The Strategy Analytics RF & Wireless Components service report, "LTE Device & Band Scenarios," predicts that mobile devices with low-band (700 to 850 MHz) LTE capabilities will make up the largest segment of the LTE device market through 2014. This research, based on regional spectrum allocations and the plans of leading wireless operators, provides a baseline forecast through 2014 of LTE device shipments for the 12 most important E-UTRA LTE bands. The report is intended to provide product development guidance to suppliers of radio components (transceivers, PAs, filters, antennas) and other interested parties.
According to Christopher Taylor, Director of the RF & Wireless Components market research service and author of the report, "Verizon and AT&T Mobility will be among the first to use the 700 MHz bands for LTE. Most mobile operators prefer the lower bands for LTE (700 to 850 MHz) as these bands provide better range and indoor reception than higher frequency bands. Once operators establish LTE coverage, they will add FD and TD capacity at the higher frequencies, in particular 2.3 and 2.6 GHz." Stephen Entwistle, VP of the Strategy Analytics Strategic Technologies Practice, added, "In many regions, regulatory authorities have not yet approved or auctioned bands suitable for LTE, but are expected to do so soon, which is considered in this forecast, which also covers LTE in bands refarmed from legacy GSM."