Mobile operators are increasingly relying on Wi-Fi networks, both directly and indirectly, to support their businesses. In tandem with this trend, the deployment of Hotspot 2.0 is expected to rise significantly. Out of the massive global Wi-Fi coverage in 2020, at least 6 million public locations will support Hotspot 2.0 features, according to market research firm, ABI Research. Hotspot 2.0 offers seamless discovery and access, which can potentially enhance user experience and attract more engagement.
Ahmed Ali, Research Analyst at ABI Research, said that "Overall, investment in carrier Wi-Fi solutions remain significant despite the emergence of seemingly competing technologies like LTE-U and LAA." ABI Research, however,said that to-date, the adoption of Hotspot 2.0 has remained slow due to lack of the tools to generate revenue streams from this technology although a number of operators have already upgraded or committed to upgrade their networks to support Hotspot 2.0.
According to ABI Research, the rise of IMS-enabled Wi-Fi calling has boosted the confidence in Wi-Fi voice capability and is suggesting even a larger role for Wi-Fi technologies in 4G and 5G networks. Many operators that have tapped the technology in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa and Hong Kong, have launched the service with VoLTE side by side, aiming for a complete seamless voice experience and driving the usage to five-fold by next year, added ABI Research.
