230% Growth in GSM/EDGE Devices

Yesterday, the GSA - Global mobile Suppliers Association - posted a survey, confirming:

The number of GSM/EDGE devices, which covers all market segments and includes phones and PC datacards, has reached 212 models, an increase of 148 in 12 months i.e. 231% growth. The number of suppliers in the market has expanded in the same period from 13 to 33 today.

This is clearly an indication of severe increase in competition in the mobile device space. Indirect indications in North America are that more and more handsets become available unlocked and operator-independent.

As the mobile devices shift more and more into the consumer goods category - the more new products and suppliers will be seen from the Asian side of the globe.