50 million broadband users worldwide

The GSM Association (GSMA) has revealed that the number of mobile broadband (HSPA) subscribers has risen sharply in the last year.

There are now more than 50 million subscribers using mobile broadband through  HSPA mobile networks.  This time last year it stood at just 11 million.

HSPA is a 3G-based technology in use by mobile network operators which has seen overall network speeds increase, with headline speeds currently between 3.6Mbps to 7.2Mbps.  This translates to an end user speed of around 1Mbps to 5Mbps.

New HSPA-enabled devices, such as dongles and laptops are becoming cheaper, and coupled with the high demand for these services, is allowing operators to offer mobile broadband at an attractive price point to the end user.

Mobile broadband appears to be in demand from both consumers and businesses. 

Businesses can allow flexible working for its employees and easy access to company information when out in the field.  Consumers are able to check emails, browse websites, use their favourite social networking site (such as Facebook), and keep in touch with friends and family.