When it comes to portable/mobile devices, the bulk of early WiMAX device shipments will be in the form of external laptop clients and embedded mobile PCs, reports In-Stat. Growth in both external clients and laptops will benefit from the lower cost of the technology compared to cellular, and in some cases, lack of service contracts, the high-tech market research firm says. In-Stat believes these devices will attract both monthly subscribers and session-based users.

The research,“Devices Take Center Stage: 2008 Global Outlook for WiMAX Devices” (#IN0804004WBB),covers the worldwide market for WiMAX-equipped devices. It provides forecasts for WiMAX subscriptions and several categories of WiMAX devices. Analysis of device markets, including the strategies of key players, is provided.

“WiMAX will grow by meeting pent-up demand and offering users a lower cost alternative to existing services,” says Daryl Schoolar, In-Stat analyst. “There will be different classes of operator control over devices. Despite what some technology advocates have said, not all WiMAX devices will follow the Wi-Fi model of full consumer ownership and control.”

Recent research by In-Stat found the following:

- Annual WiMAX device shipments will break the 10 million mark in 2010.
- Future trends with WiMAX devices are multi-band radios and chipsets that support both LTE and WiMAX.
- Challenges to WiMAX device growth are current 3G services, LTE, and the current economic climate.

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