Mobile Wireless Data Communications

Report Highlights

• BCC's forecast for all sectors of mobile wireless data communications includes revenue for 1999 of $10.1 billion growing to $19.3 billion for the year 2004, for an average annual growth rate (AAGR) of 13.8%.
• Growing at an average annual rate (AAGR) of 34.8%, the Cellular and PCS market is expected to approach $4.0 billion in 2004.
• Mobile satellite market will show an AAGR of 166.1%, increasing to $0.2 billion by 2004.

INTRODUCTION

STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

There are many forms of hyperbole being bantered about in the press today about mobile wireless data, its impact, and its future. Our goal in writing this report is to try to put a realistic assessment together of the various carriers' ability and commitment to support mobile wireless data. Our objective is to review all forms of wireless service providers to in turn evaluate both their individual and collective support and plans for mobile wireless data.

REASONS FOR DOING THE STUDY

We have been following this market for some time, and have noticed a gradual trend to move from voice-only applications to those that support some form of data. As we previously stated, it seems that all that the trade press has covered recently is the support for wireless data services. We wished to see for ourselves just how much support there is for wireless data service and who among all facets of wireless service providers is supporting it.

CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE STUDY AND FOR WHOM

This study reads like a well-documented white paper on the topic of mobile wireless data services and providers. It is intended to offer the reader a comprehensive overview of both the direction and pitfalls associated with the wireless data markets. It should be of interest to all who offer either service or product to this market. It is not, however, intended to give a lengthy review or comparison of the various technical aspects of any wireless service.

SCOPE AND FORMAT

All forms of wireless data services are covered in this report, including fixed wireless services, although fixed services do not directly contribute to mobile wireless offerings. The report covers forecasts and assumptions for the U.S. only, and presents a 4-year forecast for all mobile wireless service categories.

METHODOLOGY

Assumptions are noted with all forecasts, along with key drivers and potential issues. We look at both value-added factors and consumer-convenience factors in identifying drivers for the forecasts, along with historical trends. We consider industry leaders, representative products and services, and pricing trends to predict future acceptance of mobile wireless data services.

INFORMATION SOURCES AND OTHER BCC WORK CREDENTIALS

BCC is the leader in supplying accurate predictions as to the future of all forms of telecommunications services and products. We have published numerous reports on all forms of wireless communications. Our track record will show that we believe strongly that the spiraling downward price curve for microelectronics will allow for sufficient innovation in all forms of small computerized products, and that it will be up to the imagination of its planners as to whether a wireless service provider can capture data revenue. This report is written from information garnered through trade shows, trade press literature, interviews with leaders in the wireless industry, and marketing literature, combined with the experience of our staff.