According to ABI Research, 4G networks deploying FD-LTE technology will cover 57 per cent of the global population by 2018. In comparison, 4G networks deploying TD-LTE technology will reach 52 per cent of the population by 2018.
TD-LTE technology is being widely deployed by operators like China Mobile, Airtel and Reliance Jio Infocomm, while FD-LTE technology is being used by Verizon, AT&T, etc.
The research firm expects FDD networks to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 33 per cent between 2012 and 2018. In comparison, TDD networks will expand at 43 per cent during this period. However, with only a few operators holding a licence for TDD-backed network roll-outs, the technology will be able to achieve population coverage of 52 per cent.
Going forward, the research firm expects the gap between FD-LTE 4G networks and TD-LTE 4G to narrow. This will be owing to the availability of dual-mode device chipsets as well as converged FDD/TDD network solutions. Moreover, the increasing need for additional spectrum will lead a large number of operators to deploy both the technologies simultaneously.
