Third-generation wireless carrier Hutchison Whampoa Ltd. said it has nearly 6 million subscribers to its 3G services around the world. The 5.9 million subscriber figure is up 81 percent from Hutchison’s 3.2 million subscribers as of Aug. 19.
These figures include Hutchison’s operations, which are offered under the 3 brand, in Australia, Austria, Denmark, Hong Kong, Italy, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The carrier did not offer a subscriber breakout by country.
The percentage of prepaid subscribers increased to 58 percent of its total subscribers in December from 48 percent since July. The carrier’s average revenue per user decreased from $68.32 during the month of July to $60.34 during the month of November. However, the percentage of non-voice ARPU increased from 15 percent in July to 21 percent in November.
“With the launch of new handset models in November, unconstrained handset supply and an industry-leading range of high-quality content services delivered over stable, high-speed networks, we are looking forward to continued strong sales in the run up to Christmas,” said Hutchison Managing Director Canning Fok.
After a sluggish start blamed on handset delays and lack of consumer interest, 3’s subscriber numbers have been steadily increasing during 2004.
