The number of mobile broadband subscribers across the globe is set to exceed one billion by 2013 as the popularity of the service continues to grow, new research has revealed.

According to a report by Infonetics Research, mobile broadband usage jumped 125 per cent in 2008 compared to the previous year to reach more than 210 million.

Worldwide revenue also increased by 45 per cent to almost $50 billion (£34.6 billion), with the trend expected to continue over the next few years despite the impact of the credit crunch.

Richard Webb, directing analyst for WiMAX, microwave and mobile devices at Infonetics Research, said the development of improved mobile connections had helped fuel growth in the sector over the last 12 months.

"With HSPA going live around many parts of the world, mobile broadband adoption accelerated in 2008, as mobile networks finally started to deliver on the promise of high-speed mobile access," he commented.

Mr Webb added that this, combined with better devices, had helped to increase the number of mobile broadband subscribers and ensure "a booming market".

This comes after research by Logica found that UK consumers are unlikely to change their mobile broadband habits, despite the effects of the recession.

More than half of those surveyed by the firm said they would not reduce the time spent using the internet via their mobile phone, while 40 per cent admitted to "heavy use" of mobile broadband.

However, 77 per cent said they would switch operators if their provider proved unable to meet their requirements.

Categories: Broadband, Wireless Broadband

Related Articles

• Superfast broadband demand creates more Virgin jobs - Thursday 9th February 2012
• BT Wi-Fi hotspots surpass 3.5m - Wednesday 8th February 2012
• TalkTalk launches govt-backed 'active choice' parental controls - Wednesday 8th February 2012
• Broadband Support Scheme extended in Wales - Tuesday 7th February 2012
• BT holds trial of 'FTTP on demand' services - Monday 6th February 2012