Juniper Research is out with a new report on mobile TV, arguing that with more people using free WiFi services, mobile TV industry is set to generate nearly $7 billion in revenues by 2015.
According to the report, mobile TV traffic over WiFi is expected to increase by 25 times over the 2010-2015 period as streamed service penetration and usage levels rise sharply. However, despite the capacity relief that WiFi offers to cellular networks, greater mobile TV usage will still place the 3G and 3.5G networks under stress.
The report author Dr Windsor Holden points out that cellular networks are finding it increasingly difficult to deliver high quality mobile TV services at times of peak usage such as the World Cup. “WiFi can ameliorate this in the short term, but this is only a partial remedy,” he added.
Juniper goes on suggesting that although LTE networks could reduce congestion, the use of unpaired spectrum something Vodafone, Orange and O2 are planning to trial) might be an alternative or complementary solution.
Finally, the research company says that dedicated mobile broadcast technologies such as DVB-H won’t lead the market anywhere due to limited availability of compatible mobile phones.
Additional details about the study “Mobile TV: Applications, Services & Opportunities 2010-2015” are available from Juniper’s website.