U.S. Wireless Industry Makes Efficient Use of Spectrum to Meet Consumer Demand and Prepare for 5G
CTIA Press Release, July 9, 2019
WASHINGTON –U.S. wireless providers increased their spectrum efficiency 42 times since 2010, according
to a new white paper released by CTIA, the wireless industry association. U.S. wireless networks handled
948M megabytes (MB) for every one megahertz (MHz) of spectrum in 2010 and now handle 39.9B MBs/
MHz thanks to significant industry investment in networks and technology.
Facing a hockey stick growth curve in mobile data use—which nearly doubled last year alone—and as 5G
places more demand on wireless networks, wireless providers are investing billions to increase their
spectrum efficiency.
“This paper conclusively demonstrates that America’s wireless providers are excellent stewards of their
spectrum assets, a limited natural resource,” said Tom Sawanobori, CTIA SVP, and Chief Technology
Officer. “The wireless industry’s investment to enhance spectral efficiency and a plan to free up additional
licensed commercial spectrum are necessary to deliver the mobile experience that Americans expect.”
https://www.ctia.org/news/wireless-providers-increased-spectrum-efficiency-by-42-times-since-2010-new-paper-shows
Smarter and More Efficient: How America’s Wireless Industry Maximizes Its Spectrum, CTIA Report Jul 9, 2019
As the industry works with policymakers and federal agencies to find new spectrum to bring to market,
wireless providers are also investing heavily to make more efficient use of the spectrum holdings they have today.
https://www.ctia.org/news/smarter-and-more-efficient-how-americas-wireless-industry-maximizes-its-spectrum
Mobile Data Use Nearly Doubles, CTIA Annual Survey Shows, CTIA Press Release June 20, 2019
https://www.ctia.org/news/mobile-data-use-nearly-doubles-ctia-annual-survey-shows
