DSL users to move to WiMax
A new analysis of the global opportunity for WiMax 802.16e forecasts that up to 12% of the global DSL install-base will be substituted by WiMax by 2013. The Far East will lead with over one fifth of the 47m subscribers in 2013. A region by region analysis by Juniper Research found that there is a significant opportunity now for WiMax as a DSL substitute technology.
Report author Howard Wilcox said: "WiMax will be an attractive offer in areas where there are no wired networks, and in areas where the existing DSL speed is suboptimal. WiMax will solve the broadband access problem for users located at the fringes of DSL coverage.
“This is in fact the case in a number of developed nations such as the UK, USA, Ireland and Scandinavia, and WiMax network operators are deploying networks to address this market need. Additionally in developing countries – such as India – network operators are aiming to provide basic connectivity.
“The vast majority of the WiMax 802.16e trials and network contracts which are being announced almost daily will begin by providing fixed broadband. Mobile usage will develop after initial demand for fixed and portable services – this will be an added benefit for subscribers.”
The research predicts that:
• The annual fixed WiMax global market size will exceed 13m subscribers by 2013;
• The WiMax device market – comprising CPE, chipsets, minicards, and USB dongles – will approach $6bn per annum by 2013; and
• The top three regions (Far East, North America and western Europe) will represent over 60% of the $20bn per annum global WiMax service revenues by 2013.
However, Wilcox cautioned: “Brand identification and service differentiation are major marketing challenges facing new WiMax operators. Many of the existing broadband providers are household names that already have widespread market presence and recognition. WiMax operators will need to identify and promote their USP (unique selling point), whilst avoiding entering the market on the basis of price.”
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