Global mobile subscribers tops 1.5 billion

With the number of global mobile subscribers passing the 1.5 billion mark in the first week of June, the industry looks set to break the two billion barrier by as early as July 2006.

Research from analyst EMC forecasts that the two billion milestone will be reached ahead of recent industry predictions, with global additions of more than 240 million subscribers in both 2004 and 2005.

Despite long since reaching saturation point in western Europe, the mobile industry is still poised for sustained growth through emerging markets such as China, India and Brazil.

Kester Mann, senior research analyst at EMC, said in a statement: "With a global mobile penetration rate of just 23 per cent there are still almost five billion potential new mobile users worldwide and this represents a tremendous opportunity for the industry."

He added that continued subscriber growth can be achieved by further widening the market for mobile services to include people previously unable to afford a mobile phone service or who have lived outside areas of coverage.

See also:

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Jukebox service offers 90-second tracks at £1.49 each  30 Jun 2004

Teens driving mobile data market

Operators should target kids, not business users, says research  23 Jun 2004

First mobile phone worm created

'Cabir' virus affects Symbian OS handsets and spreads via Bluetooth  16 Jun 2004

Nokia revamps enterprise line-up

New smartphones, business accessories and network security products  15 Jun 2004

Nokia calls the tune with five new handsets

Vendor claims breakthrough with world's smallest 3G smartphone  14 Jun 2004

Mobile working

Mobile working has become a fact of life. In this Computing Special Report we look at the relevant technology, and the effects it will have on your business.  19 Mar 2004

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