ABI Examines WiBro: Is it Really Mobile WiMAX in Disguise?

OYSTER BAY, N.Y. -- WiBro is a soon to be implemented mobile high-speed Wireless Internet access service for the South Korean market. Positioned between traditional wired broadband access and mobile phone data services, it could fill an important niche.

KT and SK Telecom are aggressively preparing to launch commercial WiBro services early next year. WiBro equipment vendors and service operators are making progress at a faster pace than the mobile WiMAX camp in terms of standard realization and system rollout.

Until recently, WiBro was considered only as a South Korean domestic network but that perception is changing rapidly. Built-in compatibility with mobile WiMAX (802.16e), coupled with already-designed terminals and network equipment could make WiBro, and the participating vendors, powerful players on the world market. WiBro itself is attempting to expand globally with Japanese, South East Asian and U.S. service operators conducting trials.

According to ABI Research senior analyst Andy Bae, "With Korean users' high demands for wireless multimedia services via the Internet and KT's aggressive 'WiBro as the Next Growth Engine' plan to compete with SK Telecom-backed HSDPA, WiBro in South Korea will be well-positioned for success."

ABI Research's recent study, "The WiBro Rollout and its Worldwide Implications" examines WiBro's global strategies for both international and Korean vendors, along with its compatibility with mobile WiMAX. It also examines WiBro's opportunities, services and technical features, dedicated applications, content and terminal trends. It draws comparisons with alternative services such as CDMA 1X/EV-DO, WLAN, DMB and HSDPA, and highlights lessons learned from Korean WiBro businesses as they roll the system out.

The study also suggests strategies for service deployment, and discusses roadmaps for terminals for global operators, and chip and equipment vendors who are considering mobile WiMAX and WiBro in global markets. It includes forecasts for subscribers, terminals, equipment, revenue and more.

Founded in 1990 and headquartered in New York, ABI Research maintains global operations supporting annual research programs, intelligence services and market reports in automotive, wireless, semiconductors, broadband, and energy. For information visit www.abiresearch.com, or call +1.516.624.2500.