The Expected Growth of Mobile Data

As more and more people get connected devices, it is no surprise to see data usage rates rise. According to a study by Cisco, 497 million connected devices were added to the market in 2014, with the total number now at an estimated 7.4 billion. The type of data the various devices are using was mostly video — over 50% — with web, audio and file sharing following in order.

While data compression (such as GIFV instead of GIFs) continues to improve the sheer number of users combined with a higher reliance on cloud computing access will likely drive mobile data usage ever higher. Last year cloud computing — including audio as well as video streams, gaming and more — made up 81% of all mobile data. The table below shows Cisco projects this rate continue to rise.

For a measure of anecdotal evidence, I find myself increasing my data plan — I envy unlimited plans — if I know I’m going on a roadtrip or will be waiting in an airport without Wi-Fi. I’ve come to rely on staying connected, even at a higher monthly cost, for professional and personal reasons. If I take the train to Chicago, I’ll stream a podcast or even a game on my phone or tablet. I’ve used my phone as a mobile hotspot to type things up while riding the train as well, something even two or three years ago I wouldn’t have.

It isn’t just what and how we’re connecting to the mobile web, it’s also from where. The rates of usage is up around the world, particularly in North America and Asia. The fastest growth projection is actually for Africa and the Middle East and Central/Eastern Europe coming in at 71% and 72% compound annual growth rate.

There isn’t a major entertainment network, website, team or league without an app, twitter account or even media player. With a history of growth a clear projection going forward, mobile data will continue to play a large —and ever growing — part of our lives. The full Cisco report is available here or in PDF format.

(Header image via Cio)