Analysys: Mobile TV and video services could stretch 3G networks by 2007

U.K. firm Analysys has issued a report that warns mobile TV and video services could stretch 3G networks by 2007. Dr Alastair Brydon at Analysys said, "The capacity of a typical W-CDMA network could be exceeded as soon as 2007 – for example, if 40% of 3G users take up mobile TV and video services and each consumes only eight minutes of video per day."

Dr Mark Heath at Analysys remarked,"Broadcasting technology will be the only realistic means of supporting peaks in demand – such as those created by major news stories – and extended periods of mobile TV viewing." Heath pointed out that the 3G feature "MBMS (Multimedia Broadcast and Multicast Service), which could be available from 2007, has the potential to make 3G itself the most attractive broadcasting solution."

"MBMS is based on relatively small changes to the existing 3G standard. It does not require additional spectrum or licensing and, perhaps most importantly, MBMS has the potential to enable mobile operators to continue to control the mobile TV and video market," Heath added.

Key findings include:

• Operators see rapid development of mobile TV and video services as a means to drive 3G take-up and increase ARPU
• 3G will carry the majority of mobile TV and video traffic for the next five years, but high take-up and usage could fill networks by 2007
• MBMS will add broadcasting capability to 3G networks, without the need to invest in a completely new system, such as DVB-H, DMB or MediaFLO