4G has emerged as the major driver of data traffic in India, according to a report on mobile broadband performance from Nokia. 26 per cent of metro circles' data traffic came from 4G, although 3G remains a significant growth engine contributing to 63 per cent of total data payload. Video and social networking contributed 65 to 75 per cent of the traffic. Communication and social media apps were the key drivers of engagement in terms of time spent.
"Even with limited 4G penetration, India's 4G consumption per user reached close to 70 per cent of the average consumption for some developed markets," says the report. It further says that even though fixed broadband reaches less than 2 per cent of population, mobile broadband is driving high speed internet uptake in India.
Of every 20 mobile subscribers in metro circles, four had a 4G capable device and 11 had a 3G capable device. 4G device penetration reached 12 per cent pan-India, with Mumbai and Delhi having highest penetration.
Hindi and regional content dominated Indian consumer preference. To appeal to masses and rural population, messaging apps are focussing on multi-language options, offline messaging, stickers etc.
"Operators will need to focus on infrastructure investments such as optical fibre and small cells for expanding 4G coverage and capacity," says the report.