Today, CTIA-The Wireless Association released its semi-annual survey, which showed U.S. wireless providers increased their annual network investments from $25.3 billion in 2011 to $30.1 billion in 2012 (up 19 percent). The $30.1 billion is the highest amount since the survey began in 1985, which is approximately 25 percent of the world's total wireless capital expenditures [PDF], even though the U.S. has only five percent of the world's wireless users. The U.S. wireless providers invested approximately $94 per subscriber, compared with $16 per subscriber for the rest of the world. Since 2000, wireless providers invested more than $296 billion, not including the more than $35 billion in spectrum auction revenues paid to the U.S. government.
"The U.S. wireless industry's record-setting level of network investment is clear proof of its continued commitment to providing Americans with superior 4G coverage. The wireless industry invested billions of dollars to improve their networks and their customers' coverage in 2012, fueling the 'virtuous cycle' of innovation. New devices, apps and content were developed so consumers could take advantage of the faster network speeds and capabilities. That's why the U.S. leads the world in wireless innovation and competition," said Steve Largent, President and CEO, CTIA. "The numbers clearly prove our members are key drivers of the U.S. economy, which will be enhanced by making more spectrum available for commercial use."
