The latest survey of GSM/EDGE network deployments by GSA, the Global mobile Suppliers Association has reported that EDGE networks are now commercially launched in 147 countries, compared to 113 countries in May 2007. EDGE is now widely available throughout Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. For example, EDGE is now available in several new markets in Africa.
The GSA survey identified 363 EDGE network commitments in 165 countries (May 2007 = 287 commitments, 142 countries), including 313 EDGE commercial network launches in 147 countries (May 2007 = 223 launches, 113 countries).
Over 60% of HSPA (High Speed Packet Access) network operators have also deployed EDGE for service continuity and the best user experience of mobile broadband services.
The number of EDGE enabled user devices, including phones and PC datacards/modems, is estimated to have more than doubled in the same period to over 1,200 products now launched.
The first commercial EDGE network was launched in June 2003.
Posted to the site on 14th May 2008