Streaming video is the fastest growing mobile app : Allo

Streaming mobile video has become a mainstream medium and is the single most influential factor driving the need for increased network capacity, according to the latest survey from IP firm, Allot.

The report found that global mobile data bandwidth usage increased by 72% between Q2 and Q4, FY2008-09, and that YouTube was responsible for 10% of global mobile data bandwidth.

The report also finds that, “The exponential global and regional growth in video streaming indicates that much of this increase is due to a shift towards more real time, user generated, on-demand content where the user is both a broadcaster and a viewer.”

HTTP streaming experienced a strong upward growth trend, and increased its global mobile broadband share by 50%, according to the report. HTTP streaming continued to be the fastest growing application with a 99% increase. HTTP downloads grew by 73%, and have become a feasible alternative for massive file sharing.

VoIP and IM applications also increased by almost 47%. Skype was found to be the 'undisputed VoIP market leader' in Q4 '09, accounting for 77% of global mobile VoIP bandwidth.

But reports also warn that mobile broadband networks are still facing the same challenges as fixed networks-growing bandwidth demands, congestion, enhancing user experience and the ability of a few subscribers to negatively impact network resources.

Some industry reports have predicted a 130% compounded annual growth over the next five years for mobile data; and that by 2012, more than 20% of all such traffic will be video. The emergence of 3G mobile networks offers new opportunities for the effective delivery of data with rich content including multimedia messaging and video streaming. With the launch of 3G and rapid adoption of high end and advanced handsets like iPhone, smartphones, blackberry, etc, video streaming will also take off in the Indian market. Currently two operators, MTNL and BSNL, are offering this service for the Indian subscribers.

arpitap@cybermedia.co.in