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Data networks can cope with the smartphone revolution
Ericsson’s prediction that the number of global mobile broadband subscriptions will double during 2011, to 1 billion, is an impressive indication of the uptake of smartphones. While smartphone growth is a revenue opportunity for operators, some in the industry are asking if existing networks can cope with demand. Ericsson networks are performing very well – thanks to robust technology and network modernization.
One perception resulting from rapid smartphone growth goes as follows: fears of long-term exponential growth in data traffic will eventually swamp capacity and paralyze connectivity on current networks.
But Ericsson mobile broadband expert, Tomas Sandin, says coverage is actually much more of a pressing issue for operators. Resolving coverage issues incorporates capacity and speed, he says.
"Smartphone users want and expect ‘24/7’ internet access anywhere," he says. "But they also expect mobile broadband to be fast. If a web page takes too long to download people get annoyed. What operators need to work on is HSPA/LTE coverage and backhaul to every 2G site. Our networks have performed very well in tests on operator equipment."
Sandin adds: "We have to put a stop to the perception that traffic growth is a current critical problem. It’s not. Smartphone data traffic will not grow exponentially in the long run. The short-term growth is exponential, yes, but not over time.
"While a smartphone uses, on average, 10 times as much data as a feature phone, our 3G radio equipment is at the same time 10 times more efficient so it evens out. Data traffic growth can be managed provided operators do the necessary upgrades."
Sandin says customer needs and expectations are the main factors driving network development. As long as operators undergo the necessary upgrades, the future should be bright.
"Within a few years a vast majority of internet access will be done through smartphones, tablets and similar devices. That will change the scene completely " he says.
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