Wireless Broadband Boosts the Economy

A new report by Ovum for CTIA, the Wireless Association concludes that "wireless broadband, is having a massive impact on the productivity of the entire U.S. economy, and in particular is having a significant impact in five key states. Further, we find that small businesses and the health care sector in particular are realizing significant benefits from the implementation and use of wireless broadband." (Click on the graphic at the upper-left to view a full-size image.) Why mention this in a blog about Korea's telecommunications sector? The main reason is that Korea has a potentially huge stake in the buildout of wireless networks around the world by virtue of its WiBro, or mobile Wimax technology. Samsung and Sprint are building Wimax networks along the east coast of the U.S., including New York and Washington D.C. Another reason is that the economic impact of wireless broadband technology in the United States economy is likely to be similar to its impact in other advanced economies, such as South Korea.