Diffusion of mobile data in Finland

The diffusion of mobile data in Finland during 2005–2008 was studied in this research. Research data was collected on 80–99% of Finnish mobile subscribers by utilizing the usage accounting systems of mobile operators and by conducting traffic measurement at mobile networks yearly in 2005–2008. Mobile handset features central to mobile data usage have diffused to the mass market in Finland, and data traffic volume in mobile networks has grown exponentially. This growth is driven by laptop computers equipped with data terminals and mobile broadband subscriptions, although the usage of handsets for mobile data has also increased. In conclusion, it seems that the critical mass of handset users necessary for mass market diffusion of mobile data services should be achieved soon. Nevertheless, laptop computers will continue to dominate handsets traffic-wise in mobile networks.