Abstract
The Fourth and Fifth Generation (4G and 5G) Mobile Communication Technology (MCT) is a crucial development that is expected to bridge digital divides worldwide and has significant economic implications for nations. However, there is a lack of research regarding the interplay of market heterogeneities with the diffusion of such 4G and 5G MCTs, particularly in emerging economies. This study aims to fill this research gap by conducting a quantitative analysis, by taking the case of early diffusion of 4G MCT across the twenty-two administrative regions (aka telecom circles) of India, where a new Mobile Network Operator (MNO) had simultaneously launched the 4G service. Using the Diffusion of Innovations theory and the Heterogenous Markets Hypothesis, the study puts forth several propositions that emphasize the role of market heterogeneity in mobilizing different forces in diffusion, such as imitative influences through word of mouth, and the power of innovation to mobilize Innovators and Early movers.
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Notes
- 1.
In simple terms, Mobile Communication Technologies (MCTs) could be understood as Mobile Network Infrastructures (including radio towers, electronic equipment, fiber/copper cable, etc.) adhering to specific types of “networking standards” (e.g., GSM, CDMA, etc.), facilitating the provision of voice and supplementary services through handheld and mobile devices (for a detailed discussion regarding MCTs, please refer to [9]).
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Annexure A
Annexure A
Source: Authors’ own representation
MCT generation evolution.
Source: BMI International database
Comparison of 4G subscribers of the incumbent MNOs (combined) and Reliance Jio, in India.
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Jha, A. (2024). Exploring the Early Diffusion of Next Generation Mobile Communication Technology: Insights from an Emerging Economy. In: Sharma, S.K., Dwivedi, Y.K., Metri, B., Lal, B., Elbanna, A. (eds) Transfer, Diffusion and Adoption of Next-Generation Digital Technologies. TDIT 2023. IFIP Advances in Information and Communication Technology, vol 698. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-50192-0_28
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