USB Modems Continue to Outstrip Embedded as Mobile Broadband Modem Shipments Grow to 150 Million in 2011, Says ABI Research

The USB modem form-factor continues to lead the pack in mobile broadband modem shipment volumes, with an estimated 110 million units shipping worldwide in 2011. This form-factor, along with embedded modem modules and mobile hotspot routers, will contribute to the market's 46% YoY growth, with an estimated 150 million total shipments in 2011. "USB dominates the market due to its relatively low cost and easy use, as it's often used as an after-market upgrade for computer owners," says Jeff Orr, group director, mobile devices. "As more 3G networks come online and as new 4G ones emerge, this lends itself toward an upgrade market opportunity for USB modems, followed by new PC purchases with an embedded modem module." Embedded modem modules enjoyed the second largest market share, with a forecast of 30 million units shipped in 2011 to PC and CE device manufacturers. The majority of this growth is due to the rapid adoption of 3G-enabled media tablets, such as Apple's iPad 2. Mobile hotspot routers will also grow at a respectable 50% YoY as this segment continues to gain awareness. PC Cards will have the smallest number of shipments, with only one million devices shipped for 2011. ABI Research's new market data, "Cellular and Mobile Broadband PC Modem Market Data," ( http://www.abiresearch.com/research/1003050 ) provides market share and shipment forecast data for cellular and mobile broadband modems used to supply wireless WAN connectivity to laptop and netbook computers. Modems come in four form-factors: PC Cards, USB dongles, embedded modem modules, and WWAN/Wi-Fi routers with integrated modems.