G modems has grown 300% from 2006 to 2007.  So, who's buying ll these USB 3G attachments when the rates just don't add up for the typical consumer?  Well, I just answered the question.

So, what do we know about 3G adoption?
  • 3G modem sales expected to reach $22 billion in 3013 (compared to $3 billion in 2007)
  • The USB version is the most popular.
  • Primarily business users buy up these 3G modems.
  • More laptops are being built with the 3G modem in side.
  • Popularity and growth of 3G will overshadow Wi-Fi.  Seriously, I thought that.  Perhaps WiMax one day but not 3G.  Cost starts at $60 with limited use.
  • Downside is battery.
Previously we analyze the feasibility of subsidizing laptop purchases.  It was in the context of Macbooks but Vodafone is selling Dell 3G laptops so this applies to all carriers and equipment makers.

While sales have grown, it remains to be seen if wireless providers will shot themselves in the foot and make all sorts of demands and vaguely worded conditions that will hinder wireless Internet growth.  Already they sought stewardship over its subscribers during a recent forum with reporters on open networks. 

Like everyone else, I am excited about the prospects of wireless broadband but that has largely been limited to Wi-Fi for me.  I'm be using a 3G device some time in the near future but I'll be damned if I'm going to have to put up with unlimited access up to 5GB nonsense. 
Source: Macworld

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