While much of the conversation in telecom circles focuses on the next generation of mobile networks, LTE has just reached a notable milestone.
Syniverse data indicates that inter-regional LTE data roaming traffic has, for the first time, overtaken non-LTE data roaming traffic.
In 2017, LTE accounted for 54 percent of global outbound roaming traffic, up from 42 percent in 2016.
John Wick, Senior Vice President at Syniverse, said:
“Syniverse’s figures show that eight years after LTE’s first commercial launch, it has become a genuinely mature global technology. This progress highlights the urgent need for the industry to prepare for 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT).”
“If the ambitious 5G use cases that excite the industry are to become real and widely adopted, the ecosystem supporting interconnection, interoperability, security, and roaming must be reinforced and evolved soon.”
“Those same foundational elements supported previous technology generations and will be even more critical for 5G to succeed.”
For its analysis, Syniverse examined global roaming traffic records from its IPX network, which connects nearly 1,000 mobile operators. In 2017, LTE roaming volume grew 121 percent across six regions.
Regionally, the Americas accounted for 79 percent of global LTE roaming volume.
“Our data shows that while LTE deployment continues to expand at a healthy pace, the mobile industry must accelerate work to fully seize the 5G opportunity,” Wick added.
“Industry discussion has focused heavily on 5G’s most innovative technologies. Equally important for 5G adoption is integrating enabling technologies such as IPX to deliver secure, global connectivity—pillars that have long supported the mobile industry’s success.”
What are your thoughts on this LTE milestone? Let us know in the comments.
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