A report released this week by network intelligence company Actix declared that there is “no safety net” for operators deploying LTE networks, with 35% of 3G data traffic generated by LTE-ready handsets which mean swift uptake once LTE networks are turned on.
Actix, based in the U.K., said that four of the top 10 devices on mature European networks are LTE-capable: the Apple iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy SII, Samsung Galaxy SIII and Apple iPad 3.
Uptake of LTE services will be rapid, leaving little room for error from operators who cannot afford to disappoint subscribers, according to Actix. The company produces software which helps operators get intelligence from and optimize their networks.
“Subscribers are ready and waiting on the operator to deliver on day one and will be very unforgiving of any service issues,” said Neil Coleman, director of global marketing for Actix. Watch an RCR interview with Coleman on Actix’s state of the network report from earlier this year here.
Given the amount of investment in LTE and the opportunity for new revenues, increased customer satisfaction and reducing churn, Actix noted that operators had better live up to the hype with solid deployments, or risk harm to their brands.
“Operators simply cannot afford to deliver a single poor day one LTE experience. As a consequence they need to pay special attention to the RAN, where issues are most likely to originate,” notes Coleman. Actix reported that 5% of sites carry 50% of network traffic.
