A new report has been released that highlights the fact that mobile broadband use has rocketed across Europe. This report was released by IDC and covers the previous year and a half. IDC point to a number of contributors to this growth which include; price reductions, increased use of laptops, better USB modems and upgraded mobile networks.

John Delaney who works for IDC a European Director says that this is a huge opportunity to the mobile operators and will continue to be one. He points to the fact that the appeal of the service is not just its convenience.

In a tough economic climate, portable Internet provides a great opportunity for the operators but it is important that they do not lose other existing business especially if they are already providing fixed line services.

It was also found in the report that mobile broadband is going to be the key revenue generator for the mobile networks. This will in general be in addition to their current streams which is a great benefit to them. The best method for making the most of the opportunity is for the networks to continue to provide a multitude of price packages and offerings. It is believed by IDC that mobile broadband provides the opportunity to offer extra much needed revenues for many years into the future.

The only potential issue or threat comes from the global economic meltdown. This could affect the growth of laptop computers which would in turn slow down demand for USB modems. Consumers may also be less confident about committing to another long term contract for their best mobile broadband service.

This report is of course the views of one organisation. The general market feeling agrees with the views that portable Internet is set to be the mobile industry’s white knight.