Summary
WiMAX will not go away any time soon and LTE will not fully displace WiMAX. They both will coexist, however, WiMAX will be more of a niche.
Analysis
LTE has gained significant traction among the large carriers that have mobile network assets, like Verizon and AT&T. As a result, the ecosystem for WiMAX has shrunk significantly. However, given the fact that the last mile broadband access remains a major challenge for many fixed line carriers around the world, they would be looking for wireless local loops to reach to the end users. WiMAX is the only viable technology today and for the next two years and will see some roll-outs in developing markets. Once these WIMAX networks are launched, WiMAX will become a component of these carriers' networks and will not go away.
With the broadband stimulus bill, WiMAX may play a role in the North American market as well for rural operators to try to provide broadband internet service in underserved areas of the country.
There are only a few viable WiMAX vendors that will survive. Among them are Alvarion and Redline Communications. Major equipment vendors have all committed to LTE and have slowed down or canceled their WiMAX plans.
This author consults with leading institutions through GLG
Analyses are solely the work of the authors and have not been edited or endorsed by GLG.
